Survey of Water Utilities on Their Experiences with Use of Large-Diameter HDPE Pipe for Water Main Applications

Abstract

Large diameter water transmission pipelines are critical elements of water supply systems, because a failure can be catastrophic. Extended service interruptions for many customers, along with high costs of emergency repairs, inconveniences to general public, and associated water quality concerns can be results of large diameter pipeline failures. This paper presents a survey of water utilities for using large diameter (16 in. and larger diameter) high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for water transmission applications as a part of a wider-scale research project on durability and reliability of HDPE pipes (Water Research Foundation (WaterRF) #4485). While a full evaluation of a particular pipe material requires many parameters to consider, the main goal of this paper is to present the overall experience of water utilities with large diameter HDPE pipes. The survey of water utilities indicated that majority of respondents were satisfied with the durability and reliability of large diameter HDPE pipe, while five percent were unsatisfied. Survey respondents expressed concerns about tapping, repairs and joints. They considered permeation and oxidation to be minor concerns with no failures reported due to oxidation or permeation in large diameter HDPE piping systems. They also mentioned that some measures are required to improve construction techniques.