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Conductive GRE Pipes

Conductive GRE pipes are specialized fiberglass-reinforced epoxy lines engineered to safely convey flammable, non-conductive fluids by dissipating static electricity. They contain co-mingled conductive fibers (typically carbon with glass) throughout the wall, providing through-wall conductivity. This design prevents charge build-up when pumping fuels or solvents, substantially reducing ignition risk in oil & gas, aviation fuel, chemical and petrochemical systems. The pipes maintain the core benefits of GRE (lightweight, corrosion-resistant, high-strength) while adding an integrated static-dissipative function. Conductive GRE systems are often used in jet fuel and aviation fuel piping (military specs), bulk hydrocarbon handling, and high-purity chemical lines where grounding is critical.

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Key Features

  • Conductive Filaments: High-strength carbon/glass composite fibers woven into the laminate provide uniform electrical conductivity.
  • Integrated Grounding: Inner-to-outer and end-to-end electrical continuity allows easy grounding of the pipe system.
  • Corrosion Resistance: Inherits GRE’s excellent resistance to acids, salts, and fuels, with no risk of metal corrosion.
  • Lightweight and Durable: Easier to install than metal. Suitable for buried or aboveground use without risk of electrochemical corrosion.
  • High Temperature Rating: Uses aromatic-amine-cured epoxy for toughness and heat resistance (typically up to ~100–120°C).
  • Reliable Jointing: Compatible with standard GRE couplings and flanges (but typically grounded at joints).

Benefits

  • Enhanced Safety: Prevents dangerous static sparks in volatile environments, meeting electrical dissipation safety codes.
  • No External Bond Wires Needed: Unlike plastic pipes that require external bonding, conductivity is built-in, simplifying installation.
  • Lower Maintenance: No corrosion or coating to maintain, and static-dissipative layer won’t wear off like a metal liner.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Often required or recommended by NFPA and API for fuel systems (e.g. MIL-P-29206A for jet fuel).
  • Versatility: Can replace metallic piping in hazardous areas, reducing risk of galvanic corrosion while ensuring ESD protection.

Applications

  • Jet Fuel and Aviation Fuel Systems: Primary lines and hydrant systems at airports or military bases.
  • Fuel Terminals and Depots: Fuel storage and transfer lines, where static discharge is a concern.
  • Chemical Processing: Handling of solvents, corrosive chemicals and any process where static ignition is hazardous.
  • Pharmaceutical & Electronics: High-purity lines where static must be controlled, but metallic pipes are not preferred.
  • Offshore Petrochemical: Bulk fluid transfer on platforms (e.g. jet fuel, kerosene) requiring both corrosion resistance and static safety.

Technical Specifications (Typical)

  • Material: Filament-wound GRE with co-mingled carbon/glass fiber
  • Size Range: Typically 1″–16″ (25–400 mm) inner diameter
  • Pressure Rating: Up to ~230 psi (16 bar) depending on diameter
  • Electrical Conductivity: End-to-end <105 ohm (groundable) when grounded
  • Operating Temperature: Up to ~200°F (93°C) (carbon-filled epoxy)
  • Standards: Designed per API 15LR / ISO 14692; MIL-P-29206A compliance for jet fuel

Unique Selling Points (USPs)

  • Integrated Static Safety: Combines corrosion-resistant GRE with ESD protection in one product.
  • Global Recognition: Bondstrand™ 7000 (and equivalents) have a long history in military and fuel installations.
  • Proven Performance: Certified for jet fuel service; eliminates common static-hazard mitigations (e.g. conductive paint or wires).
  • Seamless System: Comes complete with conductive flanges, fittings and adhesive couplings designed for groundability.
  • Custom Solutions: Can be supplied with lined or unlined options to meet purity requirements while retaining conductivity.