Today, the material of choice for underground pipe systems is not metal but plastic. Polyethylene (PE) plastic pipes convey clean and wastewater as well as oil and natural gas from points of origin to homes, businesses, and industries. In order to ensure the proper jointing of these pipes in hard-to-access locations or for final tie-in welds, companies rely on an electrofusion machine.
What Is Electrofusion?
Electrofusion is the means through which various plastic including MDPE, HDPE, and other plastic, are welded. It uses fittings, hence the name electrofusion fittings (EF). EFs have a built-in electric heating coil. Installers activate the EF at the appropriate moment using an electrofusion machine. This releases a voltage of around 40V. It lasts for a time set in accordance with the size of both the pipe and the fitting. The voltage melts the pipe’s surface and the interior of the fitting to create a durable, homogenous weld between the two components.
Industries Using Electrofusion
Electrofusion joining is a method commonly employed in the jointure of new pipelines. The industries in which such a process is common are those in the business of providing the public with specific services. The pipes they use convey:
- Water
- Gas
- Oil
- Sewage
However, electrofusion is not recommended for updating currently existing metal pipes by inserting plastic tubing into them. This is a cost-saving measure but plastic utilized in this way should undergo butt fusion welding instead.
Electrofusion Machine: Producing Long-lasting, Durable Joints
Electrofusion is a method capable of producing a durable weld. When the process, including pre-prep work, adheres to the guidelines, the result is a fitting able to fulfill its purpose for a minimum of 50 years. With plastic pipes currently dominating the underground waste and water conveyance industries, it makes sense for fabrication and pipe suppliers to understand the basic qualities and best-usage practices of an electrofusion machine.
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