Maya Ellison
Plastic gas pipes are typically made from polyethylene, either medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) or high-density polyethylene (HDPE). MDPE is more flexible and commonly used for underground gas piping applications, while HDPE is used for non-residential applications with high pressure. WL Plastics is a notable manufacturer of both types of polyethylene pipes for natural gas distribution systems across North America. PolyPipe is another large manufacturer of polyethylene pipes, specifically PE2708 PolyTough1. Gastite® has also partnered with Continental Industries, Inc. to offer PE tubing for underground gas piping systems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | WL Plastics |
| Pipe Type | Medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes |
| Application | Natural gas distribution systems |
| Region | North America |
| Properties | Strength, flexibility, corrosion resistance |
| Performance | Decades of leak-free performance in residential and commercial settings |
| Quality Assurance | Meets ASTM D2513, NSF Gas, CSA Z662, and DOT CFR49 Part 192 standards |
| Identification | Solid yellow, black with yellow striping, or solid yellow with black striping |
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What You'll Learn
- WL Plastics manufactures HDPE pipes for natural gas distribution
- HDPE pipes are known for their strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance
- Polyethylene piping systems are engineered and certified for underground use
- MDPE pipes have been the standard for natural gas distribution since the 1960s
- WL Plastics' HDPE pipes are manufactured to meet industry standards and compliance
WL Plastics manufactures HDPE pipes for natural gas distribution
WL Plastics is a leading manufacturer of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for natural gas distribution. With a focus on durability, corrosion resistance, and leak-free performance, their HDPE piping systems are designed for long-term reliability in a range of applications, including natural gas distribution networks.
The company's HDPE pipes are engineered for natural gas applications and offer several advantages over traditional piping materials. One key benefit is the elimination of weak points through heat-fused joints, which also reduces maintenance requirements and enhances system integrity. The flexibility of HDPE pipes enables them to withstand ground movement, vibrations, and freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or splitting, making them ideal for variable terrain and environmental conditions. Additionally, HDPE is lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and chemically resistant, ensuring a long service life of up to 100 years.
WL Plastics' HDPE pipes for natural gas distribution are available in standard colour options, including solid yellow, black with yellow striping, or solid yellow with black striping, for easy field recognition. The pipes are manufactured in sizes ranging from 1/2 CTS to 24 IPS and conform to industry standards such as ASTM D2513, NSF Gas, CSA Z662, and DOT CFR49 Part 192. The company operates multiple state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in North America, with a combined annual production capacity of over 500 million pounds.
WL Plastics' commitment to quality and innovation is evident in their adoption of best practices and advanced manufacturing processes. Their use of bimodal high-performance PE4710 resin in HDPE pipes enhances critical performance characteristics, such as rapid crack propagation (RCP) resistance and slow crack growth resistance (SCG). With their efficient production processes, proximity to customers, and focus on continuous improvement, WL Plastics is well-positioned to serve the Natural Gas Distribution market and maintain their reputation for excellence.
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HDPE pipes are known for their strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance
High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes are a popular choice for a variety of industries, including mining, agriculture, water distribution, and gas distribution. They are known for their strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance, which make them highly versatile and reliable.
One of the key advantages of HDPE pipes is their exceptional strength. This strength comes from their high-density structure, which gives them a high strength-to-density ratio. As a result, they are lightweight yet incredibly tough and durable. This makes them ideal for high-pressure environments and withstanding seismic activities.
The flexibility of HDPE pipes is another standout feature. Their flexibility allows them to withstand high levels of stress and environmental conditions without degrading. This makes them perfect for trenchless piping installations, where traditional open-cut excavation techniques are not required. Additionally, their flexibility minimises the need for fittings, as they can easily follow natural curves and contours.
Corrosion resistance is a critical feature of HDPE pipes. They are non-corrosive and resist a wide range of chemicals, including those induced by electrochemical-based processes. This resistance prevents corrosion-related issues, ensuring safe and leak-free delivery of gases, water, or other fluids. HDPE pipes also do not support biological growth or scale buildup, further enhancing their longevity and performance.
The combination of strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance makes HDPE pipes a cost-effective and long-term solution for a wide range of piping applications. They are easy to install, reduce maintenance requirements, and improve overall system performance. With their unique properties, HDPE pipes have revolutionised the piping industry, offering a reliable and durable alternative to traditional materials.
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Polyethylene piping systems are engineered and certified for underground use
Unlike above-grade gas piping, which requires metallic piping, underground piping systems need to withstand harsh and corrosive environments. Metallic pipes installed underground also require additional and costly materials to protect the pipe. Polyethylene gas piping systems, on the other hand, are specifically engineered and certified for underground use. Gastite®, for example, has partnered with Continental Industries, Inc. to offer PE tubing and components that quickly assemble to form a complete underground gas piping system.
Polyethylene piping systems are a reliable choice for underground use for several reasons. Firstly, they offer superior strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. This makes them ideal for applications where the pipe must be protected from corrosion, such as in underground environments. Polyethylene pipes are also flexible, which helps to prevent damage from ground movement or shifting soils. This flexibility also allows for easier navigation of challenging terrain and installation paths, reducing the need for costly fittings and additional joints.
The benefits of polyethylene piping systems are also evident in their long service life and low maintenance. HDPE pipes, for example, have a service life of over 100 years and are versatile enough to perform in a variety of conditions. They are also certified as safe for potable water applications, with annual certification by the NSF. Studies have shown that disinfectants such as chlorine and chloramine can be safely used in HDPE pipes without causing corrosion or tuberculation, maintaining flow velocities over the life of the system.
In addition to their durability and corrosion resistance, polyethylene pipes are also a smart choice for their ability to handle pressure surges. HDPE pipes, for instance, can safely withstand occasional surges up to twice their pressure rating and recurring surges up to 1.5 times without sustaining stress-related damage. This makes them a reliable option for applications where pressure surges may occur, such as in gas or water distribution systems. Overall, polyethylene piping systems offer a cost-effective, safe, and durable solution for underground piping needs.
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MDPE pipes have been the standard for natural gas distribution since the 1960s
Medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) pipes have been used for natural gas distribution since the 1960s. MDPE pipes are made from unimodal PE2708 resin and are solid yellow in colour. They are used for low-pressure systems operating under 125 PSI and are available in sizes ranging from 1/2" to 4" IPS and 1/2" to 1.25" CTS. MDPE pipes are UV-protected for outdoor storage for up to 3 years and can also be found in coils and sticks.
The use of MDPE pipes for natural gas distribution began in the post-World War II era when polyethylene (PE) plastic pipes started to be used for gas distribution. The first installation of PE gas distribution pipe took place in Caney, Kansas, in 1959, with pipe manufactured by Phillips Petroleum. By the mid-1960s, utilities began to transition from steel and cast iron to PE pipe, recognising the key advantages that PE pipes offered.
PE pipes were less expensive to acquire and install, and they were also easier to repair, handle, and store. They had a reliable, long life and lower operating and maintenance costs, as they did not require cathodic protection. By the late 1980s, PE pipe was regarded as a proven, dependable, and cost-effective means of delivering natural gas. This led to an increase in its use, with many utilities undertaking massive projects to update their distribution systems by replacing steel and cast iron pipes with PE pipes.
Today, HDPE pipes account for over 90% of new natural gas distribution pipelines installed in the United States. While MDPE pipes have been the standard for natural gas distribution since the 1960s, HDPE pipes made from bimodal high-performance PE4710 resin are now considered the ideal piping solution for natural gas distribution due to their ability to operate at higher pressures and thinner wall thicknesses, resulting in cost savings, lighter pipes, and increased flow capacity.
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WL Plastics' HDPE pipes are manufactured to meet industry standards and compliance
WL Plastics' HDPE pipes are in compliance with ASTM D2513, NSF Gas, CSA Z662, and DOT CFR49 Part 192. The pipes are designed to meet the needs of modern gas distribution networks, with a reputation for excellence and a commitment to product integrity. The pipes are also manufactured under strict ISO-certified processes, and WL Plastics holds an ISO 9001:2015 Certificate of Registration that certifies its Quality Management System.
The company's commitment to quality assurance involves rigorous testing, industry certifications, and consistent manufacturing standards. WL Plastics ensures that its products meet or exceed all requirements by making a commitment to quality, providing correct staff training, and having support from the senior management team. The company also holds several certifications, including NSF, UL, and FM Approvals.
WL Plastics' HDPE pipes have been used in gas distribution systems since the 1960s and today account for over 90% of new natural gas distribution pipelines installed in the United States. The pipes offer long-term performance, flexibility, leak-free heat fusion joints, chemical resistance, and ease of installation. The pipes' flexibility allows for narrower trench widths and compatibility with trenchless installation methods, reducing installation costs and minimising environmental disruption.
With a focus on health and safety, WL Plastics ensures that all employees receive safety training and contribute to incident learning. The company prioritises the safety of its processes and the behaviour of its employees, with strict emergency procedures in place.
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Frequently asked questions
WL Plastics is a manufacturer of medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for natural gas distribution.
MDPE and HDPE plastics are the preferred materials for natural gas pipelines due to their strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance.
Plastic gas piping systems, particularly those made from polyethylene, are specifically engineered for underground use, performing well in harsh and corrosive environments without the need for costly additional protective materials.
