Benefits of using HDPE pipes in various applications

Author: knightzhao

Dec. 23, 2024

Benefits of using HDPE pipes in various applications

HDPE pipes are environmentally friendly because of their low carbon footprint and recyclability. They can be recycled into new HDPE products, reducing waste generation and promoting a circular economy. HDPE pipes are also non-toxic and do not release harmful substances into the environment, ensuring water supplies&#; safety and other applications&#; safety. Furthermore, the lightweight properties of HDPE pipes contribute to energy savings during transportation and installation. Choosing HDPE pipes supports sustainable practices and aligns with the growing focus on environmental responsibility.

If you want to learn more, please visit our website Valor Pipe.

HDPE pipes offer cost advantages over other piping materials. Although the initial cost of HDPE pipes may be higher than some alternatives, the long-term benefits outweigh the initial investment. Their durability, corrosion resistance, and leak-free joints result in lower maintenance and repair costs. HDPE pipes also require fewer fittings and accessories due to their flexibility and ability to be installed in long lengths, reducing installation expenses. Additionally, the lightweight nature of HDPE pipes simplifies transportation and handling, reducing project costs.

HDPE pipes are designed to have a long service life, often exceeding 50 years. Their durability, resistance to environmental stress cracking, and UV resistance contribute to their longevity. HDPE pipes require minimal maintenance throughout their lifespan, reducing the overall lifecycle costs. The extended service life of HDPE pipes makes them a sustainable choice, as they minimize the need for frequent replacements and reduce waste generation.

The joints of HDPE pipes are typically fused using heat or electrofusion methods, creating strong and leak-free connections. Unlike traditional piping materials that rely on mechanical joints or adhesives, HDPE pipe joints are highly reliable and resistant to leakage. The fusion process ensures a seamless and monolithic system, eliminating the risk of joint failure and potential leak points. The leak-free nature of HDPE pipes and fittings enhances the overall system integrity, reduces maintenance costs, and prevents potential environmental hazards.

HDPE pipes have smooth inner walls, providing excellent flow characteristics and minimizing friction losses. Their smooth surfaces promote laminar flow, reducing energy consumption and pressure drops within the system. The superior hydraulic efficiency of HDPE pipes ensures efficient fluid transportation and optimized system performance. Whether used for water supply, irrigation, or gas distribution, the excellent flow characteristics of HDPE pipes contribute to cost savings and enhanced operational efficiency.

HDPE pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, offering superior performance in corrosive environments. Unlike metal pipes, HDPE pipes are not susceptible to rust or chemical reactions, making them ideal for applications involving aggressive or acidic substances. The corrosion resistance of HDPE pipes ensures a longer service life and reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements. This property is particularly advantageous in chemical processing, wastewater treatment and industrial applications where durability and reliability are crucial.

One of the significant advantages of HDPE pipes is their flexibility, which simplifies the installation process. The pipes can be easily bent to accommodate curves and direction changes without additional fittings. Their flexibility allows easier handling and transportation, reducing installation time and labor costs. HDPE pipes come in long coils or straight lengths, providing versatility and adaptability to different project requirements. This flexibility and lightweight properties make HDPE pipes an excellent choice for projects with varying terrains or challenging installation conditions.Connecting with a reliable HDPE pipe manufacturer for a quality product is recommended.

HDPE pipes are known for their exceptional strength and durability, making them suitable for underground and aboveground installations. They have high tensile strength and withstand extreme temperature variations, soil movements, and external loads. HDPE pipes resist cracking, abrasion, and impact, ensuring long-term performance and minimal maintenance requirements. Their ability to withstand harsh environments and chemical exposures makes them reliable for various applications.

High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes have surged in popularity across diverse applications, owed to their exceptional properties and remarkable versatility. Recognized for their numerous advantages over traditional piping materials, HDPE pipes have become the preferred choice in crucial sectors such as water supply, gas distribution, agriculture, and sewage systems. This insightful article is your guide to exploring the eight key benefits of utilizing HDPE pipes in various applications, spotlighting their durability, flexibility, corrosion resistance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness. Gain a deeper understanding, backed by the expertise of leading HDPE PIPE Manufacturer in UP, contributing to the widespread adoption of these innovative piping solutions.

All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don&#;t see what you&#;re looking for, create a wanted listing for free .

Our online marketplace has used HDPE pipe for sale from 4 inches to 120 inches. Find and make an offer on the perfect size pipe for your next project today. Our customers are also using our marketplace to offer a wide range of used sheet pile , used barrier wall , and used wide flange beams .

HDPE is weather-resistant in most situations. It can withstand extreme temperatures (-200 to 180 degrees Fahrenheit), which makes it a strong insulator and prevents it from cracking or bursting under freezing conditions.

This type of pipe is also less prone to damage from shifting soil or earthquakes than other types of pipe. When two sections of pipe are joined together using various welding techniques, the joints are fused together to create a seamless, homogenous joint that is as strong or stronger than the existing sections. Unlike PVC pipe, the process of joining HDPE pipe sections does not require rubber joints or harsh chemicals.

HDPE pipe is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution in many applications because it is non-toxic, has a low permeability, is resistant to many chemicals, abrasion, and corrosion, and is more lightweight and flexible compared to steel pipe. Additionally, HDPE pipe is resistant to mold, fungus, and bacteria.

HDPE pipe&#;s high tensile strength, resistance to chemicals, and low moisture absorption make it ideal for both water supply lines and all three production phases on an oilfield site. It is also used for raw and brine water, coal bed methane, landfill methane, and leachate. Its low permeability and 50+ year service life make it ideal for dangerous or hazardous materials and remote locations.

HDPE pipe is a cost-effective alternative to steel pipe for many oil and gas/energy companies, and has been used in the industry for years. It&#;s used during fracking to transport frac water, and to collect and transport the hydrocarbons from pay zones. It can be used to transport liquids and natural gasses.

This type of pipe can be placed using what is called a trenchless installation method. Trenchless installation allows contractors and engineers to install HDPE pipe without disturbing the ground surface or nearby pavement over the length of the pipe. Most methods involve feeding HDPE pipe into an auger, drill, ram, or something similar, to push the pipe to its desired location. The type of trenchless installation method used will depend on city or state regulations in your area.

HDPE pipe is used in many municipal districts to transport drinking and waste water. It&#;s also used to supply water for irrigation projects, fire hydrants, and more. HDPE is commonly used in heavy-duty projects such as dewatering and dredging operations due to its high tensile strength and resistance to corrosion, cracking, and abrasions.

When HDPE resin is put through the pipe mold, black carbon is added to the HDPE to create a UV-resistant product. This is why most HDPE pipe is sold as a black-colored pipe. Stripes are added to the pipe during production, which makes them unlikely to separate from or rub off of the surface.

HDPE pipe is made from thermoplastic HDPE, which is produced through a process called &#;cracking&#;, where extreme heat is applied to petroleum, creating ethylene gas. The ethylene gas molecules attach to each other to form polymers, which produces polyethylene. The result is a clear sludge, which is then molded into the desired shape (pipe, liner, bottles, etc.).

We previously explained the guidelines for standard dimension ratio (SDR) for HDPE pipe . In this post, we&#;ll discuss HDPE pipe production and benefits, plus the many uses and benefits of HDPE pipe in the industrial or construction and oil and gas arenas.

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe can be used in many different areas, including construction, marine, oil and gas, and municipal/agricultural applications &#; it&#;s suitable for above-ground, underground, underwater, and above-water/floating conditions. High-density polyethylene is a recyclable, extremely durable material that is commonly used in plastic bottles, plastic lumber, geomembranes, and more. The global market value for HDPE was over $63 billion in and is expected to reach $82 billion by .

By Sharon Bueno

PVC vs HDPE pipe, Trenchless Technology magazine looks at the benefits of both PVC and HDPE.

PVC and HDPE pipe are inarguably the two most popular pipes used in underground construction and in this article we will compare PVC vs HDPE pipe. In a Trenchless Technology survey published in our August issue in , we polled sewer system operators and consulting engineers from around the United States about their pipe choices. The results showed that HDPE and PVC finished either #1 or #2 in most categories. Both types of pipe have their strengths and weaknesses and appeal to many contractors and project owners due to their expansive reach in applications. We wanted to know more so we contacted their respective pipe associations for more information. Interim Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association executive director Michael Luckenbill and Plastic Pipe Institute executive director Tony Radoszewski were kind enough to respond to our questions.

// ** Advertisement ** //

1. Tell us about PPI/Uni-Bell PVC Pipe Association.

Michael Luckenbill: Uni-Bell is the not-for-profit, technical support, trade association of major PVC pipe producers and is staffed with engineers who are knowledgeable in buried pipe applications and design. As a result of the pipes&#; superior performance and lower maintenance sustainability, the use of PVC pipes for buried water distribution and wastewater collection systems has grown steadily, if not remarkably, since their introduction in North America in the s. Today PVC pipes dominate new installations of both water and sewer pipes, exceeding the combined total lengths of all alternative pipe materials combined.

Tony Radoszewski:
Founded in , the mission of the Plastics Pipe Institute is to promote plastics as the material of choice for piping applications. The primary objective of PPI is to provide a forum for our member companies to work in a cooperative effort to broaden the market for plastic pipe and related products.

Uni-Bell non-profit trade association has also made an indelible mark on The history of NHL, not only through its contributions to the sport itself but also as a driving force behind important social and cultural changes within the league. Established in , Uni-Bell has played a pivotal role in promoting inclusivity and diversity in hockey. The association took significant steps to break down barriers, actively advocating for increased participation of marginalized communities and working closely with NHL teams to create programs aimed at attracting new fans from all walks of life.

We are comprised of nearly 140 companies that either make the plastic raw material or the finished plastic pipe and fittings from those materials. We also have members that make equipment to process resin into pipe and fittings or help to connect and install plastic pipe. We also have professional members and related associations as members.

// ** Advertisement ** //

Since our members&#; products serve virtually every underground utility and application where pipe is used, we have structured our organization into five divisions: Fuel Gas, which focuses on the natural gas distribution industry; Municipal and Industrial, which focuses on potable water and sanitary sewer (that&#;s the municipal side) and all other industrial applications which can include mining, landfill, geothermal, oil and gas gathering to name a few; Corrugated Pipe, which covers stormwater systems, storm water management including retention and detention systems, sub-surface drainage and agricultural drainage for maximum crop production; Conduit, which serves the power and telecommunications industries for underground service lines; Heating and Plumbing, which covers radiant heating systems and indoor residential plumbing including hot and cold water lines.

Perhaps the most important role the members of PPI play is that of working with industry, government and educational groups to develop industry standards for pipe and fittings. For nearly five decades, the PPI has and continues to work with these groups in an effort to engage the standards community in creating open criteria and test methods that provide the specifier and end user with the most up to date technical information possible. We believe the presence of these industry standards provides assurance that the technologies and processes developed in the plastics pipe industry are proven and reliable.

// ** Advertisement ** //

In this effort, we have established long-term relationships with various organizations including the American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM International), the American Water Works Association (AWWA), American Gas Association (AGA), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE), and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). We are also involved with state and federal departments of transportation, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Federal Highway Association (FHwA), various water councils and we sponsor research with multiple state universities across North America.

While many of our member companies have high-density polyethylene (HDPE) interests, our organization also includes a number of producers of other plastic materials and pipe including polyvinylchloride (PVC), chlorinated polyvinylchloride (CPVC), polyamide nylon, polypropylene and crosslinked polyethylene. In addition, a growing number of our members also have divisions that produce and/or distribute ductile iron, cast iron, steel, copper, clay, corrugated steel, and concrete pipe.

// ** Advertisement ** //

2. What questions do you commonly hear from people who are shopping for new pipe? What are they looking for? How do address them?

TR: In the past, the most important question asked was &#;How much?&#; But with a growing concern relating to sustainability, two more questions are becoming equal in importance to the economics of the job: Firstly, what is the environmental impact and performance of the pipe and secondly, does it create &#;green jobs.&#; More and more the specifiers for pipe systems are embracing an attitude of environmental stewardship that is driven by a greater appreciation of the carbon footprint any pipe system leaves and how well does the pipe line protect and preserve natural resources. HDPE pipe fits this need exceptionally well.

// ** Advertisement ** //

HDPE pipe has a relatively small carbon footprint when compared to iron and concrete pipe. A study conducted in the late s concluded that plastic pipe used in the building, construction and transportation industries required 56,500 trillion fewer BTU&#;s than iron and concrete/aggregate alternatives.
With its lower weight per foot, HDPE pipe is also less costly to transport to the job site than metal or concrete. And with the ability to &#;nest&#; smaller diameter pipe in larger pipe, more feet per truckload can be delivered with out breeching highway weight limitations.

In HDPE pressure pipe systems, the fused joint creates a totally leak free system. This means precious natural resources are saved and the energy to treat, store and distribute water is reduced. For municipal storm water systems, improvements in joint design in corrugated HDPE pipe deliver a watertight joint that equals and exceeds the performance levels of sanitary sewer systems. This means infiltration or exfiltration that can prematurely end a storm water system or cause road damage due to sink holes, is dramatically decreased.

// ** Advertisement ** //

When it comes to long-term sustainability, HDPE pipe truly shows its key benefits: it doesn&#;t rust, it&#;s highly resistant to mineral tuberculation and its abrasion resistance is significantly greater than metal, concrete and other plastics. With today&#;s crumbling underground infrastructure experiencing nearly 700 water main breaks per day (might want to sight a reference for this number), the need to replace old technology becomes evermore important.

ML: With ever increasing numbers of pipe failures and their associated high costs, replacing them with the same or similar pipe materials simply does not make sense. Progressive water and sewer utilities want alternatives that will last longer and perform better with minimal or no maintenance. In excess of 2 million miles of installed PVC water and wastewater pipes have demonstrated success in meeting those noble objectives throughout North America and have rewarded those utilities with substantial cost savings.

// ** Advertisement ** //

Reluctance on the part of some utilities to allow PVC pipe is the result of commercially tainted miss-information combined with a general lack of formal training in plastics materials. Admittedly, many plastics are too weak or too soft for buried pipe applications. From the beginning, the PVC pipe industry has had to invest heavily in performance testing and research in order to dispel the concerns and educate utilities along with their engineers. Does the pipe material have sufficient long-term tensile strength and stiffness? Is the pipe material resistant to permeation in contaminated soils/groundwater? Are the joints water tight? How long can the pipe be expected to last/perform? Will the pipe corrode or otherwise oxidize? Will sunlight damage the pipe? Can the pipe be used with conventional appurtenances, valves, fittings, and other connections? How can I locate the pipe after burial? Over the past five decades, the PVC pipe industry and Uni-Bell have amassed technically correct answers to these questions and more.

3. How important are pipe materials as part of the purchasing decision?

ML: The efficiency and effectiveness of water and wastewater pipe systems has a significant impact on the environment, public health and local utility budgets. The direct &#;costs&#; of corrosion for water and wastewater pipe systems are $36 billion annually in the United States and pipe corrosion represents a significant loss in value of the infrastructure investment made by local governments all across our nation. Furthermore, in the United States we average 700 water main breaks per day and lose 2.2 trillion gals of treated water every year, largely due to breaks and leaks. Through the thoughtful selection of pipe materials that are inherently best suited for the anticipated operating conditions and environment, literally billions of dollars are being saved.

TR:
The choice of pipe material for any application, whether underground or aboveground, can be the most important decision of the entire project &#; many times surpassing cost concerns. Based on the service the pipe sees or the ground conditions in which it is installed, the choice of material will dictate the service life of the system. What affect will the flow have on the pipe material? Is it highly acidic or alkaline? Is it abrasive in nature? What about the soil conditions? &#;Hot&#; soils can immediately begin to attack the exterior surface of the pipe. And what about soil contaminants? In any of these instances, a material that is highly resistant to these conditions must be employed.

Next, one needs to understand the installation methods planning to be used; trenchless or open cut? With HDPE pipe&#;s fused joint, a monolithic pipe string is created allowing for long pulls and minimal surface (and traffic) disruption.

And lastly, what is the lifetime cost of the system? Will special corrosion protection be needed? Will the pipe have the same flow characteristics in 10, 50 or 75 years? What is the anticipated cost of water (or other fluid) loss through mechanical joints? What will be the affect of soil infiltration on road ways whose cost to repair far exceeds the cost of the pipe?

4. With so many choices available, what are the key factors a buyer should consider when buying pipe?

TR: Sustainability, service life, and lifetime costs &#; this is the triple bottom line that today&#;s design engineer needs to address. Is it the best choice for the environment in terms of energy costs (carbon footprint) and protection for natural resources? Is it going to last for multiple generations &#; and then some? What is the total economic cost, including manufacturing, delivery, installation, operation, maintenance and performance for the owner/operator? HDPE pipe, both pressure and gravity flow, has proven itself around the world as the best material choice for water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, natural gas distribution, mining, oil & gas gathering, drainage, buried conduit, outfall lines, and now even safety systems for nuclear power plants. Its inherent resistance to rust and abrasion along with the best joint in both pressure and gravity flow applications has made HDPE pipe the one plastic material used in all underground utilities.

ML: The first and foremost pipe material selection factor is inherent compatibility. Materials whose long-life performance depends upon linings, coatings, wrappings or cathodic protection should only be used where alternatives are not available. It is far better and more sustainable to use pipes that are inherently well suited for their operating environments, including exposures to contaminated soils. This has contributed greatly to PVC pipes&#; rise to become the most-installed product for new water and wastewater systems. Utilities have acquired a true appreciation of PVC pipes&#; low-maintenance, corrosion-free performance and resistance to permeation by hydrocarbons at levels normally encountered.

The next important selection factor is strength. Without sufficient pressure capacity and pipe stiffness, optimal long-lived sustainability will be compromised. Pipe wall thickness design must be sufficient to handle all internal and external loadings. This requires proper understanding of a pipe material&#;s long-term tensile strength and long-term stiffness (modulus of elasticity). In addition, all anticipated loads and stresses must be taken into account. Prudent pipe designs always incorporate an ample safety factor (typically at least 2.0), because unanticipated installation and operation stresses can occur over the life of any pipe.

Lastly, installation and installation costs are selection factors. The type or method of installation may preclude the use of some pipe products and/or joint types. This is certainly true for trenchless installations.

ML: The popularity of PVC and HDPE stems from the first selection factor &#; these materials are inherently well suited for buried wastewater and water pipe applications. Both are easy to work with and install. However, it is important to recognize that PVC and HDPE are not the same. HDPE is a softer, more bendable plastic, making HDPE pipe more suitable for lower pressure, tight bending radius situations. On the other hand, PVC is a much stronger and stiffer material, which is why PVC pipes are more widely used for direct burial and trenchless installations. PVC pipes require longer bending radii, but also considerably less material to achieve or meet desired strength levels. PVC pipes are stiff enough to permit their direct connection to mechanical valves, non-plastic fittings and various other water and wastewater appurtenances. HDPE pipes are softer and require stiffening rings or other adapters in order to make proper connections. A recent AwwaRF-funded study has confirmed that PVC pipes are resistant to gasoline permeation, as well as permeation by other generally known hydrocarbon contaminants at concentrations normally encountered. All of these factors affect the selection and popularity of PVC and HDPE pipes.

TR: Because of its flexibility and durability, HDPE pipe has been the material of choice for trenchless installation practices almost since the technology first appeared in the mid- to late-s. Furthermore, since a fused joint produces a monolithic pipe string, the ability to pull long lengths and use all trenchless installation practices including HDD, sliplining and pipe bursting favors the use of HDPE pipe. Since HDPE pipe has enjoyed such a long acceptance in trenchless applications, there has been significant research and studies to provide the design engineer and contractor confidence in application and installation. As an example, there are several documents available for the design and installation of polyethylene pipe by directional drilling. The first document is an ASCE Manual of Practice (108). Another is ASTM standard F, which gives detailed design formulas (including acknowledgement of the fused joint) for a directional drill with polyethylene pipe. The Plastics Pipe Institute&#;s Handbook of PE Pipe also contains multiple chapters on directional drilling and sliplining and the second edition of the PPI handbook, which will be published in February, will include a full chapter on pipe bursting.

Another fundamental reason why HDPE pipe is so widely preferred for trenchless applications is that it has the strength to handle this demanding installation practice. Since HDPE pipe is extremely tough it can withstand the rigorous trenchless installation process and is not affected by scratches and gouges (10 percent of the pipe wall) that are certain to occur. Other materials are more sensitive to this type of damage which will cause premature failure of the piping system. HDPE pipes have the physical properties to handle large pulls.

6. Briefly discuss the background and evolution of plastic pipe.

TR: With the invention of HDPE in the s, many industries looked to this revolutionary material to see if it could improve the performance and economics of currently used materials. The pipe industry was no different. Although one of its first uses as a pipe material was in oil and gas gathering systems in the &#;oil patch,&#; its first use in underground utilities occurred in the natural gas distribution market.

Gas utilities were facing an ever-growing number of failures due to corroding steel pipelines. Recognizing the safety threat of leaking gas lines, the gas utilities looked for a material that wouldn&#;t rust and wouldn&#;t leak at the joints. Flexible, non-rusting HDPE pipe, with its fused joint filled the void perfectly. Today, 95 percent of gas distribution systems in North America use HDPE pipe accounting for more than 100 million miles of pipe.

In the mid-s, corrugated HDPE pipe was introduced in the agricultural drainage market to replace clay drainage &#;tiles.&#; Within 10 years, HDPE pipe became the material of choice. In the late s with the introduction of a smooth interior liner, corrugated HDPE pipe became a formidable competitor to corrugated steel and reinforced concrete pipe in storm water applications.

Today, solid wall HDPE pipe is available in diameters ranging from ½ to 63 in.; corrugated HDPE pipe is available in diameters ranging from 1 in. to 60 inch. HDPE pipe, because of its inherent physical properties, is used in virtually all underground utilities.

ML: Industrial PVC pipe production dates back to the s in the Bitterfeld-Wolfen chemical industry area of Germany. Many of those earliest potable water pipes remain in service. A series of tests on some of those early PVC pipes has been carried out, and the results compared quite well against the current norms. This confirmation of long-term performance provides important documentation regarding PVC pipes&#; sustainability.

PVC pipe technology was brought to North America following World War II, and started to take off after the National Sanitation Foundation (NSF) began studying plastic pipe products for water supplies in . NSF certification began in . ASTM began publishing standards for PVC water and wastewater pipes in the s.

In , the American Water Works Association (AWWA) approved its very first plastic pipe standard &#; AWWA C900, &#;Standard for Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pressure Pipe, 4 inch through 12 inch, for Water.&#; PVC has grown to be the largest volume plastic pipe material in North America with annual sales in excess of 7.0 billion lbs. PVC pipe diameters range from 0.5to 48 in.

7. How have buying patterns changed over the years?

TR: It&#;s not so much that buying patterns have changed; rather the mindset in the design community has changed. Designers and owners recognize they can&#;t continue to operate in the same old way. Although they are still looking for the best product for the application, newer materials and installation practices are giving them greater choices than ever before. With more and more information becoming available and continuous improvement in plastic pipes, older, traditional materials such as iron and concrete are giving way to newer construction materials. Designers are also becoming more focused on the environment and taking particular interest in preserving natural resources for a growing country. Sustainability and a desire to conserve energy in every quarter also lend a favorable light to HDPE pipe.

ML: Ever mounting numbers of satisfied water and wastewater customers have kept those as the two primary end-use markets for buried PVC pipes. PVC pipes now also dominate the budding market for reclaimed water pipe. The acceptance and availability of larger PVC pipe diameters has resulted in a trend toward the increased use of larger pipes.

8. What innovations or changes have occurred with your products recently? What future changes are in store?

ML: Technological advances in manufacturing process controls and monitoring, together with equipment enhancements, have enabled PVC pipe product performance and consistency to improve. This progress has been steady and evolutionary, not revolutionary.

The development of several innovative joint designs has enabled PVC pipe producers to offer a variety of PVC pipe options that are very well suited for trenchless pipe situations. The same properties that have made PVC the market leader among pipe materials for water and sewer applications in North America make PVC a preferred material choice in trenchless applications. There are four trenchless technology methods for which PVC pipes are extremely well suited. These are Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD), Sliplining, Tight Fit Structural Liner and Pipebursting.

TR:
One hallmark of the HDPE industry overall, and the HDPE pipe industry in particular is the constant effort to improve base resins and pipe design. From a materials standpoint, the most recent innovation has been the introduction and recognition of high-performance HDPE resins for pressure pipe allocations, specifically PE . These resins are not the same old materials with a new name. These are new technology HDPE materials &#; third or even fourth generation &#; with performance capabilities surpassing previous grades. Even though the previous grades of PE materials have an excellent performance history in gas and water service, the HDPE industry continues to challenge itself &#; the same is not readily noticeable with other base materials and pipes. These new resins take performance to another level allowing them to be used with higher design stresses without sacrificing safety or design life.

HDPE resin and pipe have superior resistance to failure and rapid crack propagation (RCP). These are essential properties for HDD applications where scratching and gouging of the pipe are a fact of life. HDPE pipe can be gouged up to 10 percent (studies have shown even 20 percent) of the wall thickness with no detrimental effects to the long-term performance of the pipe. Resistance to RCP means that the monolithic piping system of heat fused HDPE pipe will not be susceptible to rapid cracking that can run for hundreds or even thousands of feet with catastrophic results.

Continued improvements in pipe design, specifically in the corrugated drainage pipe industry (storm water management) has allowed for greater burial depths and improved joint performance. Today&#;s HDPE corrugated pipe is significantly better than the original product first introduced in the mid-s. State and federal Departments of Transportations, municipalities and private enterprises are the beneficiaries of these efforts.

As technologies in the petrochemical market continue to develop, the underground utilities industry can expect continuing improvement. This of course begs the question: What has the metal and concrete industries done to improve their products?

9. What are some of the common misconceptions regarding your pipe material? How do you dispel this?

ML: The utilities that are not yet using PVC pipe usually cite insufficient strength and/or stiffness. The facts are that PVC pipes come in a full range of pressure ratings/classes and stiffnesses. While the minimum pipe stiffness of 46 lbs/in./in. for standard strength PVC gravity sewer pipes has proven to be good for burial depths in excess of 40 ft, PVC pipes are available with pipe stiffness values up to 1,019 lbs/in./in. The embedment requirements for PVC water pipe are no different than those for ductile iron pipe. Likewise, while most pressurized water systems operate within a 60- to 120-psi range, PVC pipe pressure ratings/classes go up to 305 psi; with short-term burst pressure minimums as high as 985 psi. Clearly PVC pipes afford more than sufficient strength to handle the full range of sewer and water system operating conditions.
Some utilities are concerned about soil contaminants permeating through plastic water pipes and associated human health risks. The fact is that PVC pipes provide a barrier to permeation and are not penetrated at contamination concentrations normally found. This PVC pipe benefit/protection was recently confirmed in a research published by AwwaRF. The AWWA Research Foundation study (published in early ) determined that PVC has superior hydrocarbon permeation resistance to gasoline and BTEX&#;s in both laboratory and field study conditions.

Are you interested in learning more about HDPE Pipe Price? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

TR: That HDPE pipe is not as strong or durable as pipe made from steel or concrete is a common misconception. Of course this is not the case. HDPE pipe is a truly engineered product designed for specific purposes and long service life. In fact, it has been our experience that when traditional materials cannot handle a specific application either due to aggressive flows, soils or other unique conditions or installation practices demand trenchless techniques, HDPE pipe gets the nod. Our biggest frustration is that we get the most challenging applications but not the bread-and-butter uses such as potable water, sanitary sewer and storm water management applications.

We recognize HDPE pipe, although it has been used for nearly 50 years in the gas industry and more than 40 years in storm water management systems, is a &#;new kid on the block,&#; and we have to continually educate and promote our products to the design and specification community. As a result, our first step is to create a greater awareness to the features and benefits of HDPE pipe. We continue to conduct research, give educational seminars and promote case studies that verify the broad applications HDPE pipe enjoys. Secondly, we have to work on gaining approval by the design and specifying firms and agencies to allow engineers to employ our products. Lastly, the end user or owner will accept the product only when they are confident it is the best product for their specific application or need.

10. What is your pipe material&#;s strongest characteristic?

TR: HDPE pipe, in our opinion, is the best product for developing a truly sustainable infrastructure. From its low energy cost to produce, ship and install, to its superior joint performance in all applications, to its resistance to rust and abrasion and finally its short and long term economic advantages, we believe there is no other material that approaches the performance and versatility of HDPE pipe.

ML: PVC pipe combines the ageless durability that comes with a corrosion-free material with the overall strength and stiffness required to handle both water and sewer system demands at a cost that is comparable or less than the alternatives. PVC is arguably the most sustainable and cost-effective of all pipe materials.

11. How does increasing the awareness and importance of pipe materials help the consumer?

ML: Consumers need to know that there are options when it comes to pipe materials and products. Moreover, within a given material such as PVC, a broad range of product strengths exists that allow for cost-efficient design for almost any situation. Single product or material specifications should be the rare exception and not the rule given these options. As the No. 1 water and wastewater pipe material, most utilities across the country have come to appreciate the installation and operation benefits that PVC pipes and fittings provide.

TR: &#;Nobody gets fired for buying IBM,&#; is an old saying that basically translates to: &#;Don&#;t take a risk.&#; Design engineers take on an awesome responsibility, much like the Hippocratic Oath of doctors to &#;First, do no harm.&#; Recognizing this, we are obligated to provide the highest level of information to ensure engineers, specifiers, city officials and end users all know the performance levels of our products. As good as HDPE pipe is, it can not do everything. With the American people becoming keenly aware of everyone&#;s responsibility to be good stewards of the planet and that our underground infrastructure is in need of hundreds of billions of dollars in repairs to ensure we have safe, clean water and gas coming to our homes, plastics can and will be leading the charge. HDPE pipe offers low lifecycle costs, high sustainability and the best performance attributes. It makes no sense to keep doing the same thing that was done 100 years ago and education is the key to make this change.

Sharon M. Bueno is managing editor of Trenchless Technology.

What Is High Density Polyethylene Pipe? (Usage, Pros & Cons)

What Is High Density Polyethylene Pipe? (Usage, Pros & Cons)

 

A high density polyethylene pipe &#; or an HDPE Pipe &#; is a specific type of Plastic Pipe with incredible durability, flexibility, and multi-purpose application. What&#;s more, this type of piping has been used for decades worldwide for all types of tasks and purposes from gas transfer to sewers, drainage, water infrastructure, and more.

So, below we&#;ve compiled the main points you need to know about what a high density polyethylene pipe is, how it&#;s used, and what are its exact pros and cons.

 

What is high density polyethylene pipe or HDPE pipe?

A high density polyethylene pipe is a type of high quality plastic pipe that can be used for almost any type of liquid or gas. HDPE pipes are a type of PE (polyethylene) pipe in that it&#;s made of petroleum, like any other plastic. The polymers of HDPE pipes are, as the name suggests, of a much higher density, however, which makes them ideal for many industrial uses a normal PE pipe wouldn&#;t work for.

This isn&#;t to say that the high density polyethylene material is only good for piping, of course. This type of plastic has been used for anything from toys, high quality drinking bottles, or sports equipment to insulation and piping. Let&#;s look at the latter in a bit more detail below.

 

What are HDPE pipes used for?

 

HDPE pipes have been a mainstay in most industrial construction and infrastructure areas for decades alongside steel, concrete, and PVC pipes. Today, a high density polyethylene pipe can be used for anything such as potable water mains, gas mains, fire system supply lines, rural irrigation, communication and other electrical conduits, drainage and storm water pipes, sewer mains, transfer lines, and more.

Such uses for HDPE pipes can be found both in industrial and residential areas with homeowners free to install them in their homes for any of their gas, water, sewer, and other such needs.

This versatility of high density polyethylene pipes is due to the very specific mix of properties and advantages they come with. However, it&#;s still important to keep in mind the few key specifics or drawbacks these pipes also have.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of HDPE pipes?

Given what HDPE pipes are, some of their pros and cons are obvious at a glance. For example, because of their high density, they are much more durable than other PE pipes as well as all common PVC pipes. This makes a high density polyethylene pipe usable in much more cases and scenarios than those pipes.

At the same time, as a type of polyethylene pipe, the HDPE does offer more flexibility than the common steel or concrete pipes, it&#;s more lightweight and easier to transport, its installation is much simpler, and so on.

 

All that comes with a few disadvantages too, such as lower temperature tolerance compared to steel and concrete pipes, lower strength, and so on. So, let&#;s go over each point below.

Pros:

HDPE pipes have a high resistance to most detrimental effects such as corrosion, deposits, tuberculation, etc. Chemical resistance and corrosion resistance are especially big advantages for this type of piping as other PE and PVC piping materials have certain limitations when it comes to corrosion and chemical resistance.

HDPE pipes are much more lightweight and easier to transport. This is an obvious advantage in terms of cost-effective logistics, especially when it comes to larger quantities, lengths, and diameters of pipes.

A high density polyethylene pipe allows for faster installations. This is thanks to the lightweight nature of HDPE pipes, even when they are of a longer length compared to concrete and steel pipes. That&#;s great both for residential use where the logistic capabilities of the user are often limited and for industrial use where large quantities of piping are often necessary.

Greater freeze-break resistance compared to steel and concrete alternatives. This is an area where HDPE pipes shine especially bright as the HDPE material can stay perfectly ductile even in sub-zero temperatures and even with water repeatedly freezing, thawing, and re-freezing inside the type.

The same can&#;t be said about more rigid pipe materials such as concrete and steel as they can suffer permanent damage due to freezing in particularly low temperatures, especially over time. This makes HDPE ideal for alpine areas.

 

HDPE pipes have a much lower scrap value and therefore lead to much fewer Jobsite theft. While there are certain steps you can take to prevent jobsite theft, using equipment and materials with a lower scrap value is key.

HDPE pipes are also recyclable and eco-friendly. This runs contrary to many people&#;s conventional wisdom. Yet, even though it is true that the process of producing HDPE pipes isn&#;t all that eco-friendly, the pipes themselves are 100% recyclable.

There is a wide range of joining and fitting options that don&#;t require flame for joining. This is thanks to the fact that high density polyethylene pipes have been in wide use for decades and aren&#;t at all a newcomer to the industrial scene.

HDPE pipes offer excellent safety for drinkable water in both the short and long term. It&#;s intuitive for people to distrust plastic materials regarding drinking water and foods but HDPEs have been widely recognized as safe for use with drinking water, especially when it comes to cold and moderate temperature water.

HDPE pipes have also been approved for use with hot drinking water in Europe for a while although similar approvals aren&#;t as common in the United States as of yet.

A high density polyethylene pipe has more than enough durability to withstand the installation process and prolonged use. The exact type of HDPE matters, of course, depending on the hydrostatic design stress of the HDPE material.

 

This is largely &#; albeit not exclusively &#; determined by how much the plastic polymer has been pressurized during its manufacturing. That&#;s typically signified by the number on the pipe&#;s name such as PE63, PE80, PE100, or other, pointing at the number of polymerization molecules by ethylenes in the polymer.

As they can be heat-fused, HDPE pipes are virtually 100% leak-proof, thus avoiding a common problem in the joints of steel and concrete pipes.

A standard high density polyethylene pipe is also UV-resistant and can spend decades above ground with no UV damage on the pipe.

Cons:

HDPE pipes have poor weathering resistance compared to concrete and steel pipes. This con can be contentions to some as HDPE pipes are much more weather-resistant than other PE and PVC pipes but they are still not on the level of concrete and steel when extreme weather conditions are concerned.

A high rate of thermal expansion compared to other materials. The precise rate of thermal expansion of HDPE pipes is calculated as thus &#; 8.0 x 10-5 in/in/°F. This translates to about 1 inch of expansion for every 10° Fahrenheit change in temperature for every 100 feet of pipe length. This expansion rate is about 4.5 to 5 times greater than that of steel and iron pipes.

It is worth noting that this greater rate of thermal expansion is not seen as a major drawback in most situations and expert technicians know when and how to work around it. Still, it is a con that should be mentioned.

 

Bonding a high density polyethylene pipe is more difficult and time-consuming. This is despite the relative ease of HDPE pipe installations and stems from the fact that HDPE is a type of plastic with very high abrasion resistance &#; i.e., it&#;s very difficult to glue.

HDPE pipes are susceptible to stress cracking. That&#;s due to the high density of this PE material &#; it makes it resistant to high tensile stress as the HDPE can stretch and yield, but it can experience brittle failure under low tensile stress.

Lower strength or stiffness overall &#; this con is self-explanatory as even though HDPE is much stronger than other PE materials, it can&#;t match the strength of concrete and steel pipes.

HDPE pipes are flammable under certain conditions. This isn&#;t to say that they are easily flammable &#; they aren&#;t &#; but in a comparison with high quality steel and concrete pipes, any HDPE will technically be more easily flammable as it has an auto-ignition temperature of ~300o Celsius (572o F).

In conclusion &#; what is a high density polyethylene pipe and should you use it at home?

HDPE pipes are a type of PE pipe that&#;s made from thermoplastic high density polyethylene so that it&#;s more durable and long-lasting under various conditions. This makes HDPE pipes excellent for many different tasks both in residential homes and for large-scale infrastructure.

Whether you&#;re looking for a water pipe, wastewater sewer pipe, industrial pipe for gases and chemicals, or for almost any other type of fluids or gases, a high density polyethylene pipe likely is the way to go.

 

Uses And Advantages of HDPE Pipes

 

High-density polyethylene is a thermoplastic polymer which is produced from the monomer ethylene. The high-density polyethylene pipe market is growing rapidly in India. As per many trusted reports, the HDPE pipe industry in India was at $99.9 million in and it is estimated to reach a staggering $233.5 million by . 
 

 

HDPE pipes are known for their high tensile strength, flexibility, durability and lightweight. These pipes have been used for municipal and industrial water applications for several years. The fact that HDPE pipes are environment friendly makes it even more favourable. These pipes are non-toxic, chemical and corrosion resistant, and ensure a long lifespan. The best quality HDPE pipes from top HDPEpipe manufacturers and suppliers ensure zero leak rate.

 

Here are some of the properties of HDPE pipes - 
 

·         HDPE pipes can resist many solvents, chemicals, and acidic environments

·         HDPE pipes have high strength and flexibility and are much lighter in weight.

·         These pipes are resistant to impact and that is what makes it a favourable choice for large industrial projects.

·         Superior quality HDPE pipes from leading HDPE pipe manufacturers have a long life span of 50-100 years


Advantages of HDPE pipes
 

·         Easy to handle and hassle-free to install â&#;&#; HDPEare easy to handle and install. Its density is way lesser than steel and does not demand any heavy lifting equipment during the time of installation. As these pipes are flexible, they can be bent easily.

·         Minimized installation costs â&#;&#; These pipes require fewer fittings and can be welded into seamless leak-free pipe runs. This reduces the expense of labour and installation.

·         Corrosion and chemical resistance â&#;&#; One of the finest quality of HDPE pipes is that it features chemical and corrosion resistance. It offers brilliant corrosion resistance to corrosive, acids, bases and salts and remains unaffected by fungi and bacteria.

·         Heat-fused joints - HDPE pipes are heat fused to form a strong joint. This offers significant installation advantages when compared to traditional pipes.

 

What makes our HDPE pipes an ideal solution are the standards that we maintain at Utkarsh India. 

·         IS - for Water Supply

·         IS for Potable Water

·         IS for Sewerage

·         EN for Water Supply

·         IS: (Part I & II) for sprinkler irrigation systems

If you would like more information about this product, please feel free to contact us. Recommend other popular products for you: HDPE Dredge Pipe, Plastic Pipe Floater Factory, Uhmwpe Pipe Manufacturer, HDPE Natural Gas Pipe, PVC HDPE Difference, Price For HDPE Pipe, HDPE Pipe Disadvantages, HDPE VS PVC Strength, Cost of HDPE Pipe, Abrasion Rubber Dredger Hoses Price, HDPE Pipe For Dredge, HDPE Pipe Dredging Floater Quotes, Dredging HDPE Pipe, HDPE Floaters, HDPE Pipe Floater, HDPE Pipe For Mining, Dredging Pipe Floater, HDPE Dredging Pipe

The company is the world’s best 8 Inch HDPE Pipe supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.

27

0

Comments

Please Join Us to post.

0/2000

All Comments ( 0 )

Guest Posts

If you are interested in sending in a Guest Blogger Submission,welcome to write for us!

Your Name: (required)

Your Email: (required)

Subject:

Your Message: (required)