Pipe extrusion

Pipe extrusion

Pipe extrusion is defined as a process of forcing the polymer melt through a shaping die (in this case: circular). The extrudate from the die is sized, cooled and the formed pipe is pulled to the winder or a cut off device with the aid of haul off device. Prior to this, the plastic material in the form of polymer granules is fed into the hopper, conveyed by a rotating screw through a long cylindrical barrel. This is subjected simultaneously to high temperature and pressure, forcing the melt through the die at a predetermined rate.

Materials
After Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), Polyethylene’s (PE) is the most widely used thermoplastic piping material.

Applications
Plastic pipe is used in virtually every phase of North American industry due primarily to its chemical resistance. With the recognition of its other features, including ease of installation, durability and cost advantages, plastic piping has achieved significant use for water mains, gas distribution, storm and sanitary sewers, interior plumbing, electrical conduits, power and communications ducts, chilled water piping and well casing.

  • Irrigation Drip, Sprinkler and Lift Irrigation
  • Water transportation Potable water, drainage, sewage
  • Industrial Chemicals, sandstowing, dewatering in mines, dredge pipelines, gas distribution and low voltage telecom/power cables

PE piping systems has many distinct advantages over conventional piping materials.

  • Lightweight
  • Flexible
  • Long lasting
  • Economical
  • Easy for transportation & installation.

Moreover they are abrasion, corrosion and chemical resistant. They require lower energy per unit volume (50-70% savings) compared to that required for manufacturing of steel / aluminum pipes, thus giving lower operating costs.

Classification of PE Pipes :

Type of Pipe

Sizes (mm)

Thickness (mm)

Applications

Pressure &
Non-pressure
Pipes

12 – 1000

1. – 65.0
(IS 4984, 1995)

 Irrigation, potable water, drainage
industrial, cable/conduits,
house drainage, drip laterals.