TPI July 2012

business & market news

Plastics pipes group appoints new director The Plastics Pipes Group (PPG) of the British Plastics Federation has appointed Caroline Ayres as its new director, following the retirement of Frank Jones at the end of 2012. Frank had been director since 1993 and will remain as a consultant to the PPG. plastics piping systems at all levels. Plastic pipes play a vital role in the infrastructure of this country and I am proud to be representing such a vital, responsible and sustainable industry.”

of plastic pipes compared with other alternative materials. Plastic pipes provide a sustainable and safe way to distribute valuable drinking water and provide modern sewer systems. Their environmental contribution to public health and sanitation is unique. Moreover, their long service life followed by recycling guarantees a high level of sustainability for many hundreds of years. “Newapplications in the field of rainwater harvesting and management, storm water drainage, domestic grey water systems, district heating and domestic geothermal technology are also helping to create a more sustainable world. “The future will bring many challenges for PPG members, not least meeting future UK and European legislative requirements. The Construction Products Directive has been replaced by the Construction Products Regulation, coming into effect July 2013. This will lead to compulsory CE marking for our products and the European Standards writing committees are well underway in producing the necessary harmonised standards. Meeting the requirements of CE marking and educating the market regarding their meaning will be crucial to PPG members.” british Plastics Federation – UK reception@bpf.co.uk www.bpf.co.uk

Prior to the PPG Caroline worked for the BBA, and before that for British Gas Research and Development. She is chair of the BSI committee for non- pressure plastic piping systems and sits on many BSI and other technical committees. Her appointment coincides with the appointment of a new PPG president. Martin Gisbourne (utilities and industry director of Aliaxis UK) has taken over from Glen Sabin (MD Polypipe Civils) in this important role. The plastics pipes industry is situated to face the challenges of the 21 st century. It is estimated that plastics now account for over 54% of all new installations in the UK and the market share is growing. In 2011, the estimated combined turnover of the UK manufacturers of plastics piping systems was £750mn, and the industry employs in excess of 8,000 people. Caroline Ayres said, “The sustainable credentials of plastic pipes have been proven in studies by The European Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (TEPPFA). The results of these studies highlight the sustainable characteristics

Caroline Ayres

Caroline has been working for the PPG as standards and technical manager for ten years. Commenting on her new role, she said, “I am delighted to be appointed as the new director. The PPG has been representing UK manufacturers of plastic pipes since 1962 and will continue to promote the development, acceptance and usage of manufactured

Changes to Plymouth leadership team David Barnes has been appointed to the newly created role of chief operating officer of Plymouth Tube Company. Mr Barnes previously served as vice president of finance and administration for the company. Prior to joining Plymouth, Mr Barnes’ career in the metals industry spanned 30 years including finance and operations. In his new role Mr Barnes will have responsibility for the day-to- day operations of Plymouth. CEO. The change allows Mr Van Pelt to focus on broader strategic issues essential to the company’s long-term growth and success. In a statement to employees, Mr Van Pelt said, “I am excited about this evolution in our leadership team. We have a number of challenges and opportunities ahead of us, and this change will better position us to meet those challenges, ensuring our future success to the benefit of our customers, employees, shareholders, and the markets we serve.”

the steel tubing industry since 1924. Currently headquartered in suburban Chicago with 11 manufacturing mills across the US, Plymouth is a global supplier of carbon alloy, nickel alloy and stainless steel tubing for mechanical, pressure, boiler and hydraulic applications. Steel, nickel and titanium extruded and cold drawn shapes are produced by Plymouth Engineered Shapes. Plymouth Tube company – USA info@plymouth.com www.plymouth.com

Donald Van Pelt, Jr retains the title and responsibilities of president and

Plymouth Tube Company has served

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Tube ProducTs InTernaTIonal July 2012

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