What are the Benefits of HDPE Pipe for Water Transfer?

HDPE pipe is a type of plastic pipe that’s used in the transfer of water. HDPE pipe (which stands for high-density polyethylene pipe) is flexible, highly impermeable, and suitable for high pressure pipelines. Most commonly, HDPE pipe is used for water mains, sewer mains, slurry transfer lines, rural irrigation, fire system supply lines and drainage pipes.

The Cost of Water Leaks

In the U.S., nearly 40 billion gallons of water is transported daily for domestic and public use, while another 300 billion gallons is used for agricultural and commercial purposes. During the movement and distribution of this water through pipes, an estimated 20 to 30 percent is lost through leaks, burst pipes, and other system failures, though that number can be as high as 50 percent for older networks.

In addition to the loss of water and its associated costs, leaks can lead to public health issues (or even crisis) when contaminants enter the pipe—and our water—through pipe cracks. Leaks due to corrosion are the biggest offenders, since they are hard to spot and usually start small. These leaks then grow and worsen over time until they become significant, but unfortunately, implementing an early detection system is not always feasible; it can cost up to a pretty penny to detect a leak, making detection both expensive and time consuming.

Once a leak is uncovered, fixing or replacing the system is an expensive and disruptive process. The problem of aging water systems is large and complex, leaving many utilities companies in need of an alternative water rehabilitation strategy that’s minimally invasive and relatively cost-effective, while also protecting against future leaks. HDPE pipe is that solution.

The Benefits of HDPE Pipe for Water Transfer

HDPE pipe is tough, resistant to chemicals, resistant to corrosion, and light in weight. Furthermore, it’s cost-effective, durable and flexible. For all of these reasons, HDPE pipe is an excellent water transfer solution.

HDPE Pipe Has Leak-Free Joints

HDPE pipe can be joined by butt welding, electrofusion welding, socket welding, extrusion welding, or heat fusion. These welds create a homogenous joint that is at least as strong as (if not stronger than) the existing pipe, with no need to use rubber seals or jointing chemicals (such as is needed with PVC pipe). As a result, HDPE pipe is virtually leak free, effectively eliminating the infiltration and exfiltration problems of conventional pipes, which can leak at a daily rate of 10 to 20 percent of their total water volume.

HDPE Pipe Is Food-Grade

HDPE pipe is made of food-grade polyethylene virgin material, which makes it __safe for the transfer of drinking water when purchased new. __

HDPE Pipe Is Corrosion-Resistant

It is also resistant to many chemicals, which makes it a good choice for use in processing plants or around corrosive environments without needing to use protective coatings (such as is required with steel pipes).

HDPE Pipe Has Low Thermal Conductivity

Since HDPE pipe has a low thermal conductivity, it can maintain more uniform temperatures compared to metal pipes, which reduces the need for insulation to control condensation around the pipeline.

HDPE Pipe Can Last Up to 100 Years

The high density polyethylene pipe industry estimates the service life for HDPE pipe is between 50 and 100 years. This can lead to savings in replacement costs for years to come.

HDPE Pipe is Flexible

HDPE pipe can provide greater durability and flexibility than certain other materials because it can be easily bent into place and pulled through existing pipes. This flexibility makes HDPE pipe good for dynamic soils, including areas prone to earthquake. Furthermore, HDPE pipe can withstand many types of impacts, especially in cold-weather situations where other materials would crack.

HDPE Pipe can be Resold

Because HDPE pipe has a long service life, it is very popular on the resale market! If you have unused or used (but in good condition!) HDPE pipe after a project, selling your HDPE pipe through an online platform like Eiffel Trading is a great option. This helps you make money, recoup project costs, and more!

To learn more about the uses of HDPE pipe for water transfer, read another Eiffel Trading blog titled “How is HDPE Pipe Used for Water Transfer”?

Buy and Sell with Eiffel Trading

Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace is a one-stop-shop for your heavy civil needs. In addition to used and surplus HDPE pipe, Eiffel Trading’s material inventory also includes used precast concrete traffic barrier, brand new h-pile beams, used wide flange beams, and more.

All of our listings are constantly being updated, but if you don’t see what you’re looking for, create a wanted listing.

Ready to sell your used heavy equipment or construction material? List your products today on Eiffel Trading’s online marketplace.

If you have any questions or would like additional information, please call us at 1-800-541-7998 or email sales@eiffeltrading.com.