Sustainability and the impact we are having on the environment is becoming more and more important in our everyday lives. Businesses in the UK are responsible for around 20% of the UK emissions, and it is becoming more important to develop de-carbonisation programmes to offset this. With pressure coming from investors, customers, employees, supply chains and the government, businesses are really having to put thought into the way in which they use energy in the future.
Infrastructure projects, including pipeline systems have moved towards sustainable alternatives. Plastic piping is a popular choice in the utility, construction and water management industries and this is playing a huge role in the movement towards a more sustainable future. In comparison to traditional materials, plastic pipes provide environmental, operational and economic advantages, which we are going to explore in this blog post.
1. Lower carbon footprint
Polyethylene (PE) pipes have a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to metal or concrete pipes (1.9 tonnes carbon dioxide, compared to 2.12 tonnes of carbon dioxide - equalling an 11% decrease). Less energy goes into the production of these pipes too, resulting in lower carbon emissions. As polyethylene pipes are lightweight, transporting them also requires less fuel.
2. Durability & longevity
Polyethylene piping can last over a century without the need for replacement. Metal pipes are more prone to corrosion and scaling, whereas polyethylene pipes don’t rust so are more suited to long-term installations. Polyethylene pipes have a lifespan of around 100 plus years, depending on the application and the environmental conditions in which they are placed. With fewer repairs needed, resources are conserved over long periods of time.
3. Water conservation & leak prevention
Leaks pose a significant challenge in UK pipeline infrastructure, and can cause water wastage. Plastic pipes such as Polyethylene are much more resistant to cracking, particularly when placed in areas that may be subject to ground movement or exposed to extreme temperatures. PE pipes can be fused (using methods including Electrofusion and Butt Fusion) to create a leak-free system. A fusion welded polyethylene pipe system helps prevent water loss, supporting sustainable water management
4. Resistance to corrosion
Unlike metal pipes, PE pipes are highly resistant to chemical and biological corrosion which is a common problem in water and waste management systems. Chemical corrosion in metal pipes can be incredibly dangerous as it allows harmful substances to seep into water supplies, posing a public health risk. Internal corrosion can also reduce the efficiency of a water transport system, resulting in water needing to be pumped through blocked or corroded sections - therefore increasing energy consumption
5. Increased reliability
PE pipes offer a more reliable connection system than traditional materials. When joined, PE pipes are fused together through a process that creates a seamless bond, essentially forming one continuous piece. Unlike metal or concrete pipes, which rely on joint fittings that are susceptible to corrosion, movement, and wear, PE’s fused joints are much less likely to weaken over time. The various fusion techniques means fewer opportunities for leaks at the connection points, making the pipeline far more durable and efficient.
6. Efficient installation
The installation of small diameter PE piping is quicker and more energy-efficient than using metallic alternatives. PE pipes are lightweight which makes them a lot easier to handle, reducing the need for large scale heavy machinery that consumes substantial amounts of fuel. Trenchless installation methods, such as horizontal directional drilling, can also be used for installing with PE piping, which causes much less disruption and is less carbon intensive than traditional open-cut methods.
Trenchless installation minimises surface disruption, therefore reducing the impact on the environment and making the whole process a lot more sustainable. This is particularly important in ecologically sensitive environments where the ecosystem could be disrupted by excavation. Another significant advantage is the fact that the installation method requires less carbon, by eliminating the need for large lorries to transport spoil from the open-cut trench prior to laying the pipe and then transport in new after the pipe has been laid.
7. Improved energy efficiency
In pipelines that transport fluids, energy can be lost due to friction and resistance. PE pipes have smoother inner surfaces than metal or concrete pipes, which therefore reduces friction and requires less energy to move the liquids through them. With an improved energy efficiency, smooth bore PE will improve hydraulic performance and less energy is required for the whole process.
Energy savings generated by these friction-reducing properties contribute to reduced environmental impact and a decrease in operating costs over time. This means that choosing PE pipes is not only a sustainable option, but an economical one too.
Embracing Plastic Piping For a Greener Future
Plastic pipes are continuing to gain traction as a popular, sustainable alternative in pipeline infrastructure. With benefits such as water conservation, energy efficiency and reduced environmental impact, plastic pipes are becoming increasingly important when creating infrastructure that aligns with sustainability goals.
For more information on how Radius Systems can help you work towards a more sustainable future, contact us today.
