Advances in plastic pipe technology

One way to help make the nation’s piping systems more energy-efficient would be to minimize the number of leaks in pipe networks. Replacing and rehabilitating current water distribution systems made of traditional materials with plastic piping products could help reduce leakage and, in turn, improve energy efficiency. The installation of high-density polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride  piping products is generally much easier than that of traditional piping materials. Additionally, some below-ground installations of plastic piping can be done non-invasively, further minimizing construction time and energy use. At the same time, technological advances have made plastic piping products more economical. 

These polymer based materials are not subject to corrosion, which helps them maintain their flow capability over time and be less prone to leaks.The durability and reliability of plastic piping, and its ability to meet stringent water quality and fire performance standards, have made it an established alternative to more traditional piping products.Plastic piping products come in a variety of lengths, diameters, wall thicknesses, and pressure classes, along with a full complement of standard fittings, valves, and couplings. They are almost always compatible with other pipe materials and can be specified for system upgrades.Indoors, plastic piping can offer specifiers and building owners protection against costly leakage and breaks caused by corrosion. In public utilities applications, the plastic piping’s durability is reflected in its low break rates when compared to alternatives. 

For example, a National Research Council of Canada study found polyvinyl chloride water distribution pipe experienced on average  breaks per  annually, compared to  breaks for cast iron and  breaks for ductile iron.Plastic piping’s smooth surface is neither electrically conductive nor affected by extremely hard or soft water, pH changes, or chemical constituents of wastewater. Plastic piping resists attack by cleaners and other household chemicals, and can withstand pressure surges, shock impact, general wear, and abrasion. 

Plastic piping can deliver water as clean and pure as it receives, imparts no taste or odor, helps maintain uniform water temperature, preserves its high flow efficiency, and can cost less to maintain.As it is lightweight, plastic pipe costs less to ship, and generally can be fabricated, cut, and installed more quickly than alternatives.As with any construction material, it is advisable to follow the manufacturers’ specifications when installing a plastic piping system and to select a location protected from sharp objects, rough handling, and high heat sources. This allows the materials to be used in the most energy efficient manner, regardless of whether it is a residential project or a utilities application.