What‘s HDPE pipes?
HDPE stands for high density polyethylene, and is made from ethylene, which can be derived from either crude oil or natural gas. HDPE Pipe is extremely strong, durable, flexible, corrosion free and chemical resistant.
What makes HDPE pipe unique?
HDPE pipe is joined together through a unique heat fusion process that creates a seal resulting in a strong leak-free system.
What are the advantages of HDPE pipes for municipal water and sewer use?
Other types of plastic and iron pipes require joints to turn and link the pipe. These joints tend to lose water as it flows through the pipe. HDPE pipe is fused together so that the links are equally strong or stronger than the rest of the pipe, meaning that it holds water much better than other types of pipe.
What can HDPE pipe carry?
HDPE pipe transports potable water, wastewater, chemicals, and compressed gases.
Why is HDPE pipe better than metal pipes?
Unlike other materials, HDPE pipe does not corrode over time and is not susceptible to chemical damage. It is also much more flexible and can move with different soil conditions and ground movement. Because it is light weight, it is easier to handle, transport, and fix, which in turn reduces costs.
Why’s HDPE pipe better
Besides being leak free, HDPE pipe is environmentally friendly and is less intrusive to communities when it is installed. Instead of ripping up roads, sidewalks and habitats, municipalities can choose to use a trenchless installation technique which results in less disruption to “Main Street” or the environment.
Are there certain soil requirements for HDPE pipes?
No. HDPE pipe is known for its flexibility, toughness and chemical resistance. HDPE pipe can withstand great pressure changes due to its outstanding ductility and toughness. These performance characteristics make HDPE pipe an excellent choice for dynamic soils and earthquake prone areas that require a strong, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant pipe that is also flexible enough to be installed and assembled in harsh and challenging environments.
Can HDPE pipe be installed without digging a trench?
YES. HDPE pipe can be installed with pipe bursting, slip lining, or horizontal directional drilling (HDD) techniques, all of which are trenchless. These types of installations significantly reduce the overall costs since highways and other immovable structures do not have to be disrupted.
Pipe bursting: An expanding device called an expander head is sent into the defective pipeline. It travels through the pipeline toward the other end and breaks the pipe into many small pieces, pushing the pieces into the surrounding soil. New pipe is attached to the back of the expander head, replacing the old pipe immediately.
Slip lining: A cable is inserted through the defective pipeline and then attached to the front of the new pipe. The new liner pipe is then pulled into the existing pipe, and the new liner pipe reconnected to the system. The new pipe must be smaller in diameter than the old pipe.
Directional Drilling: This technique is used to install brand new pipe without digging up the ground and is especially effective around roads and bodies of water. It is a three-stage process. Stage one involves drilling a hole along the designated path. Stage two involves passing a device called a “reamer” through the hole to enlarge it. Stage three involves sending the pipe through the hole and connecting it to the system. The entire operation is run from above ground using a control system that guides the drilling.
How does the overall cost of HDPE pipe compare in price with other materials?
Underground water pipes are a major long term (50-100 years) investment. In addition to comparing the initial purchase price, the long term maintenance costs and overall life-cycle costs should be carefully evaluated. According to the Federal Highway Administration, utilities spend $36 billion annually on corrosion protection of pipes. Because HDPE pipe does not corrode and does not leak at the joints, constant repair of aging metal pipes or leaking at the joints
with all other pipes is no longer an issue. Initial cost savings are also realized with the opportunity for a trenchless installation. Compared to PVC and ductile iron, HDPE has the lowest life-cycle costs due to lower installation costs, lower repair rates, less water loss and lower energy costs.
Can HDPE pipes be used for hot water?
No. HDPE pipes can’t be used for hot water, but only cold water. The max. Temperature should be less than 45℃.
Can HDPE pipes be used for drinking water?
Yes. HDPE pipes can be used for drinking water supply.
How can we connect HDPE pipes? HDPE pipes connected with heat fusion technology. There are three heat fusion methods: socket fusion, butt fusion, electro fusion. For more information about them, please refer to INSTALLATION SUPPORT of HDPE pipes & fittings.