Plastics Pipes for Water Industry

The needs of the water industry with respect to plastics pipes system are described, and the current situation of plastics pipes usage, along with future developments, is reviewed. The various stages in the process of introducing new materials are considered, and the associated d~ficultiesare highlighted. It is seen that spec~ficationsand education/training are key requirements, with closer collaboration between all involved improving the prospects for successful introduction of new systems.