Optimizing Utilities with Innovative Plastics
ABOUT UTILITIES PLASTICS
Performance plastics are becoming increasingly popular for water and utility applications. From Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) to Thermoplastic Elastomer and High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE), these materials are designed for superior performance and durability. PVC, ABS, and HDPE are among the most popular plastics used for plumbing and double contained piping.
These materials can withstand extreme temperatures, corrosion, and other wear and tear, making them a great choice for water and utility applications. Plus, they don't require any special tools or equipment, so they're easy to install. Performance plastics are also lighter and more cost-effective than conventional materials, making them a great choice for budget-conscious projects. With their superior performance, low cost, and ease of installation, performance plastics are the perfect choice for plumbing, double contained piping, and other water and utility applications.
Applications
- Potable water systems (valve and pump components)
- Irrigation systems (bearings, nozzles, pivot bushings)
- Aquaculture
- Specialized chemical delivery systems
- Reclamation process piping
- Sprinkler/water aeration systems
- Hot and cold water distribution systems
- Plumbing pipes and fittings
- Double contained piping systems
- Water and sewage treatment — paddles, weirs, wear shoes, sprockets, chain guides
- Gravity and force main industrial and municipal sewer systems
- Ultra-pure water systems
- Submerged marine installations
- Ocean thermal energy conversion projects, designed to produce energy and air condition buildings
- Desalinization
- Grating and stair systems
Materials
- Acetal (POM)
- Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS)
- Cast Nylon (PA)
- Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC)
- Ethylene-Chlorotrifluoroethylene (ECTFE)
- Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate (EVA)
- High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)
- Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE)
- Polymethyl Pentene (PMP)
- Polypropylene (PP)
- Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)
- PVC/Acrylic Alloy
- Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF)
- Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE)
- Ultra-High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW-PE)
Advantages May Include
- Lightweight
- Impact resistant
- Weather resistant
- Chemical and corrosion resistant
- Easy to fabricate
- Excellent weatherability
- Quieter than metal pipes (no “water hammer”)
- Easy and safer to install
- Low maintenance
- Easy to weld, install and operate
- Excellent flexibility and bending radius (which eliminates the need for custom fittings)
- Surge-resistant
- Provides superior protection for public health when used in water treatment applications
- Fabrication can be done on-site with simple hand tools; no torches or heavy equipment needed
- Energy savings with dynamic systems (a result of plastics, lighter weight and lower specific gravity