Historical - HDPE Municipal Water Pipe
This information reflects our best understanding of product composition in 2015.
High density polyethylene (HDPE) piping has been used in the US for potable water applications such as home plumbing and distribution mains as well as sewer and drainage applications since at least the early 1970s. Its use is approved under AWWA...
High density polyethylene (HDPE) piping has been used in the US for potable water applications such as home plumbing and distribution mains as well as sewer and drainage applications since at least the early 1970s. Its use is approved under AWWA C901 and NSF 61 standards. Common newer resins have the designation PE4710 resin per ASTM D3350. HDPE pipes commonly contain carbon black for pigment and UV stabilization. They can additionally have a colored stripe to indicate the approved usage: blue for potable water, green for sewer, and purple for reclaimed water. This CP is focused on pipe used in potable water applications. Antioxidant/stabilizers are also included to prevent degradation of the polymer during processing and thermal fusion as well to protect from oxidation during the service life. Some studies indicate that pipe additives, such as antioxidants, and degradation products may be found in water coming from the pipe over extended periods of time.
This is the historical version of this CP. Its updated version can be found here: https://pharos.habitablefuture.org/common-products/2078970