Types and Design of HDPE Pipes

Types and Design of HDPE Pipes

HDPE Pipe is a flexible Plastic Pipe made of thermoplastic high-density polyethylene widely used for low-temperature fluid and gas transfer. In recent times, HDPE pipes got their extensive uses for carrying potable water, hazardous wastes, various gases, slurry, firewater, stormwater, etc. The strong molecular bond of HDPE pipe materials helps it to use for high-pressure pipelines. Polyethylene pipes have a long and distinguished service history for gas, oil, mining, water, and other industries. Due to its low weight and high corrosion resistance, the HDPE pipe industry is growing tremendously. In the year , Karl Ziegler and Erhard Holzkamp discovered high-density polyethylene (HDPE). HDPE pipes can work satisfactorily in a wide temperature range of - F to + F. However, the use of HDPE Pipes is not suggested when the fluid temperature exceeds F (500 C).

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Types of Pipes

HDPE pipes are made by the polymerization of ethylene, a by-product of oil. Various additives (stabilizers, fillers, plasticizers, softeners, lubricants, colorants, flame retardants, blowing agents, crosslinking agents, ultraviolet degradable additives, etc.) are added to produce the final HDPE pipe and components. HDPE pipe lengths are made by heating the HDPE resin. It is then extruded through a die, which determines the diameter of the pipeline. The Pipe wall thickness is determined by a combination of the die size, the speed of the screw, and the speed of the haul-off tractor. Usually, 3-5% carbon black is added to HDPE to make it UV resistant, which turns HDPE pipes black in color. Other color variants are available but usually not used frequently. Colored or striped HDPE pipe is usually 90-95% black material, where a colored stripe is provided on 5% of the outside surface.

Properties of HDPE Pipes

The physical and mechanical properties of a typical HDPE Pipe are listed below:

Governing Codes: ISO , ISO , AS/ NZS , BS EN , EN , AWWA C901, AWWA C906, etc

Available size range: DN 16 to (However, other customized sizes can be manufactured)

The density of HDPE Pipe: 930-970 kg/m3

Typical Mechanical Properties of HDPE Pipe are given in Table 1 below. However, these values vary from one manufacturer to another. So, must be consulted with the manufacturer.

Mechanical PropertiesHDPE PropertiesYield Strength18-26 MpaElongation10%Elastic Modulus900 MpaHardness61 Rockwell (Shore)Poisson’s Ratio0.45Linear Coefficient of thermal expansion0.17 mm/m-0CBrittleness temperatureTable 1: Mechanical Properties of HDPE Pipe

Types of HDPE Pipes

Depending on maximum pressure withstanding capability, HDPE Pipes are classified into several pressure grades known as PN grades. They are

PN 2.5 – max pressure 2.5 bar

PN 4 – max pressure 4 bar

PN 6 – max pressure 6 bar

PN 10 – max pressure 10 bar

PN 16 – max pressure 16 bar

PN 20 – max pressure 20 bar

PN 25 – max pressure 25 bar

Again, based on the types of materials used HDPE pipes are grouped into the following types:

PE 63 – medium pressure piping systems

PE 80 – gas pipe for Natural Gas distribution network with pressure rate up to 4 bars or drinking water pipe with pressure rate up to 16 bar – sewers, outfall pipes, industrial pipes

PE 100 – high demands piping applications

The numbers following PE indicate the minimum required strength in Bar at 200 C for 50 years life span corresponding to ISO-. The rated working pressure of HDPE pipes is determined at 200 C. For higher temperatures, a derating factor (Table 2 Below) is used to determine the maximum pressure to which the HDPE Pipe can be subjected.

Length of HDPE Pipes

As HDPE Pipe manufacturing is a continuous process, pipes of any length can be manufactured. However, due to transportation requirements and ease of handling at the site, the HDPE pipe length is limited and normally produced in standard lengths of 6, 10, 12, 15, 24, and 30 meters. HDPE Pipe lengths of 50 and 100 meters can be produced on request.

Joining HDPE Pipes

HDPE Pipes and fittings are joined to each other by Welding or by mechanical fittings. There are two types of welding methods used to join HDPE pipes. They are

Electrofusion Welding: Electrofusion is a simple and quick method to permanently join individual pipes and HDPE fittings or prefabricated sections in tight places. This method is suitable for on-site joints.

Butt Welding: Butt-welding homogenously joins HDPE pipes and fittings into prefabricated sections using heat and pressure without using additional connection fittings.

Various types of mechanical joints can be used for joining HDPE pipes to HDPE or dissimilar pipes. They are

Plug-in joint

Snap joint

Screw-thread joint

Flanged joint

Contraction sleeve

Sleeve coupling

Metal coupling

Rubber collar joint

Fittings for HDPE Pipes

A complete range of HDPE Pipe fittings is available for any purpose. Typical HDPE pipe fittings include:

Bends

Elbows

Reducers

Branches

End caps

Electrofusion couplers

Mechanical connection fittings

Traps

Sanitary fittings

Spare parts

Design Criteria for Aboveground HDPE Pipe

Factors that can influence the behavior and thus, the design of above-ground HDPE piping systems are

Temperature: For pressure systems, the use of HDPE pipes is usually limited to -400C to 500 C. For non-pressure services, higher temperatures can be used. Consult with the manufacturer for getting information about their product. Note that, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion for HDPE pipes is approximately 10 times higher than that of metal pipes. So, the potential of thermal expansion due to temperature fluctuations is very high and must be considered in the design. A typical Thumb rule is HDPE pipes will expand or contract by 0.2mm per meter per °C increase or decrease in temperature.

Potential mechanical impact or loading: Extra protection must be given if the HDPE pipe is installed in a region of high traffic or mechanical abuse.

Ultraviolet radiation: To safeguard against ultraviolet radiation effects, black HDPE pipes containing a minimum of 2% carbon black are selected.

Pressure Consideration for HDPE Pipes

A number of variables determine the hydrostatic pressure capacity of HDPE pipes. Those are

Standard Dimension Ratio or SDR is defined as the ratio between the outside HDPE Pipe diameter and the wall thickness.

The hydrostatic design stress of the HDPE material being used (PE63, PE 80, PE100) for HDPE Pipe Manufacturing.

The maximum and minimum operating temperatures.

The duration and variability of the stress applied by the internal hydrostatic pressure during hydrostatic testing.

The chemical resistance of the HDPE pipe for the service chemical (the standard pressure rating is based on a pipe carrying water).

Usually, HDPE pipe can withstand short-term hydrostatic water pressures that are considerably higher than the pressure rating, or class. But the duty of the HDPE pipe should always be determined following the pipe’s long-term strength at 20°C to ensure a design life of at least 50 years.

Barlow’s Formula is also applicable for HDPE piping that is related to the internal pressure, pipe outer diameter, wall thickness, and circumferential hoop stress and is given by

p = 2 x t x σ /d or alternatively t = p x d/(2.σ + p)

Here:

p = internal pressure (MPa)

t = minimum wall thickness (mm)

d = mean outside diameter (mm)

σ = circumferential hoop stress (MPa)

The design hoop stresses for HDPE pipe materials are considered as follows as given in ISO :

PE 63: 5 MPa

PE 80: 6.3 MPa

PE100: 8 MPa

Advantages of HDPE Pipes

HDPE pipes provide various advantages with respect to other piping materials like

Cost-effective. Hence, easily affordable

High flow rate due to the smooth inner surface

Wide temperature range

Non-leaching

Easy transportation due to low-weight

UV-resistant

Amazing Durability (More than 50 years)

Resistant to most chemical solvents

Stiff material

Environment friendly

Lower maintenance cost

High Quality

Reduced installation cost

Due to its flexible shape, simple to use on slopes.

Simple joining methods.

Not affected by underground movements (Seismic Resistant)

Bad conductor of electricity.

low-friction

Ability to dampen water-shock

Sun-resistant

Non-stick surface.

Leak-free due to its seamless nature.

Prefabricated HDPE pipe sections can be easily installed

Disadvantages of HDPE Pipes

The main disadvantage of HDPE pipes are

Poor weathering resistance

Highly Flammable

Sensitive to stress cracking

Difficult to bond

Poor High-Temperature capability

High thermal expansion

HDPE Pipe Frequently Asked Questions

What is the full meaning of HDPE pipe?

The full form of HDPE is High-Density Polyethylene. This hydrocarbon polymer is produced from petroleum by a catalytic process. Famous for its tensile strength in a similar product category, High-Density Poly Ethylene is a kind of thermoplastic.

Is HDPE the same as PVC?

Both HDPE and PVC are considered plastics. However, they are not the same. HDPE is a thermoplastic made from petroleum and PVC is a durable vinyl polymer. While comparing HDPE and PVC, HDPE due to its flexibility, high strength-to-density ratio, no corrosion, and chemical stability is a strong choice for low-pressure and low-temperature applications.

What is HDPE piping used for?

HDPE or High-density polyethylene pipe is widely used to carry potable water, slurries, wastewater, chemicals, hazardous wastes, and compressed gases. They have been used in various industries like gas, oil, mining, water, and other industries.

How long will HDPE pipe last?

Properly designed HDPE piping systems provide a long-lasting performance as compared to other piping systems. As per the estimates of the Plastic Pipe Institute, they are supposed to last 50 to 100 years.

Is HDPE pipe safe for drinking water?

Yes, HDPE is totally safe for carrying drinking water. This is one of the main reasons that in the water industry and desalination plants, high-density polyethylene pipes are widely used. The application of HDPE pipes for potable water applications is certified by NSF. Various disinfectants like chlorine and chloramine are approved for use in HDPE pipes.

Which is stronger PVC or HDPE?

PVC is stronger and stiffer as compared to HDPE.

5 Things you must know about HDPE pipes

High density-polythene pipe also known as HDPE pipe got into limelight for its high demand in agriculture, municipal and industrial water applications. It is the most used plastic material today. PE pipes come in various density ranges starting from very low density, cross-linked, ultra low molecular weight, high molecular weight, medium-density, ultra-high medium-density & linear low- density. There isn’t much difference in the density of higher density polythene and lower density polythene. The density of HDPE can vary between 920 to 970 kg/m3. This blog will help you get a quick understanding regarding HDPE pipes:

Let’s get this basic understanding regarding the difference between HDPE pipes and PE pipes. Are these both the same?

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This has been a topic of contention whether these two are different or not. HDPE pipe is among the many classifications of PE pipes. PE pipes can be divided into Low Density Polyethylene Pipe (LDPE), Medium Density Polyethylene Pipe (MDPE) & High Density Polyethylene pipe (HDPE). HDPE pipe has higher molecular weight making it more wear resistant.

Polyethylene plastic pipe (PE) is one of the most basic with excellent chemical resistant properties used in areas of industrial and domestic water while HDPE pipes or high Density Polyethylene Pipes have characteristics that makes it the most preferable choice for agriculture, Domestic and Industrial requirements.

Below mentioned are the 5 major insights about HDPE pipes that will help you to get a decent information about HDPE pipes and its applications in various agriculture water requirements:

HDPE Pipes are Known For its Leak-free feature.

Let’s first know how two HDPE pipes are actually connected. The most common way to connect two HDPE pipes is through “BUTT FUSION ” also termed as butt welding. Out of the many benefits of butt fusion is that, when fused together, it can form a one piece fully welded pipeline that helps in the easy flow of fluid and can withstand any pressure. The other ways are electrofusion, socket welding, extrusion welding but the most common is the butt welding. This way of interconnecting two pipes leaves behind no chances of leakage.

HDPE is not only easy to install and cost effective but rarely requires any maintenance.

HDPE pipes have a rapture prolongation of more than 500% and can withstand earthquakes & landslides without getting affected. HDPE pipes, when installed properly, can withstand both traffic pressure as well as the soil pressure. These pipes have high abrasion qualities making it the most suitable choice for industrial piping systems. HDPE pipes are lightweight pipes that are fused together making it easy to maneuver. Being compatible with extreme weather conditions, HDPE pipes require less maintenance charges and overseeing activities. Iron pipes corrode whereas plastic pipes break because of which the regular visit and maintenance of these pipes becomes a necessity.

HDPE pipes are among the best budget-friendly innovations with extended service life.

Preferring to pipes that last long and are pocket-friendly generates a lot of value in the infrastructure sector. With very low maintenance cost and easy to install features, these pipes have become the best cost-effective option. The service life of HDPE pipes is estimated to be between 50-100 years depending on the installation, usage and design of the pipes making  them ideal for agriculture, industrial & petroleum requirements. Iron pipes and plastic pipes generally get affected due to extreme pressure and corrosion.

HDPE pipes are passive to chemicals.

Today various industries have moved towards HDPE pipes because of its chemical resistant applications. Metal pipes are being replaced by HDPE pipes to carry various fluids and gas. HDPE pipes offer an unmatched chemical and corrosion resistance. Being non-corrosive, HDPE pipes are most acceptable in hostile environment conditions and can be used in saline environments. The flint water crisis can’t happen if the pipes aren’t capable of leaching lead in the water.

HDPE pipes are referred to as the best sustainable option and are ecological.

When compared to other pipes, HDPE pipes are easily recyclable and are highly biodegradable. HDPE pipes, these days are made from recycled materials where pre-consumer material. The energy required to produce HDPE pipes is minimal when compared to other pipes. Manufacturing HDPE plastic requires only a fraction of the energy making it an Eco-friendly choice. Owing to its properties of being non toxic and inert, HDPE is non- hazardous for transportation of portable water. It generally takes   HDPE pipes, known as the most ecological plastic as it does not generate & releases harmful fumes into the environment.

Essential Things You Must Consider About HDPE Pipes

Today, HDPE pipes have become a basic need since they are manufactured to handle present-day challenges in recent growth. Yet, due to a critical need to keep production prices down and keep up the performance, quality, and efficiency, HDPE pipes have turned into the best-chosen material for almost any project. As the demand for HDPE pipes in agriculture, water, gas and various industries increases, HDPE usage is on the surge and is expected to keep rising.  

What is HDPE?

HDPE, or high-density polyethene, is a kind of thermoplastic material. It is formed of hydrogen and carbon atoms that are connected to generate methane gas, which is afterwards changed into ethylene, and with the use of pressure and heat, it gets converted into polyethene. There are numerous HDPE pipe dealers and manufacturers worldwide, but you must find one that is trustworthy and helps gain huge benefits. 

Different Types of HDPE Pipes

Based on the highest-pressure withstanding ability, HDPE pipes are categorized into several pressure grades called PN grades. They are:  

PN 2.5 – maximum pressure capability (2.5 bar) 

PN 4 – maximum pressure capability (4 bar) 

PN 6 – maximum pressure capability (6 bar) 

PN 10 – maximum pressure capability (10 bar) 

PN 16 – maximum pressure capability (16 bar) 

PN 20 – maximum pressure capability (20 bar) 

PN 25 – maximum pressure capability (25 bar) 

Also, based on the type of HDPE pipe material, these pipes are classified into the following types:  

PE 63 (used as medium pressure piping systems) 

PE 80 – gas pipe, drinking water pipe, sewers, outfall pipes, and industrial piping system 

PE 100 – huge demand pipe usage 

The numbers indicated after PE show the minimum needed durability in Bar at 200 C for fifty years life range equivalent to ISO-. The density of HDPE pipes can vary from 930 to 970 kg/m3. Even though HDPE’s density is only slightly higher than low-density polyethylene, HDPE involves small branching, offering it more powerful inter-molecular forces and extensible force than LDPE. 

Uses and Advantages of HDPE Pipes

HDPE Pipes and fittings are securely employed in different projects with increased strength and quality. The key usage areas include: 

Buildings

HDPE pipes are used in cold water network systems and house affinities. They offer ducting for AC and refrigeration.  

Civil Engineering

These pipes are used in service pipes, water mains, and sewer network systems. They are also utilized for making ducts for cables in electrical facilities.  

Agriculture

Because of the strong wall of HDPE pipes, they are utilized for spraying in water supply systems and traction lines. HDPE agriculture pipes are unsusceptible to soil erosion and salty water making them ideal for irrigation and drainage applications.  

Mining Operations

These pipes are used well in both surface and below-the-ground operations and slurries. They are utilized in conveying liquids and chemicals and mine and pit dewatering in general mining operations.  

Industrial

The industrial HDPE pipes are utilized in house sewage systems for sewer drainage control and water cleansing in sanitary processes. In the petrochemical industry, these pipes are used to transport most chemicals and potable water.  

Marine or Aquaculture

The use of HDPE pipes is in supply lines and floats. They can remove a large quantity of cold water from big water bodies. These pipes also enable trenchless technology that leads to the rehabilitation of present pipelines with minimum disturbance to the surface.  

Advantages of HDPE Pipes

Tough and Powerful:

The HDPE pipes bring high effect resistance and also hold off dynamic and static pressure. These pipes do not break in freezing situations and bear rough dealing and traffic burdens. 

Non-toxic :

HDPE is non-toxic, incurring to its property of being inactive and non-toxic. That is why HDPE is used for potable water transportation. 

Corrosion Proof :

HDPE ducts and pipes are used quickly for underground setups. The reason is that the pipes are electrolytic and galvanic corrosion-proof. 

Laid-back to Chemicals:

HDPE pipes bring superior resistance to chemicals that make them suitable for dealing with corrosive alkalis and acids. As these pipes are totally neutral to chemicals, they are used extensively in chemical plants. 

Lightweight:

HDPE pipes are many times lighter than traditional pipes. That is why their conveyance and set-up are worthwhile and easy. 

Soft Surface:

The HDPE ducts and pipes possess smooth outer and inner surfaces, thus letting small frictional impedance to liquid flow. Likewise, HDPE readily allows firm particles to flow together with the liquids in the pipes. 

Compliance:

One of the critical elements of HDPE ducts and pipes is that they are very stretchy and bend simply without breaking. This main feature of HDPE pipes permits extended lengths of small-diameter pipes to be elated in the type of coils. 

Fast Setup:

Incurring HDPE agility, the transportation, set-up process, and handling become simple. Similarly, HDPE pipes don’t require heavy machinery to shift them. 

Increased Electrical Resistance:

HDPE pipes are broadly used as electrical lines because their dielectric power is high. Also, no abandoned electrical currents may be moved from outside. 

Extended Life:

HDPE pipes have a moderate life of over fifty years if used at regular working temperature and pressure. As against traditional pipes like GI, PVC, cement, steel, etc., they have only some years of life.   

How to Choose the Best HDPE Pipe Supplier?

The pipe supplier must be well associated with the infrastructure niche. If they know the market, they will understand the best products to deliver to you. This can be quickly set up with an , a few important questions, or a speedy call.

The supplier generally offers orders in bulk quantity. This signifies they are utilized for huge volume productivity, and you can depend on their top times and your increased demand. 

The supplier should possess a good track record. An organization that is proud of itself in service includes a reduced chance of providing low-grade products. 

Choose a dealer that is best in the growth, study and manufacturing of HDPE and feasibly same plastic materials such as PPR, PVC, PP, PEX etc. But, be cautious of a supplier that claims to be a sole provider. 

The supplier is considerably easygoing on the cost. More quantity is equivalent to the discounted cost. Most individuals do not like price bustling for a price. Thus, a supplier that stays to the point is a good indication. It is pretty easy to assure extremely reduced prices than the competitors, but purchasing cheap quality for the benefit of buying cheap involves increasing risk than reward.  

Conclusion

HDPE pipes are in big demand due to their flexible material that fulfills the expectations of all the water sources crossways the nation. Selecting HDPE pipes for agriculture, industrial and housing water needs becomes an imperative decision that can have a lasting effect on any industrial project or on agricultural land. Buying HDPE pipes from trustworthy HDPE pipe dealers and manufacturers absolutely helps to get the most favorable advantages of HDPE pipes. We hope this post will be useful for you in getting quick knowledge about HDPE pipes. So, if you wish to get a quotation regarding your water piping requirements, feel free to contact us.

HDPE Pipe Installation Methods - An Overview of 6 Common Methods

HDPE pipe Installation Methods

There are almost as many installation methods for HDPE pipe as there are applications, sizes and colors. This article describes six of the most common methods. Detailed descriptions of each can be found in the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) Second Edition Handbook of PE Pipe .

Pipe Bursting

Pipe bursting with HDPE pipe has become a practical solution for replacing/rehabilitating the nation’s aging infrastructure. Pipe bursting is a trenchless method to replace buried sewer and water piping without the need for a traditional construction trench and associated equipment.

In this process, HDPE pipe is pulled through existing pipe, essentially ‘bursting’ the older pipe with new high-density polyethylene. This technique can be used to replace several types of older pipe including asbestos cement (AC) pipe, vitrified clay pipe (VCP), ductile iron, cast iron, plain concrete, plastic and reinforced concrete pipe (RCP). This less-invasive method leaves the remnants of the old pipe in place; no digging, haul-off or disposal is needed. This method can also be more cost effective. For example, other methods of removing AC pipe are three to five times more expensive than pipe bursting. The pipe bursting method is in full compliance with all federal regulations and guidelines.

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)

Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) is often used to install HDPE pipe in situations where an obstacle, either above ground or below the surface, does not allow traditional installation methods to be used. In this method, a small borehole is drilled under the obstacle that must be crossed, such as a highway or river. Another larger bit, or reamer, is run through the hole a second time, increasing the hole size. Several reamer runs of progressively larger sizes may be necessary to reach the desired hole size. Finally, the pipe is pulled through the hole and connected to the line. The fusion joints and standard lengths of 40 or 50 feet reduce the number of overall joints in the pipe and allow for tougher handling of material with less concern for damage compared to other materials.

Micro-Trenching

For installing smaller conduit lines such as Internet, electrical and microduct products, micro-trenching presents the best option. In this method, a small vertical trench or slot is cut next to the highway, street or sidewalk and the line placed and covered. This can be performed quickly, without impeding busy traffic areas, and does not require heavy equipment or excavation.

Benefits of micro-trenching include minimal traffic disruption, time and material savings.

Plow

In this method, a long, narrow trench called a furrow is created by a plow blade pulled by a tractor or mounted to a railroad car. The furrow is cut in the earth and conduit is placed through the plow’s chute. As opposed to trenching, the plow method does not actually remove soil from the trench. It only displaces the soil as the plow is dragged through the ground while the conduit is installed.

Direct Burial

HDPE pipe can be installed via direct burial safely at depths from 2 to 25 feet where no traffic is present and from 3 to 25 feet where a live load is present. With this method, a trench is dug, the pipe is laid in the trench and the trench is filled back in. However, there are many parameters to consider with direct burial including foundation preparation, bedding and fill material, length and depth of trench, pipe diameter and testing.

Slip Lining

Slip Lining will help implement many of the infrastructure upgrades needed across the country. In this method, new HDPE pipe sticks are inserted at strategic access points in the older, deteriorated line. The HDPE sticks are joined into a new continuous line throughout the existing pipe structure. This technique can be used to rehabilitate gravity sewers, sanitary force mains, water mains, outfall lines, highway and drainage culverts and other piping structures with extremely satisfactory results. Slip lining has been used to restore pipe as small as one inch, and there are no apparent maximum pipe diameter limits.

Installation Considerations for Microduct

Microduct products may be installed in direct burial applications via micro-trenching or in microduct pathways via air blowing techniques or traditional manual cable pulling/pushing. For outdoor applications, Microduct products are easily and quickly installed in direct buried applications using minimally invasive micro-trenching equipment.

Air blowing methods (ABC) installations are performed by an air blowing technique that reduces the risk of damage to the fiber cable, accelerates installation time and increases the installation distance.

For indoor applications such as optical fiber subscriber drop cable, aerial installation is a proven option. In this method, the cable is suspended from the ceiling in the building raceway. This option allows for future upgrades with minimal disruption.

Why UPS?

UPS manufactures HDPE pipe for the water, sewer, oil and gas, mining, power, communications and renewables industries. No matter which installation method you’re using need, UPS has the pipe you need. We can advise on installation best practices and support your team throughout the entire process.

HDPE Pipe ideal for below-freezing temperature applications

High Density Polyethene (HDPE) piping is a versatile product suited for multiple applications in communications, oil and gas, power utility, municipal and water industries. The most common benefits cited for selection of HDPE over other piping solutions include its light weight, low cost, resistance to corrosion, strength, flexibility, reliability and recyclability. However, another unique benefit is HDPE piping’s specifications and temperature limits in extreme low temperatures.

In extreme cold weather, rigid pipes such as ductile iron, cast iron and PVC are more likely to fail from freeze damage when compared to HDPE piping. These pipe failures occur because of inline water freezing and expanding, and line breakages from shifting soil due to extreme temperature changes. When water in supply lines freeze it expands (by 9%) and pushes pipe outwards. As the outward force, known as hoop stress, increases pipes may burst.

More often pipe breaks occur due to soil movement. In-ground moisture freezing and thawing causes soil expansion and contraction which stresses buried pipe. Breakage failures typically occur at pipe joints, which are considered the weakest points in piping.  

To avoid breaks from freezing, piping of all types and sizes should be buried at a depth greater than the expected depth of frost penetration. In general, smaller diameter pipes have a higher risk of breakage than larger sizes.

This past February several states, including Alabama, Oklahoma, Kansas, Kentucky and Texas, received a dose of abnormal and extreme cold weather. While some states fared better than others it was obvious that the water system infrastructure had not been winterized. Many municipalities were unable to maintain water service during the lengthy freezing temperatures.

Despite advanced warning that extreme cold conditions were imminent, little could be done to avoid water supply line failures. As a result, many business and homeowners were without water for consecutive days. In a press release issued February 19, Texas Governor Greg Abbott reported, “We know that this past week has been challenging for far too many Texans. Our state agencies are working around the clock to restore power and water, and to ensure Texans have food and supplies.” Abbott went as far as to call in plumbers from out of state and to quickly renew licenses for plumbers whose certifications had lapsed.

Elsewhere in Texas, Houston’s Public Works department reported receiving more than 5,000 calls related to broken pipes. Austin reported a loss of 325 million gallons due to leakages between Feb 16 and 17. In Fort Worth more than 600 water main breaks were reported. Fort Worth Water Department spokesperson Mary Gugliuzza, speaking to NBC-DFW Channel 5, was asked about infrastructure and she commented, “We know that the cast iron pipes are a problem.”

As water supply infrastructure is installed and upgraded across the U.S., municipalities must consider HDPE as an alternative to rigid pipe in commercial applications, specifically in regions or areas that may not regularly experience sustained freezing temperatures.

HDPE pipe’s temperature limits help it remain ductile below freezing and it can withstand temperatures down to -94°F (-70°C). HDPE piping’s flexibility and elasticity allow water inside the pipe to freeze and thaw repeatedly without causing permanent damage. In comparison, PVC piping’s temperature rating is 5°F (-15°C) and becomes brittle in freezing temperatures.

Long-length sections of continuous HDPE pipe reduces the number of joints and potential failure points. HDPE joints are heat-fused and create a virtually seamless monolithic pipe.

To maintain water supply in extreme cold weather conditions, selecting the right product is essential for continued delivery of water service in extreme environments. HDPE is reliable and freeze tolerant and must be considered during design and selection or upgrading municipal water systems.

About United Poly Systems

United Poly Systems produces quality HDPE pipe in diameters from ¾-in. to 26-in. IPS, 4-in. to 24-in. DIPS and ¾-in. to 2-in. CTS for use in many industries including telecommunications, power utility, water, electrical and oil and gas. The market for HDPE pipe continues to expand as initiatives to improve, repair and expand the country’s infrastructure are implemented. 

Our off-the-shelf HDPE conduit/pipe is available in a variety of sizes, colors, dimensions and lengths, with or without stripes. We also offer fully customizable HDPE conduit options. In addition, piping can be customized with a ribbed interior (to maximize the distance cable may be pulled or jetted), pull tape, or a lubricated interior (for easier installation).  

Success at UPS can be attributed to our vast experience, extensive client relationships, state-of-the-art manufacturing and quality processes.  Our agile business model that allows UPS to quickly meet customers’ needs without the overhead expenses that are incurred by many of the larger producers in the industry. 

Conveniently located in Springfield, Missouri and Albuquerque, New Mexico, United Poly Systems can provide quick delivery to a majority of the U.S. market.  

The Best Pipe for Underground Water Line Installation: A Guide for Construction Industry Professionals

Choosing the best pipe for underground water line applications is crucial. But with a plethora of options available, it can get overwhelming for contractors and construction professionals to make the right decision. This article demystifies the various pipe options for underground waterlines and offers insights on which type is best suited for particular applications.

Types of Pipes

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes
Features: PVC pipes are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and durable. They’re available in different pressure ratings and sizes.
Best For: Non-potable water supply, irrigation, and drainage systems.
Advantages: Resistant to most chemicals and roots; relatively easy to install; cost-effective.
Limitations: Can become brittle over time; not recommended for hot water supply.

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) Pipes
Features: CPVC pipes share many features with PVC but can withstand higher temperatures.
Best For: Hot and cold potable water supply.
Advantages: Resistant to corrosion; can handle hot water; long lifespan.
Limitations: More expensive than PVC; requires careful installation to avoid leakage.

PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) Pipes
Features: Flexible, durable, and can handle freezing temperatures without cracking.
Best For: Potable water supply systems, radiant heating, and cooling systems.
Advantages: Resists scale and chlorine; less likely to burst from freezing; easier installation due to flexibility.
Limitations: UV-sensitive; not suitable for outdoor applications without protection.

Ductile Iron Pipes
Features: Strong and durable, these pipes are often coated to prevent corrosion.
Best For: Main and distribution water lines; potable water supply.
Advantages: Long lifespan; robust and resistant to wear and tear.
Limitations: Heavy and requires specialized equipment for installation; can be more expensive than plastic pipes.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) Pipes
Features: Flexible, lightweight, and resistant to chemicals and UV radiation.
Best For: Potable water, sewage, drainage, and natural gas distribution.
Advantages: Durable, resistant to corrosion, and has a long lifespan.
Limitations: Connection joints need specific fittings and expertise.

Copper Pipes
Features: Metallic pipes that are resistant to corrosion and bacteria.
Best For: Potable water supply.
Advantages: Long lifespan; safe for drinking water; recyclable.
Limitations: Expensive; not flexible, requiring more fittings.

What to Consider When Choosing Pipes:

Purpose: Is it for potable water, drainage, or sewage? Some materials are better suited for drinking water, while others are ideal for waste.

Soil Type: Acidic or alkaline soils may react with certain pipes, leading to corrosion. It’s important to understand the soil chemistry.

Water Temperature: Not all pipes can handle hot water. Ensure the material chosen can withstand the water’s temperature.

Budget: While some pipes are cost-effective upfront, they might have higher maintenance or replacement costs in the long run.

Longevity: Consider how long you expect the pipes to last. Some materials, like ductile iron or copper, have an extended lifespan compared to others.

Installation: Some pipes require specialized equipment or fittings. Always consider the installation process and associated costs.

Conclusion
Choosing the best pipe for underground water line installation is a blend of understanding the project’s specific needs and having insights into the benefits and limitations of different pipe materials. PVC and HDPE remain popular choices for their versatility and cost-effectiveness, while ductile iron and copper offer longevity and reliability, especially for main water lines.

Always keep local regulations and standards in mind, as these can influence the materials you’re allowed to use. By making an informed decision, construction professionals can ensure the longevity, efficiency, and safety of underground waterline systems.

Contact us to discuss your requirements of 18 Inch HDPE Pipe. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.