PE pipes, i.e. made of plastic - polyethylene, are the most frequently used piping during the construction of water installations. There are various types of PE pipes to choose from. There are two main types: PE 80 and PE 100. PE pipe has unique physicochemical properties, which allows for its versatile use. Where exactly are polyethylene pipes used? How thick should their walls be? And how should PE pipes be connected to ensure effective transport of water or other medium in the installation? All these questions are answered by an expert from the Onninen hydraulic wholesaler. We invite you to read!
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Application of PE pipes
Polyethylene is a modern construction material obtained in the polymerization process of ethylene. It determines the unique properties and thus numerous advantages and a very wide range of applications of PE pipes. They are:
- light – much lighter not only than steel and cast iron pipes, but also than those made of other plastics, e.g. PVC;
- easy and quick to install - quick connection of PE pipes is possible thanks to quick clamp connectors;
- resistant to abrasion, corrosion and chemicals - they are resistant to most chemical compounds;
- resistant to high and low temperatures - they can work in virtually any conditions, even down to -25 ° C;
- easy to maintain - they do not attract dirt, sediment, bacteria and fungi, so they do not require maintenance;
- flexible – effectively dampen water shock waves (impacts often occur during the laying stage);
- durable - ensure high strength of connections even in difficult environmental conditions, their service life is up to 50 years;
- neutral for nature - they are non-toxic, do not cause environmental pollution, and are recyclable after use;
- compatible – suitable for connecting to elements made of other materials using shapes and connectors.
PE pipe is commonly used in the construction of water supply, sewage and irrigation systems. The transported medium may be not only drinking water, but also sewage or chemicals. PE pipes are also used to build gas and technological installations. They co-create installations inside the building and work well in outdoor installations. They are able to survive in the soil for many years. A PE pipe should be distinguished from a PEX pipe, i.e. made of cross-linked polyethylene. PE-X pipes are very durable and resistant to extreme temperatures, which is why they are ideal for central heating and hot water installations.
What wall thickness should a PE pipe have?
When choosing PE pipes for an engineering project, you should pay attention to their geometric dimensions, i.e. diameters and wall thicknesses. The pipe's resistance to internal pressure or external loads depends on the diameter and wall thickness. Manufacturers often provide an SDR (Standard Dimension Ratio) value for their solutions, which determines the ratio of the pipe's outer diameter to the wall thickness. It is worth remembering that the higher the wall thickness, the greater the durability of the product, but also the smaller the clearance.
If you need PE pipes and fittings with extremely high load resistance, be sure to consult your choice with a specialist.
Solid connection of PE pipes
Various methods are used to connect PE pipes. Due to the thermoplastic properties of the material, welding is often used - electrofusion, butt or polyfusion. This method ensures uniform and durable connections, independent of ground movements. Electrofusion welding uses a welding machine and PE electrofusion fittings with heating elements. Finally, the fitting is fused with the pipe. Butt welding is used to connect pipes and fittings with large diameters. In turn, polyfusion welding requires the use of a welding machine with a sleeve and a polyfusion mandrel. The heated ends of the elements are pressed together.
The installation elements can also be connected using the clamping technique, using a PE clamping fitting. The connections created are relatively easy to dismantle. PE water pipes, characterized by small diameters, can be screwed together using screwed fittings, without the need to use specialized tools. This is a simple method that results in a disconnected connection.
The connection of the PE gas connection with an installation made of another material is ensured by transitional threaded connectors. However, connecting PEX pipes (cross-linked polyethylene) is generally based on clamp-connected fittings. The method requires an automated device - a crimper.
PE pipes in the Onninen wholesaler
In the Onninen hydraulic wholesaler you will find PE pipes carefully selected for durability and variety of applications. These are modern, solid elements, the quality of which translates into the durability and functionality of the water installation. We cooperate with the most valued producers and suppliers on the market, such as Geberit , Ingremio , Kaczmarek , KAN-therm and Kopos . We offer PE pipes of many different diameters, wall thicknesses and properties. The permanent assortment includes both a PE 32 pipe and a PE 25 pipe .
Too much choice? Contact us! At Onninen, we not only sell, but also help customers choose optimal solutions for standard and non-standard installation projects. Do you install or sell plastic pipe systems? Ask about a special offer for professionals.