Composite mix design in the production of asbestos/cement pipes

A mathematical model is presented for the determination of optimal mix of asbestos fibres to satisfy a set of desired pipe properties which vary with pipe size, class, and material availability. The approach utilizes a linear/separable programming model which is aimed at minimizing the total cost of fibres used. The fibre properties, such as reinforcing strength, processability, and length as well as cost and stocks available are taken into account in the model. Also represented are the profile of the ideal mix relative to the required composite strength, processability, and ‘dust content’. Asbestos mixes designed using the model have been implemented in the production of asbestos/cement pipes in one of the asbestos/cement pipe manufacturing plants in the Gulf area. Optimum model mixes have demonstrated significant technical and economic merits over the conventionally designed mixes.