Is PE pipe suitable for new supply or collection networks

Yes. PE pipe is ideally suited for new supply networks. Applications in which PE pipe is widely used by our customers include:

• Gas mains distribution networks
• Gas service supply pipes
• Water mains distribution systems
• Water service supply pipes
• Gravity sewer and drain networks
• Pumped sewer mains
• Irrigation systems
• Industrial and process pipework

Below Ground
For below ground applications, for example gas and water distribution mains and gravity and pumped sewer mains, the use of PE has encouraged significant improvements by our customers in the design and performance of the equipment used for laying PE, particularly in congested urban environments. Techniques that have been developed include narrow trenching and directional drilling or guided boring which are particularly suitable for road, rail, river and similar crossings.

Above Ground
Where the pipe is laid above ground by our customers and the installers, for example industrial and process pipework, the relatively light weight of PE compared with other pipe materials minimises the amount of handling equipment required. Above ground pipes need to be suitably protected against mechanical damage and UV degradation.