White G. Jee, Sam D’Uva, Noshir Khandwawala, and Nitin Tiwari
Papers # 2010 Vancouver
In designing and installing a total piping system, there are many aspects to consider when one selects the various components that comprise a piping system. One aspect that has been successfully utilized in the plastics piping industry is the use of colorants to identify the targeted end-use application of the piping system. In general, this identification method has been globally accepted and has resulted in safe, quality plastics piping systems being installed and utilized throughout the world. In most countries that recognize the ISO application standards for PE piping systems, the requirement for materials is that a colored PE compound be utilized in the production of pipe and fittings. In some countries that recognize the ISO application standards and in countries that recognize the ASTM application standards for PE piping systems, the option to utilize either a colored PE compound or “salt and pepper” blending of a natural compound and its approved color masterbatch is available to the processor in the production of pipe or fittings. This paper/presentation provides application case studies to emphasize the importance of pigment dispersion and colorant distribution in the polymer matrix. One case study demonstrates how colored compounds produced in North America were assured to meet the requirements for PE 100 pipe for an application in South America. Another case study demonstrates that use of “salt and pepper” blending will also produce a quality piping product to meet the requirements of PE 100 and/or PE 4710 for an application in North America.
