Benefits of Vinyl Sheet Pile
While many are familiar with the highly-common steel sheet pile, other sheet pile material options such as vinyl, concrete, and wood are also available. Because sheet pile is used for a wide variety of applications, there are many factors that go into choosing which type of piling material is best suited for your project. While steel sheet pile is much more mainstream than its vinyl counterpart, vinyl sheet piling has many unique benefits.
AVAILABILITY
Vinyl sheet piling is relatively new in comparison to other application types, as it came on the market in the 1990s. It is made of modified PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and is usually manufactured by general extrusion, where it is melted and pushed through a die. Because of its material makeup, vinyl sheet piling is relatively inexpensive in comparison to its counterparts. In addition, vinyl sheet piling can be manufactured in multiple configurations, similar to steel and metal piling. The most common shape of vinyl sheet pile is the Z-sheet, which has male and female interlockings similar to those of other material. Vinyl sheets come in a variety of other shapes, with corner pieces and intersection pieces offered as well.
BENEFITS
Because of its makeup, vinyl sheet piling is most sufficient for marine applications such as sea walls, flood control, and bulkheads. In comparison to its alternatives, vinyl sheet piling is the most corrosion-resistant and is said to have the longest service life. Some manufacturers even claim that their vinyl sheet pile products will last over 50 years. Steel sheet piling is greatly influenced by corrosion from moisture, saline, and pollution, and may require routine maintenance and protective coatings which becomes expensive over time. In contrary, vinyl sheet piling is unaffected by the marine borers (crustaceans, mollusks, etc.) that are attracted to other material options. Considering its longevity and durability, vinyl sheet piling is extremely cost efficient and provides great value for its cost.
DISADVANTAGES
The major downfall of using vinyl sheet piling is its lack of strength in comparison to steel alternatives. Because of this, vinyl sheet piling is best used for marine applications that do not require as deep of foundations, such as seawalls and bulkheads. Therefore, it is important that the required material strength is considered when planning for a project. In addition, because of steel sheet pile’s popularity, there is more availability in the used material market. As vinyl sheet pile grows in demand over time, more used options will become available.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Overall, vinyl sheet pile is a considerable option for your next marine construction project. It boasts great cost value, a long service life, and a corrosion-resistant makeup. These unique benefits can be of great benefit to your next project!
BUY AND SELL WITH EIFFEL TRADING
Looking for used or surplus material for an upcoming project? Check out our selection of used and surplus sheet pile, used access trestle, used crane mats, and so much more. In addition, our online marketplace has a wide variety of used equipment, including various types of trucks, push boats, and ringer cranes.
All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing for free.
Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today for free on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.
If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.