FIBERGLASS CONDUIT PROVIDES NATURAL FLEXIBILITY THAT GUIDES AN EFFICIENT ASTRODOME INSTALLATION The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLS&R) was seeking to power up in preparation for its annual event. Specifically, the organization was amping up power for the carnival midway area. HLS&R needed to install and provide power for 4 1500 KVA 3 phase transformers inside the Astrodome. The conduit runs had to be placed throughout the facility with junction boxes to supply power to the transformers. CHALLENGE The job had originally been specified for GRC. GRC conduit offers mechanical strength but installation takes longer due to its heavy weight. Not only are the materials heavy and more expensive the installation typically takes longer making it costlier. SOLUTION A project leadership transition brought forth a new engineer who was looking to save time and money and Champion Fiberglass® conduit was just the solution. Collaboration ensued among the contractor, Pieper-Houston Electric’s BIM team, and Champion Fiberglass to map out the project. Pulling forces were figured, then wire and conduit were ordered RESULTS Champion Duct® was delivered on time. Approximately three thousand feet of 5-inch fiberglass conduit and elbows were installed throughout the Astrodome concourse level. Fiberglass Clevis hangers, beam clamps and all-threaded rods held the conduit every 8 feet. One interesting part of this job was the natural flexibility of the fiberglass conduit allowing coverage of a 140-degree bend in the installation along the curvature of the concourse. A mechanical bend was not needed. This was significant because it reduced the pulling tension. The reduction in tension helped labor progress more easily and safely. This was the first fiberglass conduit project for Jacobs Engineering and Pieper-Houston Electric, and the engineers and contractor were impressed. Rep agency JD Martin initiated this project and was present and helpful throughout installation. The job came together very quickly and Champion Fiberglass conduit exceeded expectations in product quality, service and installation. Significant time and money in installation and materials were saved over GRC. RESULTS Champion Duct® was delivered on time. Approximately three thousand feet of 5-inch fiberglass conduit and elbows were installed throughout the Astrodome concourse level. Fiberglass Clevis hangers, beam clamps and all-threaded rods held the conduit every 8 feet. One interesting part of this job was the natural flexibility of the fiberglass conduit allowing coverage of a 140-degree bend in the installation along the curvature of the concourse. A mechanical bend was not needed. This was significant because it reduced the pulling tension. The reduction in tension helped labor progress more easily and safely. This was the first fiberglass conduit project for Jacobs Engineering and Pieper-Houston Electric, and the engineers and contractor were impressed. The job came together very quickly and Champion Fiberglass conduit exceeded expectations in product quality, service and installation. Significant time and money in installation and materials were saved over GRC. Application: