Polyethylene-Aluminum-Polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) Composite Pressure Pipe, 12 mm (1/2 In.) Through 51 mm (2 In.), For Water Service

This standard covers coextruded polyethylene (PE) composite pressure pipes with a welded aluminum tube reinforcement for underground water service lines, using PE–AL–PE or PEX–AL–PEX configurations with a polymeric melt adhesive.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 255 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2022
Publisher: American Water Works Association,US

This standard outlines the specifications for coextruded polyethylene (PE) composite pressure pipes, featuring a welded aluminum tube reinforcement between the inner and outer layers of polyethylene. Primarily intended for underground water service lines, these pipes are meticulously designed to ensure durability and reliability. The inner and outer layers of polyethylene are firmly bonded to the aluminum tube through a polymeric melt adhesive, creating a strong and seamless connection.

The standard encompasses two distinct configurations: linear polyethylene-aluminum-polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) pipes and crosslinked polyethylene-aluminum-crosslinked polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) pipes. These configurations offer unique properties and advantages, making them suitable for various applications.

Linear PE-AL-PE pipes are constructed by extruding three layers of polyethylene: an inner layer, an aluminum tube reinforcement, and an outer layer. The aluminum tube provides structural support, enhancing the pipe's strength and stiffness. The polymeric melt adhesive ensures a tight bond between the layers, preventing leaks and ensuring long-term performance.

On the other hand, crosslinked PEX-AL-PEX pipes are made by extruding three layers of polyethylene: an inner layer, an aluminum tube reinforcement, and a crosslinked polyethylene outer layer. The crosslinked polyethylene layer enhances the pipe's flexibility, making it more suitable for applications requiring bending and twisting. The aluminum tube provides structural support, similar to PE-AL-PE pipes. The polymeric melt adhesive ensures a strong and durable bond between the layers.

In conclusion, this standard sets the guidelines for coextruded polyethylene (PE) composite pressure pipes with welded aluminum tube reinforcement. These pipes are designed to provide exceptional performance and durability for underground water service lines, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution for water distribution systems. Whether it's linear PE-AL-PE pipes or crosslinked PEX-AL-PEX pipes, these configurations offer unique advantages and can be tailored to meet specific requirements and applications.

ISBN-13: 9781647170813