A field-friendly rigid composite coupler for GRP pipes

GRP pipes are widely used in applications that impose special requirements on the materials used, such as resistance against corrosive media and light weight. Of special importance in the field of GRP pipes is the development of a reliable and installation-friendly coupling method. A new adhesive type joint is presented which eliminates the occurrence of certain installation deficiencies common with existing coupler types. In this paper the different stages in the design of a suitable coupler concept are presented.