Plastic pipes put to the test: Why plastic is the first choice
Modern industry is increasingly focussing on plastic, and for good reason. After all, the construction and utility industries in particular are increasingly focussing on sustainability and efficiency. These are key areas in which plastic pipes have already proven their worth. In this blog post, we would like to explain the most important advantages of plastic pipes and show you why plastic performs so well on the materials test bench and should be your first choice.
1. Longevity - over 100 years of service life
While pipes made of other materials often have to be replaced after a few decades, plastic pipes can easily last for more than 100 years if they are laid and used properly. This not only makes them economically attractive, but also conserves resources as fewer replacement investments are required.
2. Emission-saving - production with less energy consumption
The production of plastic pipes requires far less energy than the production of pipes made from materials such as steel or concrete. This makes plastic an environmentally friendly material that is impressive in terms of energy efficiency. Plastic pipes offer an attractive solution, especially at a time when the focus is on sustainable construction and resource-saving manufacturing processes. Lower energy requirements also mean lower CO₂ emissions, which further reduces the environmental impact.
3. Lightweight - low weight, less transport
Thanks to their low weight, plastic pipes are not only easier to transport and handle, but also cause significantly fewer emissions during transport. The transport costs quickly become noticeable, especially for larger infrastructure projects. Plastic pipes offer an alternative to heavier materials here.
4. Processable - flexible and thermally mouldable
Another plus point is their excellent workability. Thanks to their flexibility and thermal properties, plastic pipes can be easily adapted to the respective structural conditions. They can be bent, welded and cut without losing stability or quality. This not only simplifies installation, but also reduces the cost of complex customisation. The pipes are available in delivery lengths of up to 20 metres or even in several hundred metre lengths as coils or drums.
5. Uncomplicated - environmentally friendly installation methods and flexible connection options
Various environmentally friendly installation methods, such as trenchless installation, protect the environment and shorten construction times. There are also a variety of connection options that make the use of plastic pipes extremely flexible. Whether plug-in connections or welded joints - there is a suitable solution for every application. As there is no ingrowth, the system remains low-maintenance and durable despite being laid quickly.
6. Resistant - no corrosion and high chemical resistance
While metal pipes rust over time or are attacked by chemical influences, plastic pipes are absolutely corrosion-resistant. This property makes them ideal for use in drinking water supply, wastewater disposal or the chemical industry and ensures a long-term functioning system without damage or leaks. The surface of the inner pipe offers a further advantage. The smooth surface means that there are only minimal friction losses compared to other pipe systems.
7. Recyclable - sustainability through recycling
Plastic is a recyclable material. This means that plastic pipes do not have to be disposed of at the end of their useful life, but can be recycled. At WKT, we focus on sustainable production processes. Recycled materials from our production are reintegrated into the manufacturing process and are used in the production of cable conduits. In the area of PE extrusion, we thus produce our quality level 2. You can find out more about our four PE quality levels for cable protection here.
8. Quality - highest quality standards and certifications
The quality of our products is a top priority at WKT. Our plastic pipes are subject to strict tests and fulfil the highest standards. Certificates, such as those in accordance with DIN standards, guarantee compliance with these standards and offer our customers the security of receiving a durable, reliable and high-quality product. In addition to our products, WKT itself is of course also certified to ISO 9001, 14001 and 50001.
9. Value - an unbeatable price-performance ratio
Plastic pipes are often cheaper to purchase than metal or concrete alternatives and have an extremely attractive cost balance over their entire life cycle thanks to their durability and low maintenance requirements. This combination of cost-effectiveness and durability makes them a valuable investment for any project.
Conclusion
Plastic pipes have long since established themselves as a pioneering alternative to conventional materials. Their numerous advantages make them irreplaceable in many areas.
At Westfälische Kunststofftechnik, we rely on state-of-the-art technologies and the highest quality standards to provide you with a product that will not only impress you today, but also in the decades to come. Plastic pipes have clearly passed the test for us!
You can find more information about our plastic pipe variants, the raw materials used and their composition here or contact us!