HDPE Pipes: Flexible And Strong

Pipes are tubes that are used to get liquids or gasses from one place to another. With regards to municipal and household systems, this is usually water or waste-water being brought in or taken away. There are many different types and sizes of pipe available to homeowners and professional builders. The composition of a pipe is usually chosen based on its intended use, although cost may also be a factor.

By far the most common household pipes are made from metal and plastic; both strong and versatile materials, although municipal systems frequently use concrete when building drainage and sewer systems. Other materials, such as fibreglass or ceramic, may have applications as well. Hybrid pipes (plastic reinforced by fibreglass, for example, or plastic-lined concrete) are not uncommon, either. Copper is easily the most used metal for hot and cold tap water due to its strength and resistance to corrosion, although it is growing in cost.

Plastic is another material that is frequently used for household, industrial, and municipal pipes. Plastic, such as the commonly used PVC (polyvinyl chloride), can have a very high strength to weight ratio, making it relatively easy to install, even in larger sections. Plastics are ordinarily much less likely to corrode over time than metals and possibly more capable of deflecting damage. They are also budget-friendly. The process used to create them has some environmentalists concerned, however.

Concrete is a common choice for high-volume drainage situations, such as sewer systems and flood-control runoffs. Concrete (particularly reinforced concrete) is a good strong choice that can be easy to install if precast concrete pieces are used. Concrete is also highly resistant to corrosion.

But another popular choice for large pipes such as storm sewers and road culverts is HDPE pipe. High-density polyethylene is a substance that is very strong and very tough. It is easy to cut into shape during installation, and much less prone to leakage at its joints (vs. concrete) because it is sealed using heat, which forms a joint as strong as the pipe itself when done properly.

A wide range of pH values (from strong acids to strong bases) will not damage HDPE pipes, and their light weight and flexibility eases installation, because they can be fitted on slopes or around ground obstructions more easily. HDPE is much easier to trim than concrete or metal, as well. HDPE pipe can be single-walled or double-walled for additional strength. HDPE pipe can last up to 100 years (or longer).

If you are wondering Where to get HDPE pipes, you should start with the Internet. A search should turn up suppliers in your area. But don’t just choose the first one you find.

Your supplier should not only be able to get you the specific type you are asking for, but also advise you on possible alternatives, ways to simplify installation or save costs, and so on. A supplier with experience with all types of pipe materials is in the best position to help you. Just make sure they have the stock to go with their advice. There are many fine Canadian suppliers; choose the one that works for you.

Adam Prince is a non-affiliated online writer who focuses on the construction industry and similar issues. He has a particular interest in the different types of pipes, such as Where to get HDPE pipes.

Home & Family, construction, gravity flow pipe, HDPE, HDPE pipe, high-density polyethylene, municipal pipe, pipe, plastics, road culvert, sewer systems