How to connect HDPE pipes: connection methods, step by step instructions and recommendations

Modern construction can not do without the use of polyethylene pipes. These products are produced under low pressure and are used in the arrangement of pressureless and pressure pipelines. To produce such pipes, polyethylene is used which has the brands PE 100 and PE 80. The material has a high elasticity, so it is very easy to work with, and the pipeline is laid in a short time and with less labor. Among the advantages of using such pipes can be distinguished long-term operation, no corrosion, resistance to negative factors, the possibility of trenchless laying of the pipeline, as well as a smooth surface, which ensures unimpeded passage of liquid.

Among other things, polyethylene pipes have a low weight and allow you to quickly mount systems of complex configuration. The material is resistant to temperature changes, has a high plasticity and mechanical strength. This product can be used in regions with high seismicity, as systems undergo ground movement.

Varieties of joints of polyethylene pipes

If you are thinking about how to connect HDPE pipes, you should first familiarize yourself with the methods of work. Depending on the purpose of the pipeline system, you can use one of two methods: detachable or one-piece. The first technology provides for the possibility of dismantling during operation. While non-detachable connections do not provide for the possibility of subsequent disassembly. If you decide to use a detachable connection method, then flanges must be used which are made of steel. The connection is called flange.

Before connecting the HDPE pipes by an all-in-one method, it is necessary to acquire a welding machine, while the pipes will be welded with their butts to each other, and the master will use the applied couplings. Electro-heating elements are connected to the connection. Among other things, you can use a collet, which requires the use of compression fittings. This technology is used on pipelines of small diameter.

Why choose a detachable connection

If you are thinking about how to connect HDPE pipes, you should think about the methods of work. Experts are increasingly advised recently to use a split method, which has a number of advantages over the one-piece method. First, the detachable connection allows to save, secondly, it is more accessible, and thirdly, the master will be able to increase the speed of work. If you consider the first option, then you will not need to use special expensive equipment for welding polyethylene products or pay for specialist services. Moreover, a detachable connection can be made even where the use of welding is not possible, here it is possible to refer the conditions under water. Well, finally, this method allows you to make product connections at high speed.

Features of the plug-in connection

Before connecting the HDPE pipes in a detachable manner, one should choose a method that can be flared or flanged. In the first case, it is necessary to use elastic seals, which are most often used in the arrangement of pipelines for non-pressure sewerage. With regard to the fitting or flange connection, in these two cases, fastening elements are used.

Recommendations for the use of couplings

If you have a question about how to properly connect the HDPE pipes, you should become more familiar with the features of using couplings. These parts are made of polyethylene, and when they are manufactured, extrusion technology is used. This method allows you to exclude the use of welding machines and does not provide for the purchase of expensive equipment. As practice shows, couplings are cheap, and their use allows you to save on construction.

Why else should I use couplings?

Clutches are quite common when connecting polyethylene pipes because they have a long service life that reaches several tens of years. As a result, it is possible to obtain the most reliable fastening, which is stable to aggressive media. The coupling has a wide field of application and can be used for equipping pipelines for almost any purpose.

Using fittings

Beginners often ask themselves how to properly connect HDPE pipes to fittings. When carrying out such work, it is necessary to follow certain rules. They require the dismantling of the compression fitting by the method of unscrewing the union nut. The pipe must be cleaned of dirt, and chamfer at its end. To do this, it is necessary to use a foskosnimatel, but in the absence of this tool you can use a sharp knife. If you are faced with the task of how to connect pipes with HDPE fittings, then on the product a marker must be made marking, which will determine the depth of entry into the fitting. Before inserting the part, the pipe must be soaked with liquid soap. Then the introduction is carried out, and when this action is carried out, it will be necessary to exert force, since the rubber seal creates a certain resistance. At the final stage, the fitting nut is tightened. It is important not to overdo it so that the connection is not over-tightened.

Connecting plastic pipe with metal

If it is necessary to extend the old pipeline from the metal, it often becomes necessary to connect it with a polyethylene product. To do this, prepare two sliding keys, a patch or Teflon tape. It will take an adapter with one end in the form of a metal product, and the other end should look like a bell for the flexible connection of a plastic pipe. If you are faced with the question of how to connect the HDPE pipe to the metal pipe, then at the first stage it is necessary to unscrew the pipe coupling in the place where the connection is planned.

One swivel key is necessary to hold the coupling, and the other - the pipe. If you can not unscrew the connection, you can use oil with increased penetration. The next step is to use a tool for plastic pipes and tighten the threaded connection. This will further eliminate leakage. On the pipe clockwise, several turns of the tape should be made, closing the threads. If you are thinking about how to connect a HDPE pipe to a steel pipe, then at the final stage, you need to install and tighten the adapter. The connection is delayed until you feel resistance. It is not recommended to screw fittings with internal thread from PVC to metal, as these two materials have different temperature expansion.

Connection of a polyethylene pipe with a crane

The most popular method of joining a polyethylene pipe with a ball valve is butt welding. It should be carried out with the help of a special installation, into which both edges of the welded workpieces are fixed. The surface is cleaned of dirt and degreased. The heating element will increase the temperature of the edge of the polyethylene pipe to a viscous state, whereas the mechanism of the apparatus will help to strengthen the elements to each other. After you connect the HDPE pipe to the tap, it is necessary to leave the elements until completely cooled. If the work is carried out correctly, the welded joint will look like a smooth seam equal throughout the circumference of the height.