5 HDPE Piping Applications • 333+ Inspiring Lifestyle Ideas

High-density polyethylene or HDPE pipes have become popular in various industries because of their versatility and reliability. Forecasts indicate the global HDPE market will grow by 51% between 2022 ($20.82 billion) and 2030 ($31.46 billion).

HDPE is a particularly preferred piping material among pipe installation companies in the UAE, where harsh climate conditions demand tough and long-lasting solutions. This article explores what makes HDPE pipes unique and the specific characteristics that make them suitable for different applications.

What Are HDPE Pipes?

HDPE is a thermoplastic like polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polypropylene, polyamide (nylon), and polyoxymethylene. It’s one of the most commonly used for plastic piping because of its strength, flexibility, and resistance to chemicals.

HDPE pipes are particularly known for their high tensile strength, which ensures they can transport water and fluids without cracking from the stress. They can withstand 16.5 to 31.7 megapascals of stress without permanently losing their shape and form. Ultimately, they can withstand up to 40.7 MPa of stress (i.e., tensile strength, ultimate). Additionally, HDPE pipes have good tensile impact strength at 64.1 to 148 Joules per centimeter.

Potable Water Distribution

Smooth-walled HDPE pipes are ideal for distributing and transporting drinking, cooking and bathing water. The smooth interior wall means water can pass with minimal friction, ensuring consistent flow rates and reducing the amount of energy water pumping systems will consume.

HDPE pipes have superior corrosion resistance. They have longevity and won’t corrode easily even in areas with hard or acidic water. HDPE pipes manufactured specifically for water supply distribution are also typically engineered to enhance resistance to disinfection and water treatment chemicals.

Since the purity and safety of the transported water are paramount in water supply systems, HDPE pipes meant for potable water distribution must meet ISO 4427 standards. They specify the requirements for polyethylene (PE) piping systems transporting water meant for human consumption.

Plastic pipes used in potable water distribution must also be able to withstand the pressure in water supply systems as well as the normal stresses and challenges that come with installations underground, in the water or above the ground. This is why HDPE pipes must also satisfy EN 13244 standards, which lay out the requirements for PE pipes used in such applications and conditions.

HDPE pipes are resistant to biofilm growth. Using HDPE in water supply pipelines can, thus, help prevent the bacterial and fungal contamination of potable water supplies.

HDPE’s flexibility is another advantage. Contractors can lay out longer pipe runs without needing multiple joints or fittings. The more joints in the pipeline, the greater the potential points for leakage.

As you know, leaks are a leading cause of structural issues. Thus, pipes in building structures must be free from leaks before applying waterproofing paint and architectural coating to walls and other surfaces. Using HDPE pipes in water supply and plumbing systems helps create a secure environment by minimizing the possibility of leaks and effectively managing water flow.

Irrigation

HDPE is an excellent option for drip irrigation systems and sprinkler setups, as HDPE can handle the high-pressure requirements of sprinkler systems. It’s also resistant to water hammer, a sudden surge in pressure that can damage less-durable pipes.

HDPE pipes that meet ISO 4427 and EN 13244 standards make excellent components of agricultural irrigation systems. Use them in vineyards, coffee plantations and vegetable farms.

HDPE pipes are suitable because of their resistance to ultraviolet radiation and the stress caused by the movement of water. They are flexible, so they can navigate challenging terrains without breaking.

Firefighting

Firefighting systems need to deliver high volumes of water under intense pressure. HDPE pipes that meet ISO 4427 for water supply applications are suitable as a firefighting component if they also satisfy the AWWA C906 standards for pressure pipes and fittings.

HDPE pipes’ robust construction allows them to withstand the sudden pressure surges that are common in firefighting operations, where the demand for water flow can change rapidly. Aside from handling pressure well, HDPE is resistant to corrosion and scaling. Thus, HDPE water pipes last and may be relied on to work as expected when needed. Unlike metal pipes that can corrode and clog over time, HDPE ensures that water reaches fire zones efficiently without flow disruptions.

Drainage

Drainage systems demand pipes that can transport wastewater or stormwater smoothly and without leakage. HDPE pipes meant for drainage use should ideally fulfill EN 1519 standards, which enumerate the requirements for solid-wall PE pipes meant to be used for discharging soil and waste inside buildings and buried underground within the building structure. This standard also applies to pipes meant for ventilating discharge pipe systems as well as those used in the building structure’s rainwater pipework.

HDPE pipes for drainage systems have a smooth interior, reducing the risk of blockages and allowing debris and sludge to pass through without buildup. This is essential for maintaining efficient drainage flow.

HDPE’s resistance to chemicals and abrasion makes HDPE pipes particularly suitable for industrial drainage systems. Oil and gas companies, ore refineries, water processing and treatment facilities produce wastewater with harsh chemicals and abrasive debris, and wastewater pipes must be able to withstand them.

Additionally, HDPE’s lightweight nature makes installation easier and less labor-intensive compared to traditional materials like concrete. Thus, it’s an efficient choice for large-scale drainage projects.

Ducting

HDPE makes good ducting pipes. Contractors use HDPE pipelines to protect electrical wires, telephone lines, internet cables, and other electrical and communication applications.

HDPE is robust and flexible. Its strength allows it to protect cables from physical damage and environmental exposure, while its flexibility enables it to bend around corners and obstacles without breaking.

HDPE also does not conduct electricity. Contractors can use HDPE pipes safely in ducting broadband cables and other wiring that may be susceptible to electrical interference. Meanwhile, the smooth inner walls facilitate easier cable installation.

Why HDPE Pipes Stand Out

HDPE pipes have various uses, from potable water distribution to irrigation, drainage, firefighting, and ducting, because they are flexible, resistant to chemicals and corrosion, have high tensile strength and impact resistance, and can handle high pressure. Just make sure to choose HDPE pipes manufactured according to international standards.