With water security in Western Australia under pressure from climate change and population growth, the Alkimos seawater desalination plant is a vital addition to the state’s supply network. Casing spacers from kwik-ZIP are helping ensure the project’s success with proven performance, flexibility and compliance.
Water security has become a defining issue in Western Australia, where declining rainfall and a growing population are placing increasing stress on supply systems. One of the state’s largest infrastructure projects in response to this challenge is the Alkimos seawater desalination plant, which will eventually supply up to 50 billion litres of clean drinking water annually to millions of Western Australians.
As with any complex project of this scale, materials and equipment must meet the highest standards of performance, safety and longevity. Perth-based company kwik-ZIP is playing a key role in helping deliver this project, with its WSAA-compliant pipe spacers supporting installation quality and asset longevity across critical components.
Proven performance under pressure
Manufactured from high-grade thermoplastic, kwik-ZIP® spacers are designed to endure harsh and variable conditions. They contain no metal parts and offer exceptional chemical resistance, low friction, and abrasion durability, as well as high flexural and temperature tolerance.
Critically for the water industry, all kwik-ZIP products are engineered to comply with Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) Product Specification 324, which governs casing spacers for water applications.
Their versatility across sectors is demonstrated in kwik-ZIP’s extensive product range, which includes the HDXT, HDX, HD, GT and 155 series. Each model is available in different bow or runner heights, providing engineers with the flexibility to manage diverse carrier and casing pipe sizes, as well as changes in project scope or terrain.
Keeping critical infrastructure in place
A Western Australian contractor recently deployed kwik-ZIP’s HDXT-103 spacers with load inserts to support two major installations as part of the Alkimos project. The first involved slip-lining a 914mm Sintakote mild steel cement-lined (MSCL) pipe into a 1,399 mm reinforced concrete jacking pipe, while the second used a 1,422 mm Sintakote MSCL pipe within a 1,708 mm casing for a rail crossing in Yanchep.
In both cases, the HDXT range’s load-sharing design minimised point loading, improving stability and reducing long-term wear. This structural benefit enhances asset reliability throughout the installation’s life cycle, a key priority for public water infrastructure.
Kwik-ZIP’s load inserts enhance weight-bearing performance, particularly in applications subject to elevated temperatures or where uneven pipe pressure is anticipated.
Protecting coatings, enabling performance
The Alkimos installations also highlight how kwik-ZIP products complement other infrastructure materials. The Sintakote® coating used on the MSCL pipes provides corrosion resistance essential to long-term performance. kwik-ZIP spacers feature integrated rubber grip pads that reduce slippage and prevent damage to sensitive coatings, further supporting asset longevity.
These features also simplify installation. kwik-ZIP products require no specialist tools, reducing labour and time on site, an essential consideration for complex or remote worksites like those at Alkimos and Yanchep.
Trusted by utilities across Australia
kwik-ZIP products are approved for use by major utilities including Sydney Water, Water Corporation, South-East Queensland’s Infrastructure and Materials list, and the Melbourne Retail Water Association. In addition, products are certified by the Australian Water Quality Centre for use in contact with potable water.
The company’s industry affiliations reflect a deep commitment to quality and innovation. kwik-ZIP is a member of the Australian Water Association, Water Industry Operators Association of Australia, American Water Works Association, National Ground Water Association, Australasian Corrosion Association, and Australasian Society for Trenchless Technology. It also operates under a QMS ISO 9001-certified quality management system.
Australian innovation with global reach
Headquartered in Perth, kwik-ZIP operates warehouse facilities in Sydney, Texas and the United Kingdom, and maintains established distribution partnerships in Australia, New Zealand, the US and the UK.
As Australia continues to adapt to climate change and rising demand for reliable drinking water, companies like kwik-ZIP are ensuring water infrastructure projects are built for both performance and longevity. With local knowledge, WSAA compliance and international credibility, its products are helping deliver water security where it’s needed most.
For more information, visit kwikzip.com
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