The times when pipes were made exclusively of metal are long gone. Products made from these raw materials have been replaced by products made from new generation materials, acting as a worthy alternative to metal plumbing systems. Among such products, it is worth highlighting HDPE pipes.

Peculiarities

The demand for polyethylene pipes for water supply is due to the inherent advantages of the material, due to which the laying of pipelines on the ground or in the ground, providing the supply of cold and hot water, has become one of the main areas of use of the products, and easy installation of pipes allows you to assemble a water supply with your own hands.

The technology for producing polyethylene products requires strict compliance with GOST. The regulatory documentation contains tables containing technical characteristics of such products used in practice.

Taking into account the regulatory documentation regarding the qualities and characteristics of products, HDPE pipes must meet the following requirements:

• Regardless of the diameter and size, the outer and inner surface of the product must be absolutely smooth: the presence of bubbles, cracks or any other inclusions is not allowed;
• the entire range of products must be resistant to pressure of 20 atm.

Pipes that meet the above indicators are produced with a diameter from 16 to 1600 mm. The sale of goods takes place in coils of 100-200 meters or in individual products 12 m long. The products are painted black with longitudinal stripes around the circumference. Polyethylene pipes for cold water supply and hot water supply have certain parameters, based on which they are classified according to their scope of application.

Raw materials used to make products. PE 80 pipes are distinguished by high consumer properties, since they are able to withstand high internal pressure on the walls while maintaining structural integrity. Due to the characteristics of the material, they are used in the construction of pipelines with a diameter of no more than 90 mm.

Products for which PE 100 grade polyethylene was used provide good throughput to a product with a smaller diameter. They are in demand for arranging cold water supply communication circuits. PE 63 is used in residential and industrial construction for drainage of foundations, as well as basements in buildings. In most countries, almost 100% of water pipelines consist of polyethylene pipes.

Level of resistance of pipes to internal pressure. This coefficient is calculated based on the ratio of the diameter of the product to the wall thickness. Products with a lower index have higher strength.

Diameter of HDPE pipes. For use in the private sector, for example, when laying a water supply system in a summer cottage or in a country house, it is recommended to purchase products with a diameter of 25 or 32 mm.

It is worth highlighting the main advantages of HDPE pipes:

• resistance to aggressive environments, including salt, acid and alkali;
• durability - the average service life of products is about 50 years;
• inertness to the liquid medium that passes through communications;
• resistance to the formation and development of microorganisms on the walls;
• resistance to corrosion, which is important when laying a pipeline in soil that is characterized by high humidity, for example, in garden plots and cottages;
• light weight of the product, making installation easier;
• resistance to negative temperatures - polyethylene pipes retain their properties at -70 C, due to which they function effectively not only in summer, but also in winter.

To have a comprehensive understanding of the products, you should highlight some of the disadvantages of the products, which will be discussed below.

• The material has a low level of resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Based on this, it is recommended to install HDPE pipes in the soil or place them in special protective cases.
• The strength indicators of polyethylene products are inferior to those of metal pipes.

All products must be tested for compliance with state standards established for products used to install water supply systems.

Kinds

The range of such pipes presented on the modern building materials market is quite diverse. They are classified according to the area of ​​use, as well as technical characteristics, for example, by diameter, length and other parameters.

The main types of polyethylene pipes used for water supply can be distinguished:

• SDR 9;
• SDR 11;
• SDR 13.6;
• SDR 17;
• SDR 21;
• SDR 26.

The abbreviation is a dimensional characteristic of the product, which represents the ratio of the outer diameter of the pipe to the wall thickness: the thicker the wall of the pipe, the greater the load the material can withstand.

In addition, water supply pipes are divided into the following types:

• PE 100;
• PE 80;
• PE 63;
• PE 32.

However, among them, only the first two varieties are classified as HDPE pipes, since they have a higher density.

In addition, manufacturers provide the following options for HDPE pipes:

• pressure products;
• non-pressure products.

The latter type of pipes is used in the construction of gravity sewers or storm drains. They are also a fairly effective solution for laying communications. Their main difference is the fact that the products cannot be used when transporting liquid media under pressure.

Pressure structures are in demand when laying water or gas communications, in which the medium moves under a certain pressure.

Based on the cross-section, polyethylene products come in diameters from 10 mm to 1200 mm. The most popular are pipes with a diameter of 20 to 32 mm.

HDPE pipes can be distinguished by a stripe applied to the base. A blue line will indicate that the product is intended for transporting cold water, and a yellow stripe will indicate that the product is allowed for use in the gas pipeline system.

Scope of application

Thanks to the large list of positive features, such products have a wide range of applications in completely different sectors of life. \

Below are the main areas of application of the products.

• In the first place is the use of HDPE pipes in the sewer system, especially for domestic purposes. Almost all private sewer systems include technical pipes made of low-density polyethylene. It is worth noting that such pipes are used for external and internal installation.
• The products performed well, acting as a sheath for connecting electrical, television and power cables. They perform a protective function for communication channels and electrical wiring, since they reliably cover communications from mechanical damage.
• HDPE pipes are extremely popular when constructing greenhouses in agriculture of various sizes. In this area, products are used for laying systems for watering crops, moistening the soil, and also feeding plants with carbon dioxide.

• When creating temporary or permanent ice fields, low-density polyethylene pipes play a special role.
• The products act as formative elements in the monolithic structure of various types of buildings.
• Pipes with large diameters are necessary for arranging a drainage system and pressure water conduits.

Due to their high corrosion resistance, they can be successfully used in many other areas. Resistance to electrochemical corrosion is an important feature of products - such pipes are used in the construction of modern communication systems.

Installation

In order to increase the efficiency of installation work of polyethylene pipes, it is worth exploring options for connecting two products to each other.

The following methods are distinguished:

• welding;
• compression fittings;
• electrofusion welding;
• flange connection.

The first method is used in practice most often, since it has a high degree of reliability and forms a tight and durable seam between the structural elements of the water supply system. The welding technology is as follows: the ends of the products are subjected to heat treatment using a welding machine, after which they are fastened to each other - thanks to this, a connection is formed. This method is especially relevant when constructing an underground pipeline.

Fittings are the second most popular way of fixing products to each other. Today there are various compression parts on sale - tees, couplings, transition and corner fittings. Such diversity makes it possible to make the transition to threading. By using such elements, it is possible to lay a water supply system of any configuration. However, it is not recommended to connect communications that will be located underground with such fasteners, since the fittings require regular maintenance.

Electrofusion welding is performed using a special type of fittings - couplings. They include heating elements and terminals. The latter are needed for connection to heating equipment.

The process of connecting products occurs as follows: fittings are inserted into the pipes at both ends, after which a heating device is connected, due to which the spiral element melts the coupling and the base of the pipe. As a result, a strong permanent seam is formed at this place.

Flange mounting is used when switching to threading. This connection option is not widely used, however, when installing water pipes from HDPE pipes for cold water supply, flanges are very popular.

Light weight and a fairly simple technique that allows you to connect products into one integral structure make it possible to significantly reduce the time for installation work, as well as to perform it yourself without large financial costs and the use of specialized equipment.

The simple installation of HDPE pipes is also supported by the wide range of connecting elements that are used in conjunction with the pipes. They make it possible to lay systems of any configuration, and also allow you to connect elements to each other quickly and as reliably as possible. Experts highlight a number of general recommendations that will help you install pipes made of low-density polyethylene without the risk of making a mistake.

Several basic rules should be highlighted.

• All installation work should begin with the creation of a detailed layout of the future water supply system. The drawn up drawings will help you make the most accurate calculations of the number of pipes and connecting elements that will be needed for the main line.

• In the process of independently transporting purchased products, it is necessary to take precautions to avoid situations in which the products may be damaged by sharp objects or cutting tools.
• If you plan to lay HDPE pipes in the soil, you must first carry out preparatory measures related to arranging a sand cushion in the trench, the layer of which should not be less than 10 cm. As an alternative to sand, gravel can be used as a raw material for the cushion under the pipes. This additional layer is needed in order to protect the products from the risk of damage to the walls from the sharp edges of various objects that may end up in the ground. Before laying the pipes, the protective layer must be thoroughly compacted.
• Products through which cold water will be transported must be laid in such a way that the joints of the water supply elements are slightly recessed into the bulk cushion.

• Laying products involves several options for connecting elements to each other: permanent fixation and detachable fastening. The first option requires the presence of welding equipment. In some cases, the method of butt soldering pipes using electric couplings is used. This method is effective in the case of arranging pressure water supply systems when using products with a large cross-section.

In the second case, the work is carried out using flange or socket fittings, which contain an elastic seal. This option is acceptable for communications in which the movement of the liquid medium inside occurs without the participation of pressure (for pipes with a diameter of up to 35 mm). To connect pipes using the detachable method, there is no need to use specialized equipment or tools.

Polyethylene pipes are used very widely in construction. To understand the reason for such popularity of these products, it is worth understanding their characteristics. In this material we will talk about what types of HDPE pipes there are, what their features are, and how to determine how high quality the presented products are.

It is worth noting that the durability of polyethylene pipes directly depends on their performance characteristics. HDPE pipes are mainly used for laying communications, however, a specific type of product should be selected for each system.

For example, buying expensive pipes for pressure systems in order to run an electrical cable through them is absolutely impractical - the safety margin in this case is unreasonably large. Conversely, pipes designed to operate without high pressure will not be able to cope with high liquid pressure if they are laid in the main water supply.

The appropriate markings on the pipes, as well as the data specified by the manufacturers in the certificate, can help to correctly determine the type of pipe for a particular system. The availability of this information is regulated by the international standard ISO/TC SC4 No. 651 “Designation and marking of pipes and connecting parts”, as well as GOSTs.

The first opinion about the purpose of the pipes can be made by the marking strip applied along the length of the pipe. A blue stripe means that the pipe is designed to transport cold water, and a yellow stripe means for gas.

All other types of pipes do not have such special markings, however, this does not mean that they cannot be used for certain purposes.

Symbols for HDPE pipes

According to ISO, each linear meter of HDPE pipe has markings and symbols. This information is applied using the embossing method.

The marking contains the following information about the material:

• manufacturer's name;
• material type;
• production standard;
• ISO 9001 compliance;
• type of work environment;
• operating pressure;
• maximum pressure value;
• external diameter;
• the smallest wall thickness;
• production date and batch number.

Material grade

Most of the characteristics of HDPE polyethylene pipes are determined by the type of source material. Currently, mainly 4 types of polyethylene are used: PE63, PE80, PE 100, PE 100+. Sometimes you can find products made from polyethylene grade PE (PE) 33.

The letters PE or PE mean polyethylene itself, and the numbers indicate the minimum pressure in the pipes at which they can operate for a long time (about 50 years). This parameter is determined based on the wall thickness. Thus, values ​​of 63.80 and 100 mean 6.3, 8 and 10 MPa, respectively.

Standard sizes, diameters

International quality standard ISO 161-1.1996 “Thermoplastic pipes. Nominal pressures. Metric series" determines the diameters of HDPE pipes.

According to this document, the external diameters of HDPE pipes can range from 10-1200 mm. However, when selecting a pipe, the thickness of its wall is also important.

SDR Ratio

The system of SDR or Standard Dimension Ratio coefficients helps manufacturers select the acceptable ratio between wall thickness and pipe diameter.

Please note that there can be many such ratios, that is, pipes with the same cross-section may have several SDR coefficients, and therefore different wall thicknesses.

An increase in the coefficient value indicates a decrease in wall thickness. It affects the maximum pressure for which the pipe is designed. A thicker layer of material can withstand greater loads.

However, the production of products with thicker walls leads to a reduction in the internal cross-section of the pipe and a decrease in its throughput per unit time.

When selecting the optimal diameters of polyethylene pipes for water supply, it is important to take into account not only the wall thickness, but also the installation method. The fact is that the SDR parameter determines both the pressure level and the annular strength of the products.

Thus, if this value can be neglected when laying a pipeline externally, then when placing it in the thickness of the soil, one must take into account that in addition to the internal pressure, the earth located on top of it will also put pressure on the pipe.

Therefore, if you do not plan to build additional protective structures, such as boxes, then the dimensions of polyethylene pipes for water supply should be selected slightly larger. This will provide an acceptable throughput along with sufficient wall thickness.

Please note that you should be especially careful when choosing the SDR coefficient for a large-diameter HDPE pipe. The fact is that with a low coefficient, liquid transportation may not be carried out in full due to a decrease in the throughput of the pipe. And if the SDR value is too high, there is a high risk of pipeline breakthrough due to too thin pipe walls and exceeding the permissible pressure.

In addition, the cross-section of the HDPE pipe and the thickness of its walls affect the resulting weight of the entire structure. Therefore, take this into account when designing support structures.

Specifications

It is worth noting that the performance characteristics of HDPE pipes depend on the quality of the original polyethylene. Properties such as thermal expansion, flexibility and fluidity are obtained due to the relative softness of the raw material.

In this regard, polyethylene pipes are often unacceptable in some industries where other products are used successfully. And in some cases they are the optimal solution. In particular, the flexibility of the material makes it possible to lay pipelines under roads with heavy traffic, railway crossings or parking lots, as well as in a number of other cases.

HDPE pipes are considered the most popular in the following cases:

• external water supply;
• internal water supply;
• laying internal sewerage;
• external sewage system of pressure and non-pressure type;
• gas transportation.

Let us note the fact that polyethylene is microporous in its structure. Consequently, during operation, air leaks into the water supply system, especially if it is PE 63.

This phenomenon is accompanied by an increased noise level when using pipes.

Unfortunately, there is no escape from this – this is the source material. However, if you install air traps, cutoffs or other similar devices, unpleasant phenomena can be minimized.

Such phenomena are absent in pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene, however, they cost much more.

The most appropriate is the use of HDPE pipes in heating and hot water supply systems.

However, to compensate for the thermal expansion of products in such cases, one of the following approaches is used:

• open pipeline laying is carried out on sliding fasteners;
• provide compensation loops that absorb the increase in length;
• During production, special additives are added to raw materials to reduce the coefficient of linear expansion.

What are the advantages of pipes

The advantage of HDPE PE pipes is considered to be low thermal conductivity, which reduces heat loss during transportation to a minimum. Consequently, HDPE pipes with low linear expansion coefficients can be used for heating risers.

As for a significant decrease in temperatures, the plasticity of PE pipes makes it easy to cope with freezing of water. In this case, the pipe expands to the required size without cracking, and after the water defrosts, it shrinks again to its original size.

At the same time, laying external water pipes in an open way still requires their mandatory insulation and taking into account the depth of soil freezing. It is impossible to predict how many times the pipes will be able to withstand such overloads, and even if the liquid freezes, the communications will be unusable for some time.

Thus, selecting pipes with the right characteristics will allow you to build a high-quality and efficient system for the circulation of liquid and gaseous substances, including aggressive ones and those with high ambient temperatures.

HDPE pipe sizes

Already now, the diameter of HDPE pipes allows the use of this material in almost all areas where it is necessary to organize a communications system. Such polymer products are used to supply water, some active compounds, and even to protect cables and electrical circuits. During their existence, these pipes have undergone a lot of changes and therefore, before purchasing this material, it should be carefully studied.

What is HDPE pipe

The abbreviation HDPE itself stands for low-density polyethylene. It is made by polarizing ethylene gas, producing a complex substance with certain qualities. It was they who determined the area of ​​​​use of this material. Therefore, no matter what sizes of HDPE pipes you come across, they will always be:

• excellent resistance to direct contact with water, without oxidation or the use of a protective layer;
• have a long service life, which according to some sources exceeds 50 years;
• resistant to aggressive acidic environments;
• withstand large external impacts, including single loads at the moment of impact;
• have adhesive properties, preventing the formation of blockages as a result of sticking.

Given these characteristics, this material is excellent for creating water supply and sewerage systems. If we take into account its long service life, it becomes clear that these pipes can significantly reduce costs both during installation and subsequent operation.

Important! In some cases, pipes made of this material are called plastic. This is partly true, but technically illiterate. Therefore, for ease of communication, they are usually called polyethylene.

Range of HDPE pipes

Typically, the diameter of HDPE pipes is selected according to a special table. It indicates all the necessary parameters so that a person can find the material most suitable for his technical conditions.

However, it must be taken into account that there are several standards that define the parameters of pipes, which all manufacturers must adhere to.

GOST 18599-2001

This standard regulates the manufacture of pressure products. These pipes are used in the most extensive areas and the list of their sizes is simply huge. It depends on the specific purpose and technical need. Therefore, it makes sense to describe only extreme values.

Important! PE pipe is often referred to as HDPE, but this is incorrect. This marking is characteristic of another standard intended for sewer systems.

Pipes deserve special attention:

• PE 32, capable of having a diameter from 10 to 160 mm with a wall thickness from 2 to 20.8;
• PE 63 with wall thickness 2.0 - 57.2 mm with a diameter of 16 - 1200;
• PE 80: diameter 16 - 1200, walls 2.0 - 59.3;
• PE 100: diameter 32 - 1000, wall thickness 3.0 - 59.3.

Table 1. Dimensions and maximum operating pressures of pipes made of polyethylene PE 80

Average outer diameter		SDR 26 S 12.5		SDR 21 S 10		SDR 17.6 S 8.3		SDR 17 S 8		SDR 13.6 S 6.3		SDR 11 S 5		SDR 9 S 4
		0,5		0,63		0,8		0,8		1,0		1,25		1,6
		Wall thickness
nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off
16	+0,3	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0*	+0,4	1,2
20	+0,3	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0*	+0,4	2,3	+0,5	1,2
25	+0,3	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0*	+0,4	2,3	+0,5	2,8	+0,5	1,2
32	+0,3	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0*	+0,4	2,4	+0,5	3,0	+0,5	3,6	+0,6	1,3
40	+0,4	-	-	2,0*	+0,4	-	-	2,4	+0,5	3,0	+0,5	3,7	+0,6	4,5	+0,7	1,4
50	+0,5	2,0	+0,4	2,4	+0,5	-	-	3,0	+0,5	3,7	+0,6	4,6	+0,7	5,6	+0,9	1,4
63	+0,6	2,5	+0,5	3,0	+0,5	3,6	+0,6	3,8	+0,6	4,7	+0,8	5,8	+0,9	7,1	+1,1	1,5
75	+0,7	2,9	+0,5	3,6	+0,6	4,3	+0,7	4,5	+0,7	5,6	+0,9	6,8	+1,1	8,4	+1,3	1,6
90	+0,9	3,5	+0,6	4,3	+0,7	5,2	+0,8	5,4	+0,9	6,7	+1,1	8,2	+1,3	10,1	+1,6	1,8
110	+1,0	4,2	+0,7	5,3	+0,8	6,3	+1,0	6,6	+1,0	8,1	+1,3	10,0	+1,5	12,3	+1,9	2,2
125	+1,2	4,8	+0,8	6,0	+0,9	7,1	+1,1	7,4	+1,2	9,2	+1,4	11,4	+1,8	14	+2,1	2,5
140	+1,3	5,4	+0,9	6,7	+1,1	8,0	+1,2	8,3	+1,3	10,3	+1,6	12,7	+2,0	15,7	+2,4	2,8
160	+1,5	6,2	+1,0	7,7	+1,2	9,1	+1,4	9,5	+1,5	11,8	+1,8	14,6	+2,2	17,9	+2,7	3,2
180	+1,7	6,9	+1,1	8,6	+1,3	10,2	+1,6	10,7	+1,7	13,3	+2,0	16,4	+2,5	20,1	+3,1	3,6
200	+1,8	7,7	+1,2	9,6	+1,5	11,4	+1,8	11,9	+1,8	14,7	+2,3	18,2	+2,8	22,4	+3,4	4,0
225	+2,1	8,6	+1,3	10,8	+1,7	12,8	+2,0	13,4	+2,1	16,6	+2,5	20,5	+3,1	25,2	+3,8	4,5
250	+2,3	9,6	+1,5	11,9	+1,8	14,2	+2,2	14,8	+2,3	18,4	+2,8	22,7	+3,5	27,9	+4,2	5,0
280	+2,6	10,7	+1,7	13,4	+2,1	15,9	+2,4	16,6	+2,5	20,6	+3,1	25,4	+3,9	31,3	+4,7	9,8
315	+2,9	12,1	+1,9	15,0	+2,3	17,9	+2,7	18,7	+2,9	23,2	+3,5	28,6	+4,3	35,2	+5,3	11,1
355	+3,2	13,6	+2,1	16,9	+2,6	20,1	+3,1	21,1	+3,2	26,1	+4,0	32,2	+4,9	39,7	+6,0	12,5
400	+3,6	15,3	+2,3	19,1	+2,9	22,7	+3,5	23,7	+3,6	29,4	+4,5	36,3	+5,5	44,7	+6,8	14,0
450	+4,1	17,2	+2,6	21,5	+3,3	25,5	+3,9	26,7	+4,1	33,1	+5,0	40,9	+6,2	50,3	+7,6	15,6
500	+4,5	19,1	+2,9	23,9	+3,6	28,3	+4,3	29,7	+4,5	36,8	+5,6	45,4	+6,9	55,8	+8,4	17,5
560	+5,0	21,4	+3,3	26,7	+4,1	31,7	+4,8	33,2	+5,0	41,2	+6,2	50,8	+7,7	-	-	19,6
630	+5,7	24,1	+3,7	30,0	+4,5	35,7	+5,4	37,4	+5,7	46,3	+7,0	57,2	+8,6	-	-	22,1
710	+6,4	27,2	+4,1	33,9	+5,1	40,2	+6,1	42,1	+6,4	52,2	+7,9	-	-	-	-	24,9
800	+7,2	30,6	+4,6	38,1	+5,8	45,3	+6,8	47,4	+7,2	58,8	+8,9	-	-	-		28,0
900	+8,1	34,4	+5,2	42,9	+6,5	51,0	+7,7	53,3	+8,0	-	-	-	-	-	-	31,5
1000	+9,0	38,2	+5,8	47,7	+7,2	56,6	+8,5	59,3	+8,9	-	-	-	-	-	-	35,0
1200	+10,0	45,9	+6,9	57,2	+8,6	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	42,0
* Pipes are assigned to the corresponding size range SDR (S) conditionally; The minimum pipe wall thickness of 2.0 mm is established based on the pipe welding conditions.

Table 2. Dimensions and maximum operating pressures of polyethylene pipes PE 100

In millimeters

Average outer diameter		SDR 17 S 8		SDR 13.6 S 6.3		SDR 11 S 5		Ovality after extrusion, no more
		Maximum operating water pressure at 20 °C, MPa
		1		1,25		1,6
		Wall thickness
nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off	nominal	prev off
32	+0,3	-	-	-	-	3,0	+0,5	1,3
40	+0,4	-	-	3	+0,5	3,7	+0,6	1,4
50	+0,5	3,0	+0,5	3,7	+0,6	4,6	+0,7	1,4
63	+0,6	3,8	+0,6	4,7	+0,8	5,8	+0,9	1,5
75	+0,7	4,5	+0,7	5,6	+0,9	6,8	+1,1	1,6
90	+0,9	5,4	+0,9	6,7	+1,1	8,2	+1,3	1,8
110	+1,0	6,6	+1,0	8,1	+1,3	10,0	+1,5	2,2
125	+1,2	7,4	+1,2	9,2	+1,4	11,4	+1,8	2,5
140	+1,3	8,3	+1,3	10,3	+1,6	12,7	+2,0	2,8
160	+1,5	9,5	+1,5	11,8	+1,8	14,6	+2,2	3,2
180	+1,7	10,7	+1,7	13,3	+2,0	16,4	+2,5	3,6
200	+1,8	11,9	+1,8	14,7	+2,3	18,2	+2,8	4,0
225	+2,1	13,4	+2,1	16,6	+2,5	20,5	+3,1	4,5
250	+2,3	14,8	+2,3	18,4	+2,8	22,7	+3,5	5,0
280	+2,6	16,6	+2,5	20,6	+3,1	25,4	+3,9	9,8
315	+2,9	18,7	+2,9	23,2	+3,5	28,6	+4,3	11,1
355	+3,2	21,1	+3,2	26,1	+4,0	32,2	+4,9	12,5
400	+3,6	23,7	+3,6	29,4	+4,5	36,3	+5,5	14,0
450	+4,1	26,7	+4,1	33,1	+5,0	40,9	+6,2	15,6
500	+4,5	29,7	+4,5	36,8	+5,6	45,4	+6,9	17,5
560	+5,0	33,2	+5,0	41,2	+6,2	50,8	+7,9	19,6
630	+5,7	37,4	+5,7	46,3	+7,0	57,2	+8,6	22,1
710	+6,4	42,1	+6,4	52,2	+7,8	-	-	24,9
800	+7,2	47,4	+7,2	58,8	+8,9	-	-	28,0
900	+8,1	53,3	+8,0	-	-	-	-	31,5
1000	+9,0	59,3	+8,9	-	-	-	-	35,0

SDR coefficient for HDPE pipes

In addition to the size of HDPE pipes, the SDR coefficient is also important. It is determined by the ratio of the wall size to the circumference of the pipes. Moreover, this value characterizes the pressure that the pipe itself can withstand.

Weight of HDPE pipes

Usually, such a parameter as the weight of HDPE pipes is not paid attention to. This is due to the fact that these products are much lighter than metal structures of the same type. Therefore, this parameter is often neglected. However, its importance should not be underestimated, especially if a large batch of materials is being transported or a structure with minimal loads is being developed.

When purchasing products such as pipes, it is very important to pay attention to the product specification in order to clarify all the characteristics. If you cannot figure out the parameters yourself or do not know some values, then our specialists can tell you which pipe is best suited for you, focusing on the area of ​​application.

Free-flow pipes made of low-pressure PE are most often used to protect cables when they are installed underground, laying sewers, and organizing drainage. In other words, they can be used in areas where there is no pressure of liquids or gases inside the pipe. Gravity pipes are considered technical and cannot be used to supply drinking water or organize a gas pipeline. What determines the scope of application of free-flow pipes?

First of all, the characteristics are affected by HDPE pipe diameters: This determines the throughput and maximum volume of laid cables, as well as flexibility. Large diameter HDPE pipes (110 mm and 160 mm) are used to drain sewerage and lay cables under the road. A small diameter is used if you need to lay wires at home or in the ground.

Common outer diameters of HDPE pipes.

Factory marking of pipes is carried out according to the outer diameter, which is what you need to focus on. , produced by our factory, varies from 20 mm to 160 mm, and the choice of wall thickness depends on the needs of the client. If the exact size is unknown, you can focus on common diameters:

• Small diameter pipes (from 20 mm to 63 mm) are used for laying electrical cables in houses and for laying in the ground;
• Pipe diameter from 50 mm to 75 mm is suitable for draining wastewater from a bathtub, washing machine, sink and other plumbing fixtures. If we talk about cable insulation, these diameters are used to protect lamp posts and lay wires along the road;
• One of the most common is a pipe with a diameter of 110 mm - it is used for sewerage and drainage of toilet bowls. This diameter has earned no less popularity when installing electrical and fiber optic highways;
• Pipes with a diameter of 160 mm are recommended for use in houses of five floors and above (for sewerage). In addition, such a pipe is used for laying cables in the ground, including under roads.

But it is worth considering that these are external indicators. In addition to different diameters, HDPE pipes have different wall thicknesses, which determine whether technical pipes belong to one of six types:

• Light and medium-light;
• Medium and light medium;
• Medium-heavy and heavy.

The thicker the walls, the heavier the pipe. The thickness of the pipe walls is responsible for the strength and flexibility of the pipes. Thus, a pipe with a diameter of 110 mm can have walls as thick as 4.2 mm or 10 mm. The thicker the walls, the higher the strength, while the internal diameter of the pipe and flexibility are smaller.

What does the internal diameter of HDPE pipes affect?

First of all, internal diameter of HDPE pipes affects throughput. In other words, the larger it is, the greater the volume of liquid that can pass through the pipe at a time. So, despite the fact that the bathtub holds 100-250 liters of water, due to the small drain hole, pipes with an internal diameter of about 32 - 50 mm can be used.

But the toilet has a wide drain hole into which a large amount of water enters. Therefore, it is advisable to connect pipes with an internal diameter of up to 11 cm to it. An internal diameter of pipes greater than 11 cm is justified for organizing the removal of sewage from the building.

It is worth paying attention to the fact that in any case there are air masses in the pipes, which, if the pipe diameter is insufficient, can cause a number of inconveniences. This includes improper movement of wastewater and a constant unpleasant odor.

If HDPE pipes are used for laying cables, the internal diameter is calculated based on the number and thickness of the cables that will be placed in it.

Table of HDPE pipe diameters.

The internal and external diameters of HDPE pipes are presented in a wide range from 10 mm to 400 mm. In addition to standard diameters, there are many pipes with non-standard sizes. The table below shows the main diameters of pipes produced at our plant.

Production of HDPE pipes of any diameter.

In addition to common sizes, pipes can be not only standard. Our company’s own production allows us to produce HDPE pipes of any diameter - both external and internal, with thick or thin walls. In addition, pipes can be of any shape - round, square and even triangular. It all depends on the needs, the scope of application and the exact characteristics specified in the project.

It is worth considering that when installing such pipes using fittings, finding the required sizes of fasteners can be problematic. Therefore, pipes of non-standard shape are often connected by welding. However, recently, fittings have become available, including for the installation of pipes with non-standard diameters, which makes the installation of electrical and drain communications even easier. And in many cases it is possible to order a batch of fittings with individual parameters.

HDPE pipes of large diameters in sections.

HDPE pipes with a diameter of 20-75 mm can be produced both in coils and in sections, but pipes with a diameter of 90 mm or more are produced only in sections. This is due to the fact that wall thickness and flexibility depend on the diameter. Accordingly, the thicker the wall, the more difficult it is to roll such a pipe into a coil. At the same time, the weight also changes significantly - for example, if a meter of pipe with a diameter of 75 mm weighs about a kilogram, then a 110 mm pipe will weigh a little less than two.

HDPE pipes of large diameters are produced in lengths up to 12 meters, but shorter lengths are possible.

HDPE pipes of small diameter in coils.

Pipes of small diameter (from 20 mm to 75 mm) are much more convenient to store in coils or on reels. Due to their small diameter and wall thickness, they are quite flexible and are produced in sections only upon request. The standard length of the bay is 100 meters and 200 meters. In addition, pipes are sometimes produced in coils up to 1000 meters long. For a small diameter pipe, the sections can be of different lengths.

Wholesale and retail sale of HDPE pipes of various diameters.

Depending on the quantity of products ordered, there is a system of wholesale discounts. We also engage in retail sales of HDPE pipes of all diameters.

The production of technical pipes from HDPE takes place in the Moscow region, which allows us to significantly reduce the cost and, as a result, the final price for the buyer. At the same time, delivery is possible both to Moscow and throughout the Russian Federation.

Selling HDPE pipes directly from the manufacturer means fast production, prompt deliveries without delays and very affordable prices!

Pressure pipes made of low-density polyethylene have become an advantageous alternative to metal and concrete. HDPE pipes, which are a plastic polymer, are successfully used in European countries, which are known for their desire to use environmentally friendly equipment. Thanks to their outstanding technical characteristics and affordable cost, such products can be safely installed in your home or business.

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1. Where are HDPE pipes used?

The areas of application of low-density polyethylene are varied - from the transportation of drinking water to the needs of the technical industry. The most popular area of ​​their application is drinking water supply. It uses pressure products that are marked with blue stripes on the outer surface. Municipal organizations install entire highways from HDPE.

Products are also in demand in other areas:

• Gas supply. Marked with yellow stripes. In operation they behave better than metal ones due to increased wall density and fire safety.
• Sewerage. Excellent for drains due to their durable base, resistance to aggressive environments and sound insulation.
• Drainage. The high technical capabilities of the material ensure uninterrupted operation on site and reliable control of groundwater.
• Extractive industry. Polyethylene is indispensable in the manufacture of casing pipelines for wells and pits.
• Electrical insulation. A durable fireproof and anti-corrosion base serves to protect electrical wires from external factors.

In addition, HDPE technical pipes can be used for pumps from treatment plants, gravity sewerage, irrigation and land reclamation systems.

2. Types and differences of HDPE pipes

PE pipes are produced in a huge range of types, which are classified according to various criteria - scope of use, purpose, physical properties, manufacturing method. The entire model range is divided into pressure and non-pressure varieties. Also, any product is marked with a name and article number, of which there are four:

1. PE-63 - pipes for laying electrical wires underground, storm drainage, operating pressure is 6.3 atmospheres.
2. PE-80 is an improved type, intended for pressure applications, pressure - 10 atmospheres.
3. PE-100 is the most powerful type for drinking water and household needs, has a pressure of 16 atmospheres.
4. PE-100 PROSAFE - thanks to the reinforced protective coating, they are characterized by increased strength and wear resistance.

Free-flow HDPE pipes are not marked with stripes and are made from recycled material PE-32, PE-63, PE-80 and PE-100. Products may only be used for technical purposes. Based on the thickness of the walls, there are several types:

• lungs (L);
• medium-light (SL);
• medium (C);
• light-medium (OS);
• medium-heavy (MT).

Based on the manufacturing method, there are two types of HDPE technical pipes:

• corrugated - have two layers, as well as full or partial perforation;
• insulated - resistant to electrical overvoltage, treated with filter materials.

3. Specifications

A polyethylene pipeline is a practical and durable solution for a country house, summer cottage or enterprise. This material, unlike metal, cast iron or concrete, has an even, smooth internal structure, which ensures a fast and uninterrupted flow of liquid substances. In addition, due to the absence of roughness, the accumulation of silt sediment inside is impossible. Polyethylene is not subject to corrosion - this property reliably protects the surface from rust.

Different manufacturers produce various modifications of HDPE pipes, each of which is indicated in the technical characteristics of the product:

• SDR is a strength indicator obtained from the ratio of diameter to wall thickness;
• PN is the value that determines the operating pressure at an external air temperature of +20°C;
• S - strength classification, or the ratio of stress to constant pressure;
• MRS is an indicator of long-term strength, measured in MPa and determining the properties of the product.

The marking also indicates the wall thickness, diameter and length of the product in millimeters. Each modification is characterized by special norms of indicators. The standards are established according to SNiP standards and cannot be changed by the manufacturer independently.

SNiP standards for pipes made of low-density polyethylene are shown in the table

HDPE pipes are sold in individual lengths or coils. There are size standards established by GOST 18599-2001. The document regulates certain dimensions of the coil and the pipe itself, depending on its external diameter. The most popular and in demand dimensions are shown in the table:

Dimensions according to GOST 18599-2001

Diameter (mm)	Coil length (m)	Pipe size(cm)
20	50-100	100
25	50-100	110
32	100	120
40	100	140
50	100	150
63	100	200
75	100/50	220/190
90	100/50	270/250
110	100/50	300/280
120	12	600-1200

In Russia there are several hundred companies that produce products from low-density polyethylene. Most of them are branches or distributors of official representative offices.

The largest manufacturers in Russia:

1. "Holding-Plastpolymer". The plant has been operating since 2009 and produces polymer products and fittings. Cooperates with the Finnish company Borealis-AG. There are branch stores in Izhevsk, Ufa, and Moscow.
2. Cyklon. The Kudinovsky pipe plant Cyklon was founded in 2005 and is engaged in the manufacture and supply of polyethylene sanitary ware throughout Russia, including HDPE pipes with a diameter of 25 mm. The company has its own laboratory with Liansu lines, as well as an efficient logistics department.
3. "Polytek-Pipe". The company has been on the market since 1999, specializing in the production of equipment for water supply, sewerage pipelines, and heating. All product tests are carried out in our own laboratory.
4. "Wavine Nord-Plumbing". The organization opened in 2005 as a manufacturer of polyethylene products. For the last few years, the company has been the official representative of Dutch HDPE pipes of the Wavine brand.
5. "Nashorn". One of the largest suppliers of HDPE products in Russia, operating since 2004. The concern's specialists use the latest technological developments in their work. The company exports throughout the country.

When choosing the most suitable option, you should pay attention to the Cyklon brand. The company's products are distinguished by a favorable combination of affordable prices and improved performance characteristics. The advantages of products of this brand include the following:

• the use of high-quality polyethylene, which eliminates the risk of product deformation;
• use of environmentally friendly materials in production;
• resistance of pipes to aggressive substances, temperature changes, alkalis and acids;
• hermetic connection of elements that do not allow air or liquid to pass through;
• a simple mechanism that simplifies installation and allows for channel-free installation;
• low thermal conductivity and stable sound insulation of products;
• maintaining the integrity of polyethylene when the liquid freezes in the cavity of the HDPE pipe;
• increased wear resistance, fire resistance, impact resistance and rust resistance.

Taking into account the long service life and low cost of products, one can be convinced of the high technical properties and beneficial functions of polyethylene products.

6. Installation features

A feature of HDPE pipes is ease of installation. Thanks to its light weight, simple design and plastic structure, you can install it yourself without the involvement of a specialist or special equipment. There is a different installation method for each application.

All polyethylene parts are connected in three ways:

• Butt welding. It is used for pipes with a diameter of at least 5 cm. It is necessary to trim the chamfers of the ends by 2-3 mm and degrease them, then heat the ends with a welding machine and connect them until they cool completely.
• Fitting. Compression sockets are used for diameters from 2 to 31 cm. Degrease the ends, put a nut and two washers on them, and attach a rubber or polyurethane gasket. Insert the end of the pipe into the fitting and tighten the nut.
• Metal flanges. They hold most effectively on parts with a diameter of 4 cm or more. It is necessary to weld polyethylene bushings to the ends, and then install a flange connection.

Plumbing in an apartment or house usually does not require large-scale fittings; a pipeline with a diameter of 25 mm or more is sufficient. To install a home water supply, you can secure the pipes with fittings. For sewer and gas pipelines, it is recommended to use compression fittings or flanged parts. It is better to strengthen electric mains by butt welding.

7. Prices for HDPE pipes

The cost of polyethylene products from different manufacturers differs depending on the raw materials, production technology, strength and size. Some companies package HDPE pipes in coils of 50, 100 and 200 meters, others sell sections from 2 to 600 meters in length. The table shows prices for HDPE pipes of the best-selling sizes:

Prices for HDPE pipes (RUB)

Manufacturer	Diameter (mm)		SDR-11
		PN-10	PN-16	PN-20
Wavine	32	9,60	10,04	11,60
	110	81,60	118,40	139,60
Nashorn	32	27,30	48,60	85,40
	110	100,01	151,00	600,00
Polytek-Pipe	32	92,70	96,70	114,20
	110	187,80	211,30	245,60
	25	35,66	49,70	76,30
Cyclon	32	52,50	74,10	94,50
	50	115,00	145,80	177,10
Holding-Plastpolymer	32	33,30	46,20	54,30
	110	74,10	114,90	182,40

HDPE pipes make it possible to implement modern systems for providing the population with water, gas and other communications. Thanks to their excellent production properties, they are gradually replacing metal pipelines. And this has a lot of advantages - starting from a favorable price and ending with an extended service life.