Irrigation and Pressure Pipe

Plastic pipes are used for irrigation and pressure pipe systems when there is a requirement to transfer water, gas or other liquids quickly between two points. Most pipes are installed below ground.

Applications include:

Agricultural irrigation mains for potatoes etc.
Potable water supplies to homes and factories.
Natural gas supplies.
Slurry and sewerage systems.
Landfill site applications.

The two main irrigation and pressure pipe systems used are explained belo

1) PVC

PVC systems have been used extensively in agriculture and industry since the 1970’s. Over time they have been comprehensively developed using stronger polymers resulting in a lighter but stronger product.
PVC’s many advantages include:

Lightweight and easy to install
High strength with excellent resistance to impact.
Excellent range of pipe diameters – 90mm to 315mm all in 6m lengths.
Low temperature use.
Chemical resistant
Abrasion resistant.
Metric and imperial systems available.
Full range of fittings and hydrants available to compliment the range.

2) POLYETHLYENE (PE) PIPE SYSTEMS

PE pipe systems have developed over the past 20 years due to the need for a pressure system available in large lengths, thereby reducing the number of joints and potential leaks.
Its advantages are:

Vast range of sizes 20mm to 1000mm.
Available in long lengths up to 100m long coils.
Joined by either electrofusion or butt fusion processes which are very unlikely to leak.
Range of pipes for various applications
- Blue – potable water.
- Black – dirty water/sewage.
- Yellow – gas.
Various pressure ratings up to 16 bar rated.
Resistant to chemicals and impact.
Installation – longer lengths result in lower installation costs and joints.