gineers at EPC/Design-Build firms have plenty on their minds. Think of all the regulations, potential project delays, cost overruns, contractual disputes, and the constant need to satisfy ever-demanding clients.

It’s about time suppliers come around to make their work lives easier. Enter Helix Steel, which is helping to make things better and easier for EPC/Design-Build firms.

Reinforcement for Duct Banks and Pipe Encasements

You’ve already made the decision to build smarter by encasing your pipes in concrete, which makes new cable installation faster and less expensive. Now it’s time to take the next step.

Our patented micro reinforcement is the perfect concrete reinforcement for below-grade applications. Helix Micro Rebar is a one-inch twisted piece of steel mixed with concrete in a mixer before placement. This innovation can remove up to 100% of your rebar from duct banks, pipe encasements, and many other concrete structures, saving you time, reducing steel, and lowering your project costs..

Why Do Duct Banks and Pipe Encasements Need Reinforced Concrete?

In most cases, concrete provides the most stable and durable environment for keeping pipes and the fragile cables within them safe.

Not only does concrete help prevent extreme cold and hot temperatures from damaging the contents, but it also provides additional strength to the PVC pipes and corrosion resistance.

What does that mean for owners? It results in less maintenance, higher durability and reduced downtime.

How to Install Duct Banks and Pipe Encasements with Concrete (Infused With Helix Micro Rebar)

This task involves surrounding your underground utilities with a layer of concrete, forming a protective barrier that increases the contents’ durability and longevity.

1. Dig the trench
2. Install the PVC pipes and necessary spacers or racks
3. Build the concrete forms
4. Mix Helix Micro Rebar with your concrete (as per the instructions Helix Steel provides)
5. Place the concrete (with the concrete reinforcement)
6. Allow to set
7. Remove the concrete forms
8. Cover the trench

Sure, it’s more complex than this simplified list, but we hope this will help you determine the steps to properly install these systems and ways you can reduce the time it takes to make it happen.

Learn More About Encasing Your Duct Banks and Pipe Encasements

This is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg when it comes to understanding more effective ways to install your below-grade concrete.

And keep in mind that Helix Micro Rebar can be used in these and many more applications, such as slabs, slabs on metal decks, ICF walls, and more. Reach out to our team right now and we’ll help answer any questions you may have.