Collaboration is the most effective way to accomplish more.
There’s an age old adage that says “We’re better together.” There is a lot of truth in this simple message. That said, collaboration is much more than people working together.
Collaboration involves others working jointly, each with their own expertise and taking the intellectual advantage to a higher level. Adding significant value by expanding the capacity of intellectual knowledge.
Collaboration is truly the cornerstone of success in a world of algorithms and emoji’s. It transcends the phrase “let’s work together on this project.” In construction the art of collaboration takes into account, not theory, but more importantly practical experience and hands on expertise. It embodies the art relying on a unique set of skills, perspectives and thoughts from a diverse group of people.
Mastering collaboration allows us to promote innovation, and talk through problem solving in an enhanced way. In short, collaboration drives productivity in an upward direction. Making collaboration, the birthplace of success.
In the world of drainage, it is all about structure. Similar to vertical construction, to withstand the test of time, structural integrity is required.
This is most often achieved using concrete and steel.
But did you know, when you use concrete structures combined with concrete pipe, the end result is one continuous underground structure. Think of the structural integrity that brings with it across the breadth of the system.
This is known as a rigid drainage pipe system as opposed to a flexible drainage system. What are the differences between those two? Rigid systems have structural integrity/support built into the product itself. Whereas flexible pipe systems require some type of external force or pressure. This helps to develop enough structural integrity to withstand a Live Load traversing the system. That external force can be achieved by using a concrete encasement with rebar in systems and we see that in Trench Drains and Slotted Drains.
But how do you achieve structural integrity in flexible pipe. That is indeed more difficult. Some states like Georgia require an aggregate stone encasement, up to one foot above the pipe be installed. In other states, suitable soils can be used “when properly “knifed” into the corrugations along the length of the pipe and then reaching 95% compaction of the backfill encasement.
In simple terms, the success of flexible pipe carrying the live load is directly related to the type of material selected and placement thereof within the backfill envelope. Material selection then becomes the single most important decision in developing a structurally strong backfill envelope.
Structural Integrity Truly matters.
Reinforced Concrete Pipe has passed the test of time. Even so, we test our pipe to make certain it meets the critical criteria it is designed to. Assuring the end user that the structural integrity has been built into our product.
Across the State of Florida, you will find Slotted Drains along FDOT Highways, Interstates and Florida’s Network of International Airports. Why is it so popular you might ask? It is because Linear Drains such as pictured above, move large sheet flow and capture of stormwater run-off. It does so in a very efficient manner. Many Southern States take advantage of this type of drainage product.
Over recent years, there has been an uptick in the use of Slotted Drain as it is easily installed and accommodates a wide variety of projects. No longer being limited to Interstate projects.
Changes in construction methods along with innovative changes in construction materials. Has produced a highly effective product for efficiently moving large amounts of water quickly and effectively.
ATCO (Wayne Atkinson, Inc.) is a leader is storm drainage materials such as Slotted Drain and many other various materials.
Wayne Atkinson is a trusted voice in both Civil and Industrial Construction Industries with more than 30 years of experience.
The Patented Lifting Eye™ offers a safer, more efficient, and uncomplicated solution to handling concrete pipe that is designed to streamline operations and reduce costs.
For years I have said that the “Single Offset Joint” is the single most important change in Reinforced Concrete Pipe in the past 100 years. But that was before I saw the Patented Lifting Eye in person. The Lifting Eye is the first major patent made on concrete pipe since 1849.
Many manufacturers make lift holes in their pipe to help with installation. Ask yourself this question. Why would anyone put a hole in a perfectly good pipe, just to come back and plug it after installation? The very thought of doing so defies common sense!
The other option is pipe with no lifting hole, which has its own issues. Neither a cable nor pipe slings offer a safe work environment and both lead to injuries in the field. Many minor, some deadly.
That said, the Patented Lifting is by far the safest manner to unload, move and install Reinforced Concrete Pipe.
Industrial Manufacturing Facilities Are On The Rise
Over the past two years, ATCO has expanded into Trench Drain Sales for Industrial Manufacturing projects. Pictured in this edition is a one of four mirror image foundations for manufacturing machines to stand upon.
This project consisted of four 143 L/F of 8” 11gg Stainless Steel trench drains. The drains all flow one direction down to a sump basin to be pumped away for treatment. Eleven turns were built in at the plant by Eric’Sons Dura Trench to carry the run-off fluids to the sump. Each section had to be independently welded together. Then checked to make certain there were no leaks.
The total footage of all four trench drain sections is 572 L/F. Eric’Sons Construction Services amazingly installed the entire drainage system in less than five business days.
Yes it can be true. Lightening does strike twice. Not often but when it does, it is something to see.
ATCO and Design Precast & Pipe have reached an agreement whereby ATCO now represents DPPI for Concrete Pipe & Modular Bridge sales in Alabama, North Mississippi, Tennessee and the Florida Panhandle.
This same territory was my first territory for Quality Culvert/County Materials prior to becoming their Southern Region Sales Manager. It is a great territory, filled with great customers and thankfully I was very successful while venturing into the world of RCP for the first time in late 2009. I owe that to my customers, not my talent.
A looming non-compete entered into while employed within the State of Alabama kept me away for several years. To say I am excited to return would be an understatement.
Modular Bridge Components for a Mississippi Bridge
Not only do I have a second opportunity in the same territory; I have the honor and privilege of doing that with my life partner Belinda Atkinson. Together along with Don Carlos we operate ATCO. A manufacturer representative company, excelling in Storm Drainage Materials.
ATCO covers, Georgia, Florida, Alabama, North Mississippi,Tennessee and help out in Texas as well. Making us an ALL SEC TEAM.
Since 1565 St. Augustine, FL has been leading the way in America. Our Nations oldest continually inhabited city.
History truly does matter. Through history we learn from our mistakes. Improving that which we do. This allows us to not make the same mistakes over and over. Unless of course, we do not pay attention to lessons learned.
I have written before about the evolution of Reinforced Concrete Pipe (RCP) that has taken place over the past 2000 years, when Rome built it’s aqua-duct system. Much of which is still in use today. Not only is that historical; it has indeed proven to be “Sustainable.
In our world today, “Sustainability” is the buzz word of the day. We think we have discovered something new. But our forefathers knew and understood it as well. That is not to say we should not continue on that path. We should and do. Which makes history so great! We see what works and what did not. This is the very reason RCP has continued to improve over time. For instance, the steel cage was introduced to transfer the live load through the concrete pipe walls to the Foundation beneath the pipe, used for support. In our industry we call this Rigid Pipe as opposed to a Flexible Pipe System. The details of the comparisons of the two systems is a lesson for another day.
We create history every day for others to enjoy
In the infrastructure world, we are continually building. The intent and purpose of the vast majority of projects, is not temporary, but meant to last for future generations to use and enjoy. Which is why I support the manufacturers we represent every day. RCP, Trench Drain, Slotted Drain and Fabricated Pipe are all used for one purpose. Improving the lives and safety of others. It is mostly out of site and more often than not, out of mind. But it is there, part of the infrastructure fabric and foundation of American Life. Much like the Castillo de San Marcos. Nearly 500 years later, it is still open to the public to view, enjoy and learn about our history. I am sure the builders has sustainability in mind when they built this majestic Masonry Structure.
Plastic has always leached into the water it carries.
The biggest “Nothing Burger” of today is the myth that somehow plastic leaching from a water bottle into the water is something we have just learned. The argument was first made when bottled water first became popular.
Is it true? Yes of course. However, to be of consequence, the parts per million would need to be extraordinarily high. They are not. So, no harm, no foul. The interesting thing to me is that the brilliant people that do these studies have their minds already made up from the beginning. They never stop to realize that the majority of municipal pipelines around the world are made of plastic pipe. Pipe which, for the most part and especially here in the States, has already gone through rigorous testing for public safety use. I have sold literally millions of linear feet of it throughout my career. Totaling multiple millions of dollars. Plastic pipe is safe. A viable and very safe conduit to carry water from point A to pint B. Isn’t that the purpose of bottled water too?
The real question is whether or not all types of pipe are equal. Water mains leak. There is no doubt about it. I spent many nights, holidays and weekends on call at Macon Water Authority working with the leak repair crew year after year. MWA is an underground system of cement lined Ductile Iron Pipe (DIP). In my opinion the optimal pipe for creating a system having an extended life cycle when properly maintained. I know my PVC pipe friends will disagree with me. That is okay. But here is my hands on experience in the field. MWA has been an Iron Pipe system since changing from wooden water mains to cement mains, then to asbestos-cement pipe. The latter leachate will literally kill you. It was 99% fully integrated to Iron Pipe when I joined the MWA Team in 1983. In the early 90’s we took over a failing private system out in the County (Bibb County, GA) on Lake Tobesofkee. It was a 100% PVC Pipe System. From the very first week we quickly learned why they were financially distraught. Our repair crew was spending all day, every day moving from leak to leak. All too often they would get back in town, just to turn around and go back out there. Needless to say, tempers were flaring about as fast as the leaks were appearing. By now you’ve probably guessed it. We changed out every linear foot to Ductile Iron Pipe. Problem solved. From that day to the day I left we never made another repair out there.
After forty years working in one industry, I am more than thoroughly convinced. If a municipality can afford the cost of an all Ductile Iron System, that is the way to go. If not, PVC is a very viable and safe option. It’s not a Lincoln; but it just might be a Cadillac. Depending on your point of view.
Water is Life! Drink lots of it. Live long and prosper.
Known for our work in the Civil, Heavy Civil and Municipal Water Works Industry; ATCO has opened a new chapter.
Over the past year we have been fortunate to win several Industrial Projects. Gulfstream Aerospace being the largest by far. These are indeed exciting times.
Effective August 1st, 2023 we became heavily invested in Industrial and Heavy Industrial projects. Does that mean we have left our roots? No, not at all. Through the years a large portion of the projects we participated in were WTP & WWTP projects. They are my personal favorite and fall well within our scope of work still.
Macon Water Authority is where I learned the Water Works Industry.
Over the past three years, Eric’Sons Dura Trench has opened doors that have significantly broadened our horizons. They challenged us to expand into the Industrial Marketplace. We have stepped forward with great expectations, having already experienced success beyond our dreams. We now cover six states for Dura Trench sales.
Utility Trench comes with built in Strut, arriving ready to install.
Lest us know how we can help with your next project. Reachable at: Wayne@wayneatkinson-inc.com
We work closely with key components of the project design industry.
Atco Water Works Representing Quality Water Works Manufacturing
Once plans and designs have been completed, we take the next step and do the takeoffs for our clients.
From start to finish our goal is to work closely with each phase of construction in the life cycle of a project.
ATCO covers the Southeast supporting Municipal Water Works Projects.
Water Treatment Plants Waste Water Treatment Plants Reclaimed Water Treatment Plants Industrial Manufacturing Plants Industrial Process Plants Civil Highway Projects
If you need Trench Drain, Slotted Pipe, Pipe Spports and Hangers, Hydrants, Flap Check Valves, Duckbill Check Valves, RCP or RCP Pipe End Treatment & Connectors, then Atco Water Works has you covered.
The State of Georgia has made a deliberate move to become a major manufacturing hub for the Electric Vehicle Automotive Industry. If a business has a connection to the EV industry, they are finding a way to play a part in the Georgia Economy.
Rivian EV Truck
Since 2020, the Georgia Department of Economic Development has made a concerted effort to bring EV manufacturing and supporting jobs to Georgia. According to a recent article in “Georgia Trend Magazine” all-in the effort will produce “close to 18,000 jobs.”
The Electric Vehicle Industry revolves around focusing on renewable energy, energy conversion, turning cow manure into hydrogen powered electricity, re-use products and recycled products. The residual business from these evolving industries will have a long lasting impact for Georgia Economic Development moving forward.
In addition, the Georgia Port Authority has ramped up import capabilities to support needed raw material deliveries to sustain this and many other industries. A key component of which will be lithium-ion. Along with that, the GPA will also receive much needed components such as anodes and cathodes. In Bryan County, just outside Savannah, 750 Acres are currently under development for transportation logistical improvements. These actions are making preparation for future growth among the EV and other rising markets. Needless to say, Georgia is on the move with major growth in manufacturing.
18 Major Manufacturer’s now focusing their EV efforts in Georgia. Information Credit – Georgia Trends Magazine, August 2022
Team ATCO is actively participating in projects that help push these projects forward. We have completed one project in Americus, Sumter County Georgia. Where we provided the RCP storm drainage pipe and the Fusible HDPE Pipe for Methane Conversion facility. In Savannah Georgia, we have furnished Slot Drainage Pipe, by DuraTrench, for storm water conveyance on the Georgia Port Authority, CB-1 Project.
We have many Georgia projects in various stages of development. That also helps promote sustainability and directly help improve the Electric Vehicle developing economy in Georgia.
Governor Kemp and his Economic Development teams spread across the State have put Georgia in a strong position to win for many years to come.
Manufacturing Representatives“True Radius Trench Drain” | Met Life, Atlanta GAWe will do the takeoffs for you!Let us help you with projects designs.REACHABLE @ 904-738-5146
That is a great question. There is an obvious answer. But it often depends on who you ask. In fact it’s similar to the phrase “beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” That is to say, it’s how you look at it.
So what is the common denominator? From my perspective it’s storm drainage. Others may see something else. The moving flow of stormwater has to go somewhere. Trench and slot drains are valuable tools for moving large volumes of water rapidly. They terminate into larger drainage parts of civil drainage systems.
My grandfather. M. E. Atkinson was a GC. He built schools, hospitals and churches. At the same time he was also one of the Premier Nurseryman in Georgia during his day. So much so that he sold Pike Nurseries “on credit” to help them get started in Mr. Pikes early days. He also sold Green Brothers all of their bedding plants and vegetable plants. Mr. Lamar & Mr. Lanier Green were great customers of ours and always friendly.
One of Atlanta’s Great BusinessGreen Bros. Nurseries was one of our largest accounts in the ‘70s and ‘80s.
When I worked for my Grandfather during my college years at Gordon State College, I delivered daily to Green locations and twice a week to Pike Nurseries. So my roots run very deep in the industry.
Todays landscaping has changed dramatically and especially of late. Now we are able to design projects that are aesthetically beautiful. Often radius trench drains are a large part of these modern projects. Incorporating drainage, such as trench drains, tied together the sections of a particular projects having both Civil and Landscape design elements in them. That’s the answer to the question. The intersection is drainage.
This radius trench drain goes together with a bell and spigot design. As you can easily see, no miters were needed to complete the transition around the turn.
When it comes to Storm Drainage Materials in the Southeast, our aim is to help you. However and whenever we can do so, we are happy to assist.
Wayne Atkinson, Inc. 