What is the typical expected frequency of leaks in a PE pipe network?

The frequency of repair to PE pipe depends upon a number of factors: above or below ground installation; direct burial or sliplined; location of other utility plant and pipework, etc. Studies of leakage in Belgium and the Netherlands show that PE has a frequency of leaks as follows:

• In mains: 0.0156 leaks/km/year
• In services 0.071 leaks/km/year

This is comparable with steel and significantly lower than the data for iron pipes.

References

"Ductile PVC Leads the Way", Professor Mannes Wolters, Gastec. International Gas Engineering and Management Journal, May 2001. Institute of Gas Engineers, London