Polyethylene (PE) pipe manufacture commenced in Australia in the 1950’s with small diameter pipes used for rural, irrigation and industrial applications. Since then, PE use and the number of applications for PE pipes has grown enormously, due to its versatility and the advantages it offers over iron, steel and cement systems.
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The flexibility of PE pipe allows cost savings in installation. Trenchless technology can avoid the need for open trenches and reduce the disturbance to the public and environment. PE is often used in renovation of old pipelines as it can be readily inserted as a structural lining into an old pipeline. PE pipe can be supplied in straight lengths or in coils, reducing the need for joints and fittings. PE pipes can be jointed using butt and electrofusion techniques or with mechanical fittings.
There are a range of grades offered in PE products for different applications: PE 100- The latest generation polyethylene pipe grade has higher strength and toughness than earlier generation materials. PE 100 has an MRS of 10.0MPa at 20°C. HDPE – Used in production of polyethylene conduits. LDPE – Low density polyethylene has high flexibility and retention of properties at low temperatures. The main applications of LDPE are in micro irrigation, low pressure drip irrigation, rural irrigation and stock watering applications. PE pressure pipes are designated by their outside diameter or DN.
For water and other general pressure applications, the maximum allowable operating pressure (MAOP) with a minimum service coefficient is designated by the pressure rating or PN. The SDR of a PE pipe refers to its ‘Standard Dimension Ratio’ which describes the geometry of the pipe and is the ratio of the outside diameter and the minimum wall thickness. Pipes with a higher SDR have a thinner wall than pipes with a low SDR. The SDR can be related to the MAOP using the material MRS and the service coefficient appropriate for the application. A commitment to using only the highest standard of raw materials and the latest manufacturing technology has established Vinidex with a reputation as a quality supplier of polyethylene pipes in sizes ranging from 16mm to 1200mm in diameter.
PE pipes are used in a wide range of applications including:. Drainage. Compressed Air.