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Tough PVC Pipes Field Testing from Think Pipes Think PVC

New Extreme Field Testing demonstrates PVC Pipes are tougher than their Ductile Iron competitors

18 October, 2012 Laverton North, VIC - Think Pipes Think PVC, an industry initiative set up to promote and encourage the use of PVC pipes has released a new study using triple Extreme field installation testing to demonstrate the superior toughness and durability of PVC Pipes.

To demonstrate the superior toughness of PVC-O Pipe, this new study used an installation contractor to subject a length of 150mm diameter PN16 PVC-O pipe and PN35 ductile iron pipe to some extraordinary abuse.

The full video and testing report can be viewed at: http://www.thinkpipesthinkpvc.com.au/extreme-field-testing-of-pvc-o

TEST ONE

Driven over by 20-tonne excavator Not Once, But Twice! Although the PVC pipe was severely creased and gouged by the excavatorâ s tracks, it survived without penetration.

TEST TWO

250kg Rock Dropped from height of 2.5metres The PVC pipe sustained only minor surface markings from the impact and had become slightly out of round at the point of impact, demonstrating the amazing resistance to damage that PVC-O has.

The Ductile Iron pipe suffered a gash approximately 100mm long by 10mm wide.

TEST THREE

Pressure testing of the PVC-O pipe from tests one and two to identify any splits, tears or weaknesses.

The PVC-O pipe used in the two tests was filled with water and pressure was applied whilst the pipe was monitored for leaks. As the handle was pumped, the pressure progressively increased expanding the pipe and returning it closer to its original circular shape until the pressure reached 1600 kilopascals, the working pressure rating for this PVC-O pipe.

The pipe did not burst and in fact no leakage was detected during the test.

There was no need to pressure test the Ductile Iron pipe as it had already failed during the previous test.

PVC-O Well Proven for Exceptional Strength, Ductility and High Impact Resistance PVC-O has established an enviable reputation as a high performance, durable pipe material which is ideal for pressure pipe and water supply applications. It is light and easy to handle, but tough and resistant to damage.

Although PVC-O pipes have been produced and used in Australia for 20 years, recent manufacturing technology advances have seen greater availability in the past few years. The orientation process imparts high strength at maximum material efficiency. It is the most eco-friendly pipe system in the world as it requires less energy to produce than conventional PVC-U and other pipe materials. It also uses less energy in service than all other pipe types.

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