Sandstrum
# 2004 Milan
The use of polyethylene pipe in potable water systems has grown considerably over the past thirty years on both a domestic (North America) and international (Global) basis. Factors driving this growth have included material improvements, standards development, expansion of innovative construction techniques and growing concerns over the integrity of an aging international infrastructure. This paper will present some specific case studies on the use of high density polyethylene pipe (HDPE) in potable water distribution in both North America and in the international community. Specific factors relating to each project such as design considerations, construction techniques, and/or overall system costs will be examined to provide an understanding as to the engineering basis by which HDPE pipe was specified or selected. Through a thorough understanding of these case studies, it is felt that the design engineer or construction engineer can gain insight into the uses for HDPE water distribution piping systems.
