August 2018 Vol. 73 No. 8
Newsline
New Technical Committee Supports Growing Use of Propylene Pipe
The Plastics Pipe Institute Inc. (PPI), the major North American trade association representing all segments of the plastic pipe industry, has created the Polypropylene Pressure Pipe Steering Committee within its Building and Construction Division (BCD).
This new group focuses on two types of polypropylene pressure pipes: PP-R (polypropylene random copolymer), and PP-RCT (polypropylene random copolymer) with modified crystallinity and temperature resistance. Both types are approved for potable hot and cold water plumbing systems, hydronic heating and cooling systems, as well as other applications.
PP-R and PP-RCT pipes are available in metric sizes ranging from 16 to 355 mm and IPS schedule 80 sizes ranging from 1/2 to 6 inches. The minimum hydrostatic pressure ratings are 160 psi at 73ºF and 100 psi at 180ºF for plumbing applications, but pipes with different dimension ratios (DRs) can have higher or lower pressure ratings as needed by the customer.
“PPI has been a strong advocate and technical resource for many types of plastic pipe systems since its formation in 1950,” said Tony Radoszewski, CAE , PPI president. “While not new in Europe, polypropylene pressure pipes are relatively new in North America, and PPI can serve members by helping to grow this market in a technically correct and responsible manner. Pipe producers see the value in this industry collaboration. In fact, the number of polypropylene producer members at PPI has tripled since this Steering Committee was initiated in late 2017.”
The committee fits well with BCD’s mission to promote the expanded acceptance and use of high-reliability plastic pressure pipe and tubing systems in building and construction environments by providing research, education, and code and standard development with a focus on delivering sustainable and safe plastic system solutions that enrich people’s lives
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