SeaDrain White – the thermoplastic black and grey water drainage system with two jointing technologies

The polypropylene drainage piping system is lighter in weight, lighter on maintenance requirements, lighter on installation time and labor, and lighter in lifetime system costs than competing metal systems. SeaDrain White is a paint- and corrosion-free system and was introduced to the market in 2020. Since it's market introduction, GF Piping Systems has collected customer feedback and has used the past months to further optimize SeaDrain White for the customer's needs. 

The SeaDrain White grey and black water system is suitable for any type of ship, but it is particularly popular in the passenger sector. The system's unique material and color properties make it ideal for installations on cruise ships, passenger ferries and luxury yachts, both in a new build or a retrofit. As a plastic piping system, the solution offers many benefits compared to traditional metal systems and has a long, maintenance-free service life. The installation is simplified thanks to lightweight components, a low demand for pipe clamps, and the flexibility of two easy jointing technologies: It is the first drainage system for black and grey water that can be installed either with mechanical or welded connections. Both methods facilitate a simple and fast installation without welding work. The SeaDrain White piping system is developed and produced in the USA and has been approved for use by ABS, DNV, Lloyds Register and RINA. In addition, it is NSF-certified.

SeaDrain is made of a light, flexible, strong, and corrosion-free high-performance polymer. The bright white color contains additives for UV resistance against discoloration, negating the need for external paint. The result is an appealing aesthetic that simultaneously reduces installation times – which can also lead to significant cost savings in applications such as installing 8km of balcony piping on a cruise ship.

“Over the past years, we have taken the time to evolve our drainage system”, comments SeaDrain White Product Manager Benjamin Levie. “Together with our customers, we were able to considerably improve the quality and the handling. We are very grateful for the support our customers offer, as they contribute to the success of GF Piping Systems and help us to strengthen our position as a provider of complete piping solutions. Our customizable product offering including pipes, fittings, valves, tools, and services simplifies the planning and installation process for shipbuilders around the world”, Levie believes. 

Working towards a more sustainable maritime industry

Traditionally, many pipes onboard ships have been made of either steel or metal. The drawbacks of these materials are their high weight and susceptibility to corrosion. “Plastic pipes, on the other hand, are a win-win for the maritime industry”, explains Roberto Chiesa, Head of Business Development Marine at GF Piping Systems. “Due to their material properties, they are not only faster and cheaper to install and maintain, but also make ships more energy efficient. After 30 years in the maritime industry, we are very aware that we need to protect our oceans and our climate moving forward. I believe that plastic piping systems as part of a holistic strategy can play an important role in achieving these goals and create connections for life”, Chiesa adds.

SeaDrain is an important component to make shipbuilding more sustainable. As a corrosion-free drainage system, it offers a simplified installation, weight savings, and a longer service life – combined with a paint-free and UV resistant plastic solution. It is sustainability dressed in white.

Meet GF Piping Systems at Nor-Shipping 2023 from 6 to 9 June in Oslo, Norway, at booth D01-08.