Utility companies throughout the world are tasked with the secure delivery of gas or water to homes and businesses on a continuous basis. To minimise service interruptions, the industry is fast replacing its pipeline infrastructure with high density polyethylene (HDPE) piping.

Among the many advantages of PE as a material for pipelines – including flexibility and resilience – the ease, speed and cost-implications of maintenance and repair are worthy of consideration.

Only pipes manufactured from PE can withstand the forces of “squeeze-off” – a procedure used to shut off the gas or water flow by compressing the pipe walls. Although not commonplace, there is a risk of damaging the pipe material during squeeze-off that could lead to field failures.
The risks can be mitigated by selecting PE piping made from resins with high
stress crack resistance (HSCR) and by following best-practice procedures.