Plastic pipes are designed with specific technical characteristics required by their application, making them incredibly versatile and highly adaptable to different needs. Discover the numerous benefits of plastic pipes!
Plastic pipe systems fulfill a wide variety of service requirements, which are precisely described for each application in a complete set of European Product Standards, along with certification and quality marks. Moreover, the plastic pipe industry insists on even greater requirements in the form of Quality Marks, which are issued by independent technical certification bodies. All of the above, allows plastic pipes to excel in performance with high reliability and safety over > 100 years and > 50 years expected service life for below ground and building applications respectively.
Plastic pipes have an expected service life of >100 years and >50 years for below and above ground applications respectively. Meanwhile, research, extrapolation studies and reports on dig-up pipes in service confirm an expected service life of well over 100 years for below ground pressure and non-pressure applications. Plastic pipe systems have successfully been in service for over 70 years around the world.
Plastic pipes are lighter than other materials, which means they are easier to handle and install. For most common small and medium-sized pipes one person can manage installation. Mechanical lifting is limited to large diameter pipes.Therefore plastic pipes have lower transport, handling and manpower costs.
Plastic pipes have a lower risk of cracking and leakage compared to alternative materials. They cope well with external stresses. Their flexibility characteristics allow plastic pipes often to be channeled around angles and obstructions without requiring extra jointing and fittings. Additionally, due to its special molecular structure, plastic pipes have smooth inner surfaces, allowing for fast flow and delivery of substances. Debris and litter do not easily stick to the non-porous inner surface.
Plastic pipes reduce installation time and offer exceptional value to installers. They are available in standard straight lengths, coils but also in bespoke lengths. Their bending properties minimise the need for joints and fittings. Moreover, in use plastic pipes require very little maintenance.
The smooth inner surface of pipes allows for a life long consistent flow rate and optimal hydraulic performance. Pipes do not corrode and offer excellent resistance to most types of chemicals. No concerns about scale deposits or pit building. Sound insulation is another real tangible advantage.
Plastic pipes are strong and maintain their durability over the entire service life. They are also non-conductive, non-corrosive and have good resistance to most common chemicals. Plastic pipes are immune to galvanic or electrolytic erosion and can be safely applied in acidic, alkaline, wet or dry environments, without the need for a special protective coating.
The manufacture of plastic pipes requires less energy than the production of most commonly used alternative materials. Plastic pipes have therefore a smaller environmental footprint and a lower global warming impact. At the end of their long service life plastic pipes have various option for recovery and recycling. Technologies are available and widely used to maximise the uptake of recycled material wherever suitable and meet circular economy expectations.