What is the typical expected frequency of leaks in a PE pipe network?
The frequency of leaks in PE pipe depends upon a number of factors: above or below ground installation; direct burial or sliplined; location of other utility plant and pipework, etc. Studies of leakage in Belgium and the Netherlands show that PE has a frequency of leaks as follows:
- In mains: 0.0156 leaks/km/year
- In services 0.071 leaks/km/year
This is comparable with steel and significantly lower than the data for iron pipes. The leaks are seldom in the PE pipe itself unless there has been third party damage. They occur mostly at joints. PE pipe systems have been shown to have very low leakage rates and to contribute to significant reductions in non-revenue water.
References
"Ductile PVC Leads the Way", Professor Mannes Wolters, Gastec. International Gas Engineering and Management Journal, May 2001. Institute of Gas Engineers, London
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