Dragisa Dubocanin
Papers # 2016 Berlin
The use of polyethylene (PE) pressure pipelines is increasing in international significance and therefore being used in increasingly challenging conditions. The reasons for this are manifold, including the excellent corrosion resistance of the material, the flexibility of high-density polyethylene 100 (PE 100) pipes, and the resulting installation and cost advantages.
The construction of an 80 km long water pipeline through the Mediterranean sets new standards in water supply. Requested by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC), it runs from the Turkish mainland (Mersin Province) to the Turkish part of the island of Cyprus. For the project, individual lengths of 500 m (1600 ft) PE 100 pipe were produced and installed so that they float 250 m (918 ft) below the surface of the Mediterranean.
In 2011, a dam was built in the mountains of the province of Mersin which directs water from the Dragon River to the north-east of the town of Anamur. The dam is also to be used for generating hydroelectric power, as well as for storing the water for the pipeline.
The prerequisite for the success of this project was the development of an ultrademanding and innovative flange design for a stub end that can durably join steel and PE 100. Due to the excellent communication and cooperation between Reinert-Ritz GmbH and the project managers, a high level of confidence was generated for the longterm tightness and safety of the flange connection.
