There is no doubt that the energy sector underwent a dramatic change within the last two decades. Energy generation and consumption had to be altered owing to the tightening of public policies, increased pressure on the environment, and more constraining financial conditions. This, in turn, drove energy executives to reconsider their standard approaches. Still, there are such stubborn constituents of the industry that do not change with time, even though better and newer options are coming to the market.
In the past, it was economical for power plants to use non-metallic water piping components to avoid the high capital expenditures and subsequent rusting of steel. However, the most popular alternative materials today are plumbing uses of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes, which have disadvantages despite lower costs.
High-graded power plants are replacing pipe systems with high-density polyethene (HDPE) pipes, which are highly durable and rustproof and significantly improve hydraulic performance. Besides, the use of HDPE pipes is becoming more prevalent; many steam electric power plants still rely on traditional pipe systems for water transportation, which causes many pipe problems and shuts down operations.
What are Typical Applications of HDPE Pipes?
HDPE stands for High–Density Polyethylene, a petroleum–based thermoplastic that is almost universally resistant to corrosion. This allows it to be efficiently used above and below ground as well as underwater, making it appropriate for industries like mining, petrochemicals, and others. Such industries are usually process-based.
The energy sector has also started to prefer HDPE pipes over PVC pipes due to the amount of water that needs to be cycled, treated, and managed around normal production runs and cycle times. More specifically, HDPE pipes are used to supply water to cooling towers, which is crucial for the production of power. Since pure water is essential for all power plants, plant managers rely on the piping system to maintain their water needs.
Does HDPE Pipe Have a Longer Life?
In terms of lifespan, HDPE pipe is hugely more robust than PVC. Various studies found that the PVC pipe range had a 30-year life span—this range span, though, varied from 8 to 15 years. Over time, usage and corrosion weaken the pipes, increasing the risk of collapsing under pressure variations. Some plant managers have suggested that PVC pipes ought to be changed every 5 years so as not to increase the risk of operational issues developing due to the weakening of pipes.
On the other hand, the service of HDPE pipes remains intact for approximately fifty to a hundred years and showcases low abrasion as time passes. Their design reduces their chances of getting affected by sudden pressure and enhances their longevity due to being impervious to corrosion or rot.
As per its statement, PPI, in contrast to other piping systems, the life cycle cost of embedding HDPE piping is the lowest, considering such facts as a reduction in leakage, preservation of water, absence of the majority of new water treatment facilities, absence of large staff for maintenance, negligible number of breakdowns of pipes during dry season, and even the amount of water wastage that occurs.
How do the Installation Methods for HDPE Pipe and PVC Pipe Vary?
In the case of PVC plumbing, pipe fittings and jointing processes require the application of special water-resistant and dry adhesives between 8 and 10 hours, followed by the testing phase around the plumbing area before it can be used for regular operations.
HDPE pipes are fused using heat during installation many times. By applying pressure that is rated and free of leak solutions, a strong joint is made in eight minutes. After fusing, an end from one of the pipes is aligned with the end of another pipe while applying heat so that the ends melt and join, forming a joint that is stronger or equal to the pipes. However, other methods that enhance the versatility of HDPE pipe, such as electrofusion and saddle fusion, are also a part of the vast techniques for fusing pipes and fittings.
Installation costs are reduced considerably because of the ease and malleability of the HDPE pipe. It’s also faster and less intrusive, considering perforating techniques instead of conventional open-cut processes.
What are the Advantages of HDPE Pipes?
HDPE piping systems are cost and time-effective, but they also offer additional advantages, including;
Higher reliability across different regions: HDPE has UV stability and can withstand extreme weather, unlike PVC, which is damaged when exposed to sunlight for extended periods since it does not contain UV inhibitors.
Reduced leaching risks: Animation of elastomers in ultra-pure water is common when using PVC piping, which deteriorates the component, forming a chemical by-product. This problem is mostly solved using HDPE piping, which can maintain its integrity in the long run.
Reducing carbon emissions: After processing, HDPE is easier to recycle than PVC, which leads to more carbon emissions. Also, due to the reduced energy consumption during the manufacturing period, HDPE is one step closer to being an environmentally friendly product.
Where to Find the Best PVC and HDPE pipe manufacturers
Sudhakar Group is one of the leading PVC and HDPE pipe manufacturers. It has been committed to quality and customer satisfaction since 1971 and is located in Suryapet, Telangana, India. With over fifty years of experience, Sudhakar Group consistently sets new benchmarks in construction solutions.
Wrap Up
With the advancements in the current power industry, it is clear that there is a movement away from using PVC to working with HDPE piping. Considering the strength and life that HDPE offers, along with cost and environmental benefits, many industries are looking to benefit from using it.