Understanding the service life of plastic distribution pipes
PVC and PE (pressure) pipes make up a large proportion of transmission lines for gas, drinking water and wastewater. Since many of these pipes have been in use since the middle of the last century, the remaining service life is becoming increasingly important for network operators.
Normec QS has the expertise and research facilities to map the residual life of plastic piping systems. With independent research, we clearly visualize the current condition of pipes.
Analyze current piping system
By analyzing the current condition of a piping system, the remaining service life can be predicted. This gives a better picture of the future reliability of the network. Normec QS uses a research method developed by TNO for this purpose.
The research consists of several steps:
- Carrying out a test program on representative or risk-based test samples from the pipework
- Determining the actual condition and possible degradation progression
- Interpretation of the test results
- Reporting with a substantiated residual life prediction
Expertise of Normec
We combine years of practical experience with specialized laboratory research. With this, we support managers in assessing the condition of plastic pipes.
This means for you:
- Insight into the current condition of plastic pipes
- Substantiated prediction of the remaining lifespan
- Better planning of maintenance and replacement
- More focused investment decisions within the network
- More grip on reliability of piping systems
Future-proof network management
The historically estimated useful life of plastic distribution pipelines is often around 50 years. In practice, that service life can vary depending on quality and user conditions. For example, a favorable soil location can extend the service life, while factors such as traffic vibrations or unfavorable soil compaction cause additional stress.
In addition, degradation processes of a physical, chemical and mechanical nature play a role. Pressure, water hammer and chemical influences from the soil can also affect the reliability life of piping systems.
By identifying these factors, residual life studies help to better prevent leaks, pressure loss and other problems.
Want to learn more about residual life of PVC and PE piping systems?
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Residual life assessment is research that determines the current condition of a piping system and predicts its remaining life.
-
This investigation focuses on PVC and PE (pressurized) pipes used for gas, drinking water and wastewater systems, among others.
-
It provides insight into network reliability and helps plan maintenance, replacement and investment.
-
By laboratory testing on representative samples from the pipework and analysis of the degradation history.
-
Yes. Factors such as soil conditions, vibration or chemical influences can increase or decrease the service life.
-
Normec specialists conduct the survey and report the results.