The Development of Multilayer Pipe Constructions [PE]

Keywords : BorSafe, PE100-RC, Multilayer Pipes, Sandless bedding, Trenchless technologies, HE3490-LS-H During the recent period, many pipe suppliers in Europe have extended their product portfolio with multilayer pipes solutions. Their target in the first instance was to be able to offer a product for the more and more popular trenchless pipe installation technologies. But as well systems for simplifying the welding at the installation, in specific for electrofusion, have been developed at the early stage. While standardisation is slowly closing the gap in adopting the main norms to gas and water application with appropriate definitions, the market is defining its needs by itself. In parallel to the creation of these new pipe solutions the raw material suppliers have also developed new materials featuring superior resistance to slow crack growth (SCG) and to rapid crack propagation (RCP). To apply these newest materials (typically hexene-copolymer PE100 materials) properly, and to optimise the performance of the pipes, the detailed engineering of such pipe solutions became more essential. Which multilayer pipe solution should be implemented and which structure should this pipe employ, and which combination of layers fit the purpose best? Improper materials selection for such combinations can lead to limited pipe performances. This paper will give an overview of the different solutions that have been produced using the latest raw materials.