Plastics in gas distribution [PE]

The introduction of metric polyethylene gas distribution systems, metrication of the infra structure and adoption of new techniques collectively implies a short cut to chaos. Progress has been dramatic by any standard and this paper highlights those factors contributory to the implementation of the above programme by the British Gas Corporation.

The metrication of plastics pipes and fittings for underground gas distribution within the British Gas Corporation (BGC) commenced in August, 1974 when contracts were placed for the supply to nominated Regions. The decision motivated by technical, practical, commercial and political needs (Blanking (1) could not have foreseen that this would provide a major contribution to satisfy the recommendations of the King Report in 1977 (2). Indeed going metric has occasioned the BGC to devise and revise standards for polyethylene systems (3), fusion tooling (4), mechanical fittings (5) and formulate Codes of Practice for mainlaying and servicelaying such that polyethylene has now made the transition from development to a fully researched and documented first choice material for gas distribution.