PE refers to a thermoplastic material made from the successful polymerization of ethylene. This plastic pipe type is often manufactured using extrusion in different sizes that range from ½ to 65. The material is typically available in a variety of rolled coils of multiple sizes. Generally, the small diameters are coiled in straight lengths. A PE pipe is readily available in different thicknesses and systems. That is why it can be used to design water pipes. The PE water supply pipe refers to a replacement product to the traditional steel pipe used for drinking water. The pipe comes with a smooth wall and a low frictional resistance. It is also easy to install and handle.
PE water supply pipes can withstand certain pressures. HDPE resin coupled with high molecular weight, as well as excellent mechanical properties are used. Its wear-resistant nature exceeds multiple metal materials such as bronze and steel. The service life of the product is 5 times that of the steel pipes. For that reason, it can safely be used for more than 40 years.
Pros of Using PE Water Pipes
Corrosion- this is one of the costly problems appended to metal piping systems. The process occurs inside and outside the walls of the pipe, thereby affecting the hydraulic efficiency.
Multiple cities treat the water they have in order to help rust as well as pitting that’s inevitable with the metal pipes. Others choose to invest in costly protection coating and sleeving in order to try and extend the shelf life of the pipe.
And unlike the common traditional metal infrastructure products, most PE water supply pipes do not really rust. This implies that they have an extended service life coupled with long term cost savings.
1. Fatigue Resistance
PE water pipes are flexible, as well as ductile. They are also not rigid and have an impeccable resistance to fatigue.
Unlike the commonly used pipes, PE water pipes are designed and then rated to help handle the occasional recurrence of water surge events, which happen to be common in a variety of distribution systems.
In actual sense, these pipes can enable you to make good use of the thinner HDPE pipe and not the other plastic piping.
2. Adaptability
PE water pipes can easily be joined with mechanical fittings. These fittings are often readily available and specific to your applications. A PE water pipe can be transitioned into and from a non-PE piping water system, thereby utilizing the mechanical joint adapters and stab fittings.
3. Eco-Friendly
Besides the outstanding characteristics, PE water pipes are largely recognized for their minimal effect on the environment. They take slightly lesser energy to create as compared to the non-plastic alternatives.
Other than that, the lightweight nature is something to consider factoring in since the flexibility of the PE water pipe, combined with the application of the heat fusion to the pipe, implies fewer fittings shall be needed.
Final Thoughts
PE water pipes combined with a heat fusion offer a leak-free connection. The PE water pipe does not really emit hazardous toxins into the air at the time of production.