Saudi Arabia’s first 1,200 mm diameter high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe manufacturing facility will go on line in October with the start-up of Saudi Preinsulated Pipes Industries’ (SPPI) new production line, says the Riyadh-based firm’s general manager Saleh Alnamlah.

SPPI’s polyethylene products, he says, are manufactured in accordance with international codes and standards, such as ISO, DIN and ASTM. .

According to Alnamlah, they are tested randomly in the company’s laboratory for the following: .

* Melt flow index/melt flow rate, based on ASTM D1238; .

* Tensile properties, based on ASTM D638; .

* Density and specific gravity, based on ASTM D792; .

* External loading characteristics, based on ASTM D2412; .

* Long-term hydrostatic strength, based on ASTM D1598; and.

* Short-time hydrostatic failure, based on ASTM D1599. .

“HDPE piping systems are used worldwide for conveying water as well as for the transportation of hazardous fluids,” he says. “They offer a number of advantages to the customer including low specific weight; perfect weldability; smooth inside surface, eliminating deposits and over-growth and less pressure drop compared to metals, due to less frictional resistance.” .

In addition, Alnamlah says, the pipes are resistant to ultraviolet (UV) rays, weathering, chemicals, heat aging, abrasion, radiation, freezing, rodents and all kinds of microbial corrosion. .

The piping systems are suitable for food and potable water, being compliant with foodstuff regulations and approved and registered for potable water supply, he adds. .

HDPE piping systems can be used in a wide range of applications including: .

* Supply systems: for potable water, irrigation, for swimming pools; and as discharge and gas pipes; .

* Environmental protection: drainage systems, water treatment plants, degassing pipes for waste disposal facilities and drainage pipes for waste disposal facilities. .

* Industrial: piping systems for conveying chemicals, cooling water systems, transport of solids, in explosion-proof rooms, high-purity water piping systems, protective pipes for preinsulated piping systems and cables, ventilation and degassing piping systems, and lining of irrigation systems.