IGEM G / 8 Revision 2: What the Changes Mean for PE Pipe Storage

One change has attracted more attention than any other

With the publication of IGEM / G / 8 Revision 2 (for UK gas pipes), the recommended outdoor storage period in direct sunlight for polyethylene (PE) pipe, pipe coils and fabricated fittings has increased from 12 months to 24 months from the date of manufacture. 

On paper, that's a relatively small amendment.

In practice, it's a change that addresses an issue many manufacturers, contractors and Gas Distribution Networks became increasingly familiar with during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Why IGEM reviewed the guidance

IGEM G8 is the industry guidance covering the handling, transport and storage of polyethylene (PE) pipe and fittings used within UK gas distribution networks. 

For many years, the guidance recommended an outdoor storage period of 12 months for PE products stored outdoors.

Before Covid, product age was rarely a significant issue. Projects generally progressed as planned, stock moved through the supply chain and PE products were rarely held in storage for extended periods. Covid did change that, projects slowed, stock remained in depots for longer and manufacturers found themselves supplying PE pipe that had been in storage for much longer than originally anticipated.

At the same time, customers quite rightly began referring back to the wording of IGEM G8 when assessing product age. What had previously been an occasional discussion became a much more regular one across parts of the industry.

The review of IGEM G8 provided an opportunity to revisit that recommendation using both operational experience and technical evidence.

The objective wasn't to lower standards or change the performance of PE pipe.  It was to determine whether the guidance continued to reflect the practical realities of managing PE products across today's gas industry.

What actually changed?

The updated guidance now recommends that polyethylene pipe, pipe coils and fabricated fittings may be stored outdoors for:

The revision relates to the recommended outdoor storage period before installation. It does not change the design life, pressure rating or in-service performance of PE pipe.

How Radius supported the review

Radius Systems was one of the manufacturers invited to support the review of IGEM / G / 8 Revision 2.

Gary Dwyer and Mark Hunter represented Radius on the working group, contributing operational experience gained from supporting Gas Distribution Networks and utility contractors across the UK.

Within Radius, Derek Muckle supplied UV performance data and technical input to support the review. That information formed part of the technical evidence considered during the review process and was independently peer reviewed through the IGEM review process.

The review brought together manufacturers, Gas Distribution Networks and industry representatives to ensure the guidance remained practical, evidence-based and relevant to today's industry.