To organize the water supply of a residential building or construction object is an important task. To conduct water, you need to choose high-quality pipes. For these purposes, polyethylene pipes are often used. The material is divided into several types, each of which has its pros and cons.
Polyethylene, as a rule, is more often used in the form of a film or packaging. But pipes from this material appeared relatively recently. This also applies to the Russian market of building materials.
Where is used
There are many areas of application for polyethylene pipes. They are used for plumbing systems in residential premises. Suitable for cold water, including drinking. They are also used for pressure or pressureless sewage.
Pipes made of polyethylene were also widely used in agriculture: drainage systems, systems for irrigation of crops, land reclamation.
The industrial side of the use of such pipes is also not limited to water supply only. HDPE pipes are used in the construction of medium and low pressure gas pipelines, for the removal and transportation of chemical compounds, and in factories - for the transportation of process liquids.
Dimensions
Polyethylene pipes are divided into three types in size:
- Water polyethylene pipes with a diameter of 1 cm to 120 cm along the outer edge.
- The diameter of the outer surface is from 0.3 mm to 6 mm.
- Dimensions according to GOST 18599-2001.
Until recently, steel pipes were more popular, but HDPE pipe plants mastered the technology for producing large-sized pipes. This suggests that in the future this material will be able to completely replace steel piping systems in production.
The size and diameter of the pipes are usually indicated by the manufacturer on each meter of the product. This is necessary so that the buyer can see the necessary information even after the required pipe length is cut off.
Kinds
Pipes are divided by the method of their use. Below is a list of all types of polyethylene pipes:
- Pressure pipes for external water supply: they are used for repair and construction of water supply systems for household purposes, they are also suitable for the discharge of water and other gaseous and chemical substances to which the material is resistant.
- Profiled non-pressure pipes for wastewater and sewage: used for sewer systems. This type of polyethylene is more heat-resistant and is able to withstand temperatures above 40 degrees.
- Spiral twisted pipes for wastewater and sewage: made from polyethylene pipe grades PE100, PE800 and PE63. They are used in the construction of networks where a large diameter pipe is required.
These are the main types of polyethylene water pipes, which are the most common among consumers.
What GOST corresponds
GOST of polyethylene water pipes has the number 18599-2001. The document establishes the following requirements for the material: the walls of all produced pipes, both inside and outside, must not have foreign inclusions, cracks, chips, air bubbles. Small deviations in the form of longitudinal stripes or waves are also allowed, but they should not affect the thickness, and the dimensions should be within the normal range.
The color of the products may be black or gray. Water pipes are indicated by three blue stripes on a black background. If the stripes are yellow, then the pipes are used for gas pipeline systems. In some cases, the water pipes may be red.
Markings
The production of polyethylene water pipes involves the need for labeling. Most often, this is a record that contains all the information about the product. Here should be the following order:
- The literal combination of PE means that the pipes are made of polyethylene.
- Immediately after the capital letters, there is a number that indicates the minimum strength index (PE100, PE80, etc.).
- The following designation (SDR) indicates the relative amount of pressure that the pipe can withstand, the load.
- Diameter on the outer edge and wall thickness.
- It is registered in the register what purpose the pipe has: technical or drinking.
- GOST to which the product belongs.
- Information about the manufacturer: country, company name.
Specifications
Technical characteristics of polyethylene water pipes are justified by the properties of the material. Polyethylene is resistant to corrosion, but not able to withstand high temperatures. Technical characteristics are the most important for the selection of water pipes made of polyethylene.
The operating temperature of all types of polyethylene pipes cannot exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The lower temperature limit is 0. Of course, the material will not lose its operational properties, but the water will freeze. The question of how to heat a polyethylene water pipe if it is frozen has the same solution as with other types of pipes. The most important thing is that the water frozen inside melts and starts moving.
The manufacturer indicates the maximum pressure on the pipe, since this parameter depends on the following factors: brand of polyethylene and its density; Wall thickness; pipe diameter (the larger the pipe diameter, the larger the working surface, that is, the pressure on the walls can be greater).
The diameter of the pipe depends on the application. For residential buildings, the diameter of the water pipe equal to 20 mm is considered ideal. Large diameter pipes are used for water supply systems in a large area and in the construction of highways. Also often used for well walls. Acts and regulatory documents establish a pipe diameter of 10 mm to 1200 mm, and a thickness of 2 mm to 6 cm.
The weight of the pipe is determined by its size. The larger the diameter, the greater the weight. Installation of large polyethylene pipes is carried out using special equipment.
As for the safety margin, if the manufacturer indicates the maximum pressure, then in fact the pipes are able to withstand more. This is necessary for operational safety. The safety factor should be indicated on the pipe at each meter.
The average service life of polyethylene pipes starts from 50+, the maximum period is not calculated. But by its properties, the material promises to be durable over a much longer period.
Advantages
Compared to other types of pipes (steel, metal), polyethylene have many advantages:
- Cost. Due to the fact that inexpensive raw materials are used for production, the prices of such pipes are not very high.
- Long term of operation. Polyethylene is not subject to rust, corrosion and environmental influences.
- Ease of installation is determined by the low weight of the material.
- Welding is cheaper than connecting metal pipes.
- Tightness remains unchanged (even if the water inside freezes). Possess high frost resistance.
- If polyethylene pipes are used as pressure pipes, this will become an additional protection against bacteria and microorganisms.
disadvantages
Like any materials, polyethylene water pipes also have pros and cons. But the number of advantages is many times greater than the disadvantages. About what disadvantages this material has, it is worth learning before buying:
- Low technological characteristics that are inferior to steel or cast iron pipes.
- Installation work is best entrusted to a specialist with experience. If you want to cope with the work yourself, then you should choose polyethylene pipes with a fitting connection.
- Unstable to sunlight, which can adversely affect the operational properties. Ultraviolet radiation can destroy the integrity of polyethylene.
The presence of deficiencies suggests that the material is not ideal. But the advantages are still superior. What to choose? You decide.
DIY pipe joint
Installation of pipes for water supply is simple. If you have experience connecting other pipes, then you can handle it here. The main methods (how to connect polyethylene water pipes): welding and fastenings on fittings.
For welding pipes, it is necessary to use a special apparatus. This is quite expensive, it is better to invite a person who does this on a professional level to carry out the work.
But most products, whose diameter does not exceed 16 cm, are equipped with a fitting connection system. This greatly facilitates the installation of polyethylene water pipes.
When installing polyethylene pipes, it is worth considering some features. For example, laying is best done under a concrete coating or cement screed. This is necessary to protect the pipeline. Products will not overheat in the sun or freeze in the cold.
To cut pipes evenly and without chips, it is worth using a special pipe cutter. If you need to make a bend, then a pipe bender will come in handy.
When conducting a water supply, it is worth taking care of the insulation in advance. This will protect against further mold and dampness in the room.
Expert Advice
The water supply system (whether it is for home or in the workplace) requires a careful and responsible approach. It is very important that the water is clean, free from impurities and odors. Polyethylene pipes will cope with this task perfectly.
Material properties allow the use of pipes in all weather conditions and climatic zones. They do not rot and corrode, and are resistant to mold, moisture and fungi. The service life exceeds the mark of 50 years.
Conclusion
The quality of the water supplied largely depends on the pipes through which it moves. Steel and metal fade into the background. To replace them came water pipes made of polyethylene. In their properties, they are no worse than their predecessors, and in a sense even surpassed them.
Experts have long been talking about the fact that in the near future PE pipes will completely replace steel and cast iron. The first step to this has already been taken.
If you want to create a durable and inexpensive water supply system, then you should pay attention to polyethylene water pipes. You will receive a quality product at an attractive price that will last a very long time.
In the market of building materials in modern stores, a large selection of not only products that differ in diameter, but also manufacturers is presented. Before buying, make sure that the product meets the stated requirements of GOST and other regulatory documents. Also choose products from a trusted manufacturer who has a good reputation and positive reviews.