New pipe standards recently published by the American Water Works Association recognize an enhanced performing high density polyethylene resin known as PE4710 for municipal and industrial water and wastewater systems.
The 52-page standard covers PE pressure pipe and fittings from 4 inches to 65 inches in diameter for use in transporting potable water, wastewater and reclaimed water in either buried or above-ground installations.
The Plastics Pipe Institute is lauding the updated version of the standard — C906-15 — as a “significant event” for cities, taxpayers and businesses.
“The demands for installation of new pipelines and revitalization of the deteriorating water pipe infrastructure are urgent and critical,” PPI President Tony Radoszewski said in a news release. “Federal and industry sources estimate that approximately 2.5 billion gallons of drinking water are lost every day because of dilapidated pipes. PE4710 HDPE pipes provide zero leakage, conserving water and preventing raw sewage from entering into waterways or watersheds, and they are ideal for both trenchless and trenched installations.”
The updated standard includes numerous changes aimed at improving the water supply and conserving water with zero-leakage pipes. PPI says it was time to add PE 4710 to the list of conforming materials, in part because pipes made from the resin are heat fused for a leak-free seal.
The heat-fused joints are as strong as the pipe itself so long runs can be installed by a number of methods following industry guidelines and procedures, according to Camille Rubeiz, engineering director for PPI's municipal division.
“The higher performance PE4710 provides a very durable system due to its improved properties,” Rubeiz said in an email. “PE4710 is designed for water and wastewater applications meeting the ANSI/AWWA C906. It is the material of choice for trenchless applications, such as HDD (horizontal directional drilling), slip lining and also for pipe bursting.”
Over the years, resin manufacturers have developed PE compounds with different molecular structures and improved performance properties for pressure piping, The AWWA standard revision has been a long time coming for them and pipe manufacturers.
“Standards around the world recognize the full benefits of HDPE pipe, and the AWWA and ANSI approved standard now does, too,” Radoszewski said.
The Plastics Pipe Institute is based in Irving, Texas.