DPI Plastics’ proprietary Ultraflo mPVC pressure pipes were supplied in standard 6 m lengths to the Kapinga Irrigation Project in Zambia, which was established in mid-2013.

The appointed contractor, Inter-Africa Irrigation, selected the Ultraflo range of pressure pipes for the project due to its high-strength characteristics, notes IAIS manager Craig Rawlinson.

“Inter-Africa Irrigation has been making use of Ultraflo mPVC piping at its Zambian irrigation projects, due to the fact that the range boasts higher impact resistance and improved ductility. It also features increased hydraulic capacity and a more reliable performance, when compared to standard PVC piping products,” he states.

DPI Plastics exports manager Rajesh Naval states that the Ultraflo mPVC pipes were supplied to the Kapinga project in diameters ranging between 11 mm to 450 mm. “The pipes supplied to the project are manufactured in accordance with SABS 966 specifications, which guarantees an operating pressure of up to 18 MPa. What’s more, its lighter mass ensures that the Ultraflo range is easier and more cost-effective to transport, which is a major benefit in a remote area such as Kapinga.”

Rawlinson points out that Inter-Africa Irrigation makes use of predominantly locally sourced staff on its Zambia projects. “We have total of about 70 local residents working on the Kapinga project. Sourcing local staff is important, as it leads to job creation and skills development. This leaves a lasting and meaningful impression on the community, together with the new irrigation system.”

According to Rawlinson, the Kapinga project has been running smoothly, with no major challenges encountered to date. “DPI Plastics has proven to be a reliable and trustworthy supplier and that has gone a long way in ensuring that everything remains on schedule. DPI Plastics also boasts a highly competitive cost-to-performance ratio, which is an important aspect in this industry.”

Inter-Africa Irrigation specialises in the supply and installation of full scale solutions for drip, micro-jet and centre pivot irrigation projects in Southern Africa. Rawlinson points out that the company has developed a strong market share in Zambia. “Our high quality workmanship has ensured significant growth in Zambia, an emerging market that holds tremendous promise, due to the high demand for continued infrastructural development.”

Looking to the future, Naval is confident that DPI Plastics will continue to gain measurable market share through its Ultraflo range, particularly within the exports market. “There has been a steady increase in demand for mPVC piping, particularly from emerging African economies such as Zambia, the DRC and Mozambique. DPI Plastics has already established a good reputation in these regions, and is well positioned to satisfy this rise in demand,” he concludes.