Tech Talk

How to make solvent cement joints - Video Guide

Fri, 19 Dec 2025 11:22:20 GMT

A beginner's guide to making solvent cement joints the professional way.

A how-to video on how to make plastic pressure pipe joints with solvent cement in a step-by-step process guide. The professional method for producing pressure-resistant and leak-free pipe joints. Guidance on preparing pipe, selecting and using solvent cements and cleaners.
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See our article for additional information and this process explained in text with diagrams:

https://www.pipewarehouseuk.com/newpage7bc88eca

Video Notes: The guide has been produced using TANGIT® PVC-U cement and MEK cleaner. As different cement products may differ in consistency, application methods may differ slightly and manufacturer's instructions should overide any timings or advice given here. For example; Tangit® PLUS range of cements might have a thicker consistency and should not be discarded if it doesn't run smoothly from your utensil, but it remains good general advice for most solvent cements available on the market.

Waiting Time Between Cementing A waiting time of 5 mins for upto 225mm diameter pipe should be observed, before further jointing of these components. During which time they should be left undisturbed, this time should be increased to 15 mins if temperature is below 10°C. Over 225mm diameter, a waiting time of 15mins should be observed and doubled to 30 mins in temperatures below 10°C. These figures relate to Tangit PVC-U Solvent Cement and will differ with different cements, always refer to the instructions from your specific cement manufacturer.

Drying Period Before Pressure Test A drying period must be observed after the last joint is made & before the application of a pressure test. The minimum drying times will depend upon your chosen cement and drying temperature. Please follow all instructions provided by your chosen cement manufacturer in regards to minimum drying times as cements can differ greatly in this regard. As a general rule for good practice, we would recommended to leave 24 hours for optimal joint strength and pressure resistance before pressure testing and commissioning of the piping system.

The information in this video and article is provided as a general guide to the solvent cement jointing process. Technical information relating to the performance of cements and cleaners is dependant on your chosen cement & cleaner. You should use the information in this video and article post as a general guide only and any technical information supplied by your cement or solvent manufacturer should override any information supplied in this article.

UK Pipe Marking - A guide to BS 1710:2014

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 07:49:06 GMT

Understanding pipe marking requirements and standards in the UK.

Is it a legal requirement to mark pipes in UK?

YES. Under the Health and Safety (Safety Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996 it is a legal requirement in the UK to mark pipes , where there is a risk to health and safety. These regulations make no specific mandate to follow any particular standard, but it does state that the marking needs to be clear and concise and recommends using a recognised standard; such as BS1710 .

What is BS1710?

BS1710 is a set of standards used for marking pipes published by the British Standards Institute. BS1710 specifies the colours and supplementary information for the identification of pipes conveying fluids/gases in above and below ground installations. It also includes ducts for ventilation and conduits that carry electrical services. BS1710 is the most widely recognised system across the UK for identifying pipes and whilst these specific standards are not mandated by general UK law, some local authorities or governing bodies may specifically refer to the standards, therefore making them a legal requirement within the geographical jurisdiction or within a particular industry or context.

For help in understanding the legal implications see this article from the BSI

Identification through colour

The BS1710:2014 standard utilises a system of 8 Basic colours to identify the basic contents of the pipe, then further colour banding may identify quality, properties , uses and help to further distinguish the contents .

Basic Identification Colours (BIC)

Basic Indication Colours (BIC) are used to indicate the general content of the pipe.

Text provides specific content information and arrows show the direction of flow. Safety and code colours are applied in bands as explained further along in this article.

All colours are specified from BS4800

Safety Colours

Code & Other Colours

These colours are used when there are regulations that are required to be met in specific industries or in specific contexts. BS1710:2014 has incorporated these into the standards.

This means that the correct implementation of pipe marking according to BS1710:2014 will also ensure your pipe marking also meets the requirements of:

• Building Regulations (Parts L & G);

• F-Gas Regulations (EU/UK law)
• HTM 02-01 (UK NHS)

Alongside meeting the requirements of
Health & Safety (Signs and Signals) Regulations 1996.

Marker Sizes & Basic Marker Design Specifications

BS1710:2014 sets standards for design, size and positioning of colour coding markers on pipelines to ensure safety and compliance to the applicable regulations.

Sizes of Colour Coding Markers

BS1710 sets out standards on the size of the colour banding required, dependant on the diameter of pipe being marked.

The diagram here shows the basic design principle of the banding.
- The Basic Identification Colour may be used alone in some circumstances and the BIC would constitute the whole of the total marker width.

- When Code and/or Safety Colours are to be used in the marker; it should follow the principle shown. The marker design should have the BIC equal on either side of the code or safety colours. The chart here shows the correct banding widths for the various pipe diameters.

To be compliant with the standard, you must use the correct size marking for the diameter of pipe being marked, include the thickness of any lagging in your calculations.

Supplementary information is also required by the standards such as direction of flow and the pipe contents described as text. PWUK

Text & Supplementary Information

BS1710 requires supplementary information to the colour bands so that a pipe marker is unambiguous.

• Flow Direction Arrows

Mandatory if flow is not otherwise obvious

• Text Legend

Mandatory for all pipes. Must identify the contents in clear words . Can be any of, or a combination of the listed formats:
PWUK
• Name in Full,
• Abbreviation of Name
• Chemical Symbol

• Condition Data
Pressure / Temperature / Concentration where these factors are important for safety or operation, they must be included in the text legend.

Placement of BS1710 Pipe Markers in your Pipeline

BS1710:2014 sets standards for the placement of identifying markers. To be compliant with the standards; you must position markers wherever possible in the following indicated conditions and wherever else that identification is necessary for safety.

Conditions for identifying positions to place BS1710 pipe markers

1 - Direction Changes
When the pipeline changes direction a marker should be placed

2 - Before and After Barrier Penetrations
This could mean as a pipe travels through a wall it would require a marker as it enters and exits, so that it is identifiable from both sides. This also applies to instances where a pipe travels through floor joists, a marker should be placed in every section between floor joists, to ensure identification no matter which area is exposed during future maintenance.

3 - Before & After Valves PWUK

Many systems have clusters of valves (manifolds, distribution headers, bypass loops) - Placing markers ensures every valve’s function is obvious at a glance. A marker after the valve confirms that the downstream leg carries the same substance (or indicates if it changes — e.g. mixing or branch lines). Markers at valves make emergency isolation fast and unambiguous.

4 - At Regular Intervals along straight sections of pipe

The BS1710:2014 doesn't specify a particular interval distance, but the common guidance adopted from the standard + HSE practice is:

Every 3–5 m indoors (plantrooms, service corridors, workshops).
Every 8–10 m outdoors (open pipe racks or where pipes are easily visible).
Always within sight — a person standing anywhere along the pipeline should be able to see at least one identification marker.

See the Pipe Warehouse UK range of Pipe Marking Rolls

All information provided in this article is intended as a preliminary guide only. The information contained herein does not constitute advice and some subjects briefly mentioned in this article may need further research to be fully understood. Pipe Warehouse UK is not responsible for any issues arising from the use or reliance on the information contained in this article.

Air Operated Diaphragm Pump Selection Guide

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 13:36:15 GMT

A guide to factors that should be considered when choosing the materials for your Air Operated Diaphragm Pump based on application requirements.

Air Operated Diaphragm Pumps (AODD pumps) are widely used in industrial applications due to their versatility, durability, and ability to handle a variety of fluids, including corrosive and abrasive materials. Selecting the appropriate materials for an AODD pump is crucial to ensuring efficiency, longevity, and compatibility with the pumped media. This guide explores key factors in choosing materials for AODD pumps, including material properties, regulatory considerations, and industry-specific requirements.

Key Factors in Pump Material Selection

Begin by posing a series of targeted questions regarding the specific application for which you need a pump. The responses to these inquiries will clarify your AODD pump requirements and facilitate the selection process. Here are 5 key factors to consider:

1. Chemical Compatibility

The pump materials must be compatible with ALL of the fluids being transferred.
Chemical resistance charts help determine suitable materials to prevent corrosion, swelling, or material degradation.
Incompatible materials can lead to breakdowns, leaks, and costly downtime.

2. Temperature Tolerances

Industrial environments may involve extreme temperatures that affect material integrity. This is an especially important consideration when you factor in aggressive chemicals, abrasion and high pressure.
Some materials, like PTFE, withstand high temperatures, while others, like rubber compounds, may degrade faster.
Temperature fluctuations can lead to expansion and contraction, affecting sealing and efficiency of the pump.

ALWAYS follow the pump manufacturer's temperature range recommendations. The functional temperature range of materials used as components within a pump may be drastically different than the temperature range of materials tested in isolation. Often times manufacturers will supply a range in which the pump will comfortably operate for extended periods without serious detriment to the pump, they may also provide an extended range in which the pump can be operated infrequently and intermittently.

3. Abrasive Nature of Fluids

Abrasive slurries and suspended solids can wear down pump components.
Harder materials, such as stainless steel or reinforced thermoplastics, resist erosion better than softer materials.
Regular inspections and maintenance should be planned for pumps handling abrasive fluids.
Particle size is also a key deciding factor when considering pump sizes. Suspended solids may block pump components always check maximum sizes. Larger pump designations generally handle larger particle sizes.

See charts below for a fuller comparison of

Body Materials, and Elastomer Materials.

4. Pressure and Flow Requirements

The pump’s structural materials must withstand operational pressure and flow rates.
Metals offer higher strength than plastics but may not be suitable for all chemical applications.
Overpressurization can lead to material fatigue, making material selection crucial for high-pressure applications.

5. Regulatory Compliance

Industries such as food, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals require FDA-approved or NSF-compliant materials.
Material selection should meet industry-specific regulations to ensure safety and legal compliance.
Additional considerations may include ATEX certification for hazardous environments or USP Class VI compliance for biopharmaceutical applications.

ALWAYS CHECK THAT THE PUMP YOU ARE PURCHASING HAS THE RELEVANT CERTIFICATIONS THAT ARE REQUIRED FOR YOUR APPLICATION.

Pump Material Comparisons

You can use these charts to compare common pump materials to help ascertain the most suitable combination for your purpose.
This is an opportunity to assess overall needs and find the ideal pump material and to balance future costs of downstream maintenance against initial outlay.

CHART INFORMATION CONSIDERATIONS:
Temperature Ranges: The given ranges are widely considered to be the isolated material's temperature resistance range. Always check operating temperature ranges supplied by pump manufacturer. If you need to operate at temperatures below freezing, speak to your pump manufacturer.
Chemical Resistances: The given chemical resistance rating, refers to the range of chemicals to which the material is considered resistant. A higher rating indicates its versatility in relation to chemical resistance. Always check resistances to your individual chemicals.

All data given is as a general guide only and does not constitute recommendations.

ELASTOMER MATERIALS COMMONLY USED IN PUMPS

BODY MATERIALS COMMONLY USED FOR PUMPS

Choosing the right material combination

Its all about balance
We have provided these charts to give an overall indication as to the expected comparative performances in relation to each other, this enables you as the purchaser to make a better informed decision in your pump choice, and allowing you to balance budget and performance based on your specific application requirements.

Consider this example; Whilst PTFE material might be rated as A and the superior chemically resistant elastomer for your application, it may also come at a price that is up two and a half times the cost Santoprene; a more budget friendly option that is rated B. So, if slightly more frequent maintenance is acceptable to you, then a budget friendly option may be the right choice. Adversely, if it is very costly for maintenance visits, such as on off-shore installations, then the need for less frequent repair becomes more financially desirable and the superior life of the elastomer will become more important in the purchase decision.

Material Availability

Manufacturers produce pumps of specific material configurations so as to target their range to the common industry requirements. They may limit their range to meet expected demands and some configurations may only be available as a bespoke order with a lead time.

For example: It is not expected that many applications would demand the necessity of purchasing pumps with very expensive body materials only to have them fitted with the cheapest budget elastomers. Although it is possible to build such a configuration, there will be very little demand for such a configuration and if the need for such a configuration should arise, then it will almost certainly come with an extended lead time.

Some industry configurations

Selecting the right materials depends on the industry and specific application. Below are some general industry-specific AODD pump configurations:

Chemical Processing: PTFE diaphragms and PVDF housings for resistance to harsh chemicals.
Food & Beverage: Stainless steel housing with FDA-compliant diaphragms (PTFE, Santoprene) ensures safety and hygiene. Additional polishing may be required for food-grade compliance.
Oil & Gas: Nitrile diaphragms with aluminum or stainless-steel housing resist fuel and oil degradation. Some applications require explosion-proof certifications.
Mining & Slurries: Cast iron or stainless steel with ceramic valves withstand abrasive materials.
Pharmaceuticals: PTFE and FKM (Viton) ensure chemical resistance and compliance with USP Class VI requirements.
Water Treatment: EPDM diaphragms and polypropylene or PVDF housings provide excellent chemical resistance against chlorinated and acidic fluids.

What now?

Asides from your AODD pump material configuration, there are other essential considerations to factor in to your choice of pump. If you are confident in calculating the required performance then you may want to explore our range of pumps available for immediate purchase. If you would like some professional assistance in ascertaining the right pump for you then drop us an enquiry with some of the specifics of the intended application so we can help identify the correct pump spec for you..

Drum Pump Selection Guide

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 14:17:34 GMT

A guide to factors that should be assessed and considered when choosing the right drum pump for your needs.

Given the wide array of options of drum pumps available in the market, it is essential to meticulously assess which drum and barrel pumps are most appropriate for each specific application. This assessment is influenced by various factors. The extensive variety of drum and barrel pumps adds complexity to the selection process. These pumps are particularly well-suited for portable systems, rapid transfers, testing, and the handling of harsh chemicals, among other uses. Due to the multitude of potential applications, no single drum pump can serve as the optimal solution for every scenario.

Step 1. Ask the Correct Questions

Begin by posing a series of targeted questions regarding the specific application for which you need drum and barrel pumps. The responses to these inquiries will clarify your drum pump requirements and facilitate the selection process. Here are seven critical considerations:

Q1. What are the Required Head and Flow rates?

Depending on the size of your containers and the necessary pressure requirements, your application may demand higher flow rates or head pressure.

Examples of common scenarios, where it is essential to utilise a drum pump with a higher flow rate and greater delivery head to ensure efficiency and effectiveness are:

When emptying larger IBCs, totes, or tanks, or when transferring fluids to a second storey.

The maximum flow rate will determine how much and how fast you can transfer fluids from a container. If you have a larger container and need to transfer it fast; a greater flow rate is needed. The flow rate is usually represented as Litres Per Minute (LPM).

The Pipe Warehouse UK range of Drum Pumps have a maximum flow rate of 150 LPM, meaning that; dependant on motor settings, the drum pump is capable of delivering a flow rate of anything from 0 - 150 litres every minute. Therefore, as an example; 600 Litres will take at least 4 minutes to transfer when operating at maximum flow.

Q2. What are the Chemical Considerations for Pump Selection?

When selecting a drum or barrel pump, it is ESSENTIAL to identify the specific chemicals involved in the transfer process. Key questions to consider include:

- Will the fluid being transferred be flammable or combustible?

- What pump materials are compatible with the chemicals in use?

To ensure safe and efficient chemical transfers, it is crucial to choose a drum pump constructed from materials that can withstand the properties of the chemicals involved.

Important Note: Assess whether any of the chemicals are corrosive, toxic, or flammable/combustible. These hazardous substances necessitate specialised pump material and construction to ensure safe handling and transfer.

Check Chemical Resistances of Pump Materials Below

Q3. What is the Fluid Temperature?

Many drum and barrel pumps are designed with specific temperature limits for their pump tubes. These limits are influenced by the materials used in the pump's construction, as well as the design and length of the pump tubes. To ensure safe and efficient fluid transfers, it is essential to consider the maximum temperature of the fluids being pumped.

Maximum temperature ratings can vary significantly between pump models, so it is important to verify the specific pump's specifications with the manufacturer in relation to the chosen materials before making a selection.

Chart showing general range in which the material is considered suitable for most fluid transfer purposes. This chart is a guide only. Always check.

Q4. Do I Need to Consider the Specific Gravity and Viscosity of Fluids?

When selecting a pump for your application, it is essential to consider the specific gravity and viscosity of the fluid being handled. Fluids with high specific gravity or viscosity require specialized pumping solutions. While certain pump series and motors are designed to accommodate these characteristics, others may not possess the necessary capabilities, leading to suboptimal performance.

To ensure effective operation, it is critical to verify the specific gravity and viscosity ratings of the fluid. We recommend consulting the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) provided by the manufacturer for accurate specific gravity information. Additionally, please note that viscosity can fluctuate with temperature; therefore, it is important to use the viscosity value that corresponds to the temperature of the fluid being pumped.

Q5. What are the Container Size Considerations?

The size of the container plays a crucial role in selecting the appropriate drum pump model and determining the necessary pump tube length for your application. Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs), totes, and tanks require different pumping solutions compared to smaller containers and drums. When emptying or filling larger containers, it may be essential to utilise drum pumps capable of transferring larger volumes efficiently or that are equipped with extended tubes. Additionally, the size of the container can impact accessibility, further influencing your drum pump selection.

Refer to the chart below to assist in determining the correct pump tube length for your specific container size.

Q6. Do I Need to Consider Pump Size and Portability?

When selecting drum and barrel pumps, it is crucial to assess the importance of size and portability based on your operational needs. Certain environments may necessitate pumps that are easily transportable for various tasks throughout the facility, while others may require compact models that can fit into confined spaces.

If your application demands adherence to specific spatial constraints or requires high portability, these factors should be prioritised in your decision-making process. Additionally, if the pump will serve multiple functions, it is vital to ensure that its construction is safe and appropriate for each intended use, considering the other relevant parameters.

Be aware that drum and barrel pumps designed for handling highly viscous fluids tend to be larger and heavier, particularly those equipped with electric drive motors. To mitigate weight in such applications, consider opting for an air drive motor when feasible.

Q7. What are the Motor Selection Considerations for Drum Pumps?

When selecting a motor for drum and barrel pumps, it's important to consider the various options available. Common motor types include air, electric, and explosion-proof electric motors, with electric motors offered in different voltage configurations.

To determine the most suitable motor for your application, assess the specific environment in which the pump will be utilised.

Key Motor Considerations:

- Ensure compatibility with the electrical systems in the intended setting by selecting a motor that matches the required phase, voltage, and frequency.

- If opting for an air motor, verify that there is sufficient air pressure and volume to support its operation.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can choose the most effective motor for your pumping needs.

Step 2. Select the Best Pump

Using the insights gained from the considerations outlined in Step 1, identify the most suitable pump for your specific application. Begin by assessing the required materials, then explore the pump series that provides the best options tailored to your needs.

Construction Materials
Drum and barrel pumps are available with tubes made from a variety of materials. Common options for outer tubes include 316 stainless steel, PVDF, polypropylene & CPVC. Each material possesses unique properties that may impact performance. By analysing the results from Step 1, technicians can ascertain which materials are most appropriate for a given application.

It is also crucial to consider the construction of the entire pump assembly. The fluids being transferred will interact with more than just the outer tube. Furthermore, the external environment in which the pump operates can significantly influence the choice of exterior materials and the overall design of the pump.

A helpful resource for selecting materials is a chemical resistance guide. These guides are offered as an online resource to aid in the selection of tube and other wetted materials.

Pump Series Overview

Certain series from drum pump manufacturers are specifically engineered for a variety of applications. Some models excel in transferring large volumes of fluids quickly, while others are optimised for handling smaller quantities. It's important to note that not all series accommodate the pumping of flammable or combustible materials. Conversely, some are specifically designed for viscous fluids and include food grade options, making them suitable for the food and beverage industry.

Utilise the information gathered in the initial assessment to evaluate the drum pump series available from manufacturers or local distributors. This will help you identify the series and model that best align with your application requirements.

This is also an ideal time to determine the necessary pump tube length for your specific application.

Check Chemical Resistances of Pump Materials Below

OVERVIEW OF SPECIFICATIONS OF OUR PUMP RANGE

Transfers Viscous Solutions Rated up to 1500cps

Flow Rate up to 150 LPM

For solutions with Specific Gravity up to 1.8 SG

Discharge Head up to 1.2 Bar Pressure

Engineered for Medium to Heavy Industry Use

3. Choose the Right Motor

Drum pump motors are not all universally interchangeable. Each series of drum pumps may be designed to work with specific motors to ensure optimal performance. Many of these drum pump motors include speed control features, allowing for precise flow adjustments. Additionally, certain motor types are more suitable for specific applications. Below are the most common drum pump motor options along with their key features.

Splash-proof / Open Drip Proof (ODP) motors (IP24)

These high-speed motors are available in 110 and 240-volt, single phase and 50/60 Hz options. These drum pump motors are drip-proof and are protected in every direction from water splashes.

Our variable speed ODP Motors are all 825 Watts and available in either: 240v or 110v

Enclosed/TEFC Motors (IP54/55)

Enclosed motors are designed to provide superior protection against water splashes, dust, and corrosive fumes. Available in both high-speed brush types and slower-speed induction models, these drum pump motors are ideal for applications involving fuming chemicals and dusty environments. They represent a reliable solution for maintaining performance and durability in challenging conditions.
Pipe Warehouse UK do offer Enclosed Motors. Contact us for details

Explosion-proof motors (IP54/55)

Similar to enclosed motors, this design is sealed to protect against corrosive fumes, water splashes, and dust. Additionally, these drum pump motors are specifically engineered for use in hazardous environments and are compatible with flammable or combustible liquids.

Pipe Warehouse UK do offer Atex Zoned Compliant Motors. Contact us for details

Air motors

This motor design is lightweight and equipped with variable speed capabilities. Its non-electrical operation minimizes the risk of igniting flammable gases, enhancing safety in various applications. See our Air Driven Drum Pump Motor

Lithium-Ion battery motors (IP24)

Unmatched in terms of portability and convenience due to the cordless design. They enable seamless fluid transfer anywhere you need it. There's no requirement for electric outlets or air connections. Typically found on medium performance pump series.

Open Drip Proof Electric Drum Pump Motor

Air Operated Drum Pump Motor

4. Choice of Accessories

Drum and barrel pumps can be accessorised with a variety of products to improve convenience, safety, and effectiveness for various applications. When selecting a drum pump, consider the following common accessories and how they might enhance the pump operation for a specific setting.

• Flow Meters
• Nozzles
• Delivery Hoses
• Strainers

IMPORTANT NOTE:
The chemical resistances of any wetted materials, such as hoses and dispenser nozzles must also be considered.

See our range of available accessories that are suitable for use with our range of drum pumps.

SAFI Products. SAFI Quality

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:13:57 GMT

Pipe Warehouse UK offers only quality products from trusted manufacturers, that consistently meet the demands of our industrial clients. We have supplied SAFI products from our business for over 30 Years and here’s why…

SAFI The Company

Specialist developers & manufacturers of industrial plastic valves

Founded in 1963 by Jacques MOISON, SAFI specialises in designing and manufacturing a wide range of thermoplastic valves for the most demanding of industry processes.

SAFI service over 70 countries and have become one of the world’s most trusted names in plastic valve solutions. Trusted by blue-chip organisations, across many industries, such as those in:

SAFI have a catalogue of over 8000 products that meet the demanding needs of most of the common processes found across industries and they can also tailor valve solutions to specific needs for those even more demanding and less common processes.

One of the world's most trusted names in plastic valve solutions.

Servicing over 70 countries worldwide.

SAFI has a long heritage with 60 years of developing & perfecting their craft

SAFI Production

SAFI’s Research & Product Development
SAFi utilise 3D design tools, digital simulation (material resistance, fluid mechanics, etc.) rapid prototyping and 3D printing. SAFI’s internal testing laboratory also allows them to test the different stresses to which the valves are usually subjected. Pressure, temperature, pressure loss, cavitation, etc.

SAFI’s design process is methodical and thorough, it works closely with other departments of the company, to ensure that the product meets the expectations of clients worldwide.

SAFI Engineering
The valves that SAFI manufacture integrate into increasingly complex fluid management and control systems. SAFI teams are trained in systems engineering, in order to respond in a professional capacity to the complex consultations and documentation requirements.
SAFI proficiencies in this field are recognised by the world’s biggest actors in the chemical industry, mining industry and water treatment.

SAFI Manufacturing

All stages of production are done entirely internally:

Injection of plastic parts thanks to SAFI’s fleet of hydraulic and electric injection moulding machines
Machining of components
Assembly
Tightness test on 100% of valves according to the directives ISO 9393, EN 12266,

From the first design to the finished product, SAFI controls all stages of the conception, development and manufacturing process of its valves.

SAFI Quality

100% of the valves manufactured by SAFI undergo a tightness test.

The majority of the valves that SAFI manufacture are safety products used on hazardous fluids. Quality is a matter of safety and therefore imperative. SAFI has built in over 50 years of its reputation as a manufacturer of robust valves, thanks to the excellence of its designs and the rigor of its processes.

As an ISO 9001 certified company, quality is a value shared by everyone and not just a simple certificate. It is a daily organization well anchored in the group’s culture and structured by applied operating processes.

All of the company is hence working towards a single objective: the satisfaction and safety of their customers.

As a member of directives committees, SAFI carefully apply the directives and standards that are currently in force; in to the design, production and control of plastic valves and their accessories. SAFI have also defined and hold themselves to their own higher standards; which are more restrictive than current directives. For example, they run a tightness test on every single valve

SAFI is a technical leader in the field of industrial thermoplastic valves.

SAFI Products

SAFI have a catalogue of over 8000 products that meet the demanding needs of most of the processes found across multiple industries.

SAFI produce valves in many plastic materials including PVC, ABS & Polypropylene to take advantage of each of the distinct polymer properties and to meet the different demands of various industrial processes.

Glass Reinforced Polyropylene (GRPP)

SAFI have engineered their own Glass Reinforced Polypropylene material; which meets the demands of a wide range of various processes and is therefore popular across industries.

SAFI's GRPP is a composite of polypropylene polymer that also contains 20% borosilicate glass of type "C" chemically resistant and is resistant to temperatures from -10 up to 100°C. The addition of the glass fibre significantly (x2) improves its mechanical resistance to yield stress and impact over standard Polypropylene. Its resistance to UV is improved by addition of carbon pigments and UV stabilisers. All of which increases mean-time between repair/service.

The wide temperature range of the GRPP material has enabled components made from it to be integrated within systems composed of other materials, as the glass reinforced polypropylene has heat resistance beyond the scope of most standard polymers.

SAFI GRPP: Trusted worldwide across industries because it performs.

As an approved SAFI distributor; Pipe Warehouse UK holds many SAFI products for immediate dispatch and can facilitate orders for other SAFI products too.

Pipe Warehouse UK Inventory of SAFI Products

Plastic Piping Material Properties

Wed, 10 May 2023 08:02:26 GMT

How to begin selecting the right piping material for your application

Careful consideration is needed when selecting piping material to ensure the material properties meet the requirements of the intended piping application.

Each individual plastic pipe material has its own profile of characteristics that affects the material's suitability for an intended application. The most common characteristics across most applications that will need to be considered are;

• Material's temperature profile
• Resistance to aggressive medias

• Impact resistance
• Connection methods

The correct selection of piping material will increase the longevity of the pipeline and help avoid many problems that may arise during the pipe system's lifetime. In the following article we explain a little more about each of the common considerations that should be made.

WORKING TEMPERATURE RANGE COMPARISON CHART

MATERIAL CONNECTION METHODS

Temperature Ranges of Plastic Pipe Materials

We have compiled the chart above to demonstrate the working temperature range within which each plastic pipe material is expected to function normally, before its effectiveness as a piping material becomes compromised. Working temperature or operating temperature, is the temperature to which the material is exposed for sustained periods of time during operation.

As you can see from the temperature comparison chart there is a lot of variation in the temperature ranges between materials. There is, however, an overlap across the range of plastic piping materials, between 0°C and 60°C. So if the intended application has maximum and minimum temperatures within this overlap range, then there are multiple options for suitable materials. As the required temperature range of a piping system moves beyond the 0 to 60°c range, then options become more limited; ABS or HDPE being more suited to lower temperatures, whereas Polypropylene and PVDF being more capable of handling temperatures over & above 60°C are suitable options for higher temperatures.

Relationship between temperature and pressure

All pressure ratings are provided based on the piping of water at 20°C, and as temperature increases the plastic material will soften and be less capable of handling high pressures. Each pipe material is subject to what is known as pressure-derating, where the maximum pressure for each pressure rating & pipe material can be calculated for given temperatures. See here for derating information

Connection Methods

Simply put, this is the method that the fitter will use to make joints in the pipe system.

Solvent cement jointing is the easiest and most well-known pipe jointing method and consists of using a "glue" to join pipe to fittings. Technically, it is a cement, that dissolves the surface of the material on the outside of the pipe and the inside of a fitting and when they are pressed together the surfaces become welded together, creating a leak-free & pressure-resistant joint.

Fusion Methods

Certain plastic piping materials, by their design are resistant to solvents and therefore cannot be solvent cemented and must be fused together by an alternative method. Fusion is actually a broad term, as there are multiple fusion methods, but each fusion method involves applying energy to the surfaces of the pipe and pipe fitting, which softens them. As the surfaces are pressed together they set and become fused together to form the pressure-resistant joint.

In the instances of Socket fusion & Butt Fusion, it is thermal energy that is used to soften the surfaces allowing them to be fused together. The connecting surfaces are heated to melting and the connecting faces are then pushed together precisely to create the joint.

Then there is also Electro-fusion and IR Fusion, which employ electricity and infra-red respectively, to form the joints.

Whichever fusion method is employed in making the joints for the pipework, it will involve special fusion equipment. This, in turn makes the use of these pipe materials that require fusion, not so desirable to the amateur pipe fitter or to the professional in less demanding applications, as it tends to be easier to make solvent cement joints.

Chemical Resistance Profiles

If you are intending to use the pipe to convey any fluid other than water, then it is always advisable to check the suitability of the piping material. Remember to check the resistance data for all of the chemicals, with which the pipeline will be expected come into contact.

Each plastic pipe material varies in its ability to resist different chemicals at differing temperatures.

It is really beyond the scope of this article to present all of the information regarding chemical resistance data for every material, as you may imagine, these lists of data are quite large. So, having read the previous sections relating to temperature and connection method; we suspect that you are already thinking of a particular material for your pipeline project and we have prepared links to the chemical resistance information on our site for each individual material ;

Choose a material to see chemical resistance data

SDR (Standard Dimension Ratio)

Tue, 09 May 2023 10:03:21 GMT

Understanding the SDR rating of pressure pipes

What SDR means

Standard Dimension Ratio or SDR describes a pipe's geometry, it is simply the ratio of outer diameter of the pipe to its wall thickness. As an example, a pipe with SDR11 has an outer diameter that is 11 times its wall thickness. Therefore, if the outer diameter or OD of the pressure pipe is known, then the wall thickness can be calculated for any given SDR number.

The Higher the SDR number the thinner the pipe wall is in relation to its Outer Diameter.

The Lower the SDR number the thicker the pipe wall will be in relation to its Outer Diameter.

SDR Calculations

The SDR number is the outer diameter of pipe (D) divided by its wall thickness (s) as demonstrated in the diagram. We can also make other calculations from this with any of the given data, for example we can determine the wall thickness from the outer diameter and SDR number.

Example Calculation

A 90mm outer diameter pipe has an SDR of 11, which means we would Divide 90mm by the SDR of 11 = Wall thickness of 8.18mm*

Furthermore; we can now make a calculation to determine the pipe's inner diameter by taking the OD of 90mm and subtracting 8.18mm twice.

* Plastic pressure pipe wall thicknesses are manufactured within a tolerance range usually fractions of millimetres, so actual thicknesses may vary slightly, but are still very accurate.

SDR & the relation to a pipes pressure rating

The wall thickness of any given pressure pipe will directly correlate to its pressure handling capabilities. SDR being a ratio of a pipe's Outer diameter to its wall thickness in this respect, should indicate its pressure handling capability. However, SDR does not take into account pipe materials . Different materials have very different properties, so therefore SDR does not give accurate indications of pressure rating across the spectrum of different pipe materials. As such, SDR11 HDPE pipe would not have the same pressure rating as SDR11 PP Pipe.

Plastic pressure pipes of different outer diameters , but of the same material and the same SDR , will have the same pressure handling capabilities as each other, because the ratio of wall thickness to outer diameter and the material is constant across the different outer diameters of pipe.

For example , Our polypropylene pressure pipe that is SDR11 is rated as 10 Bar, and will have the same 10 bar pressure rating across all outer diameters. All of our SDR 17.6 polypropylene pipe is rated for 6 Bar regardless of outer diameter.

SDR is a dimensionless number based on the geometry of pipe. Two pipes of the same outer diameter and wall thickness will have the same SDR as each other, but if they are manufactured from different materials they may not have the same pressure rating, as different materials inherently have different properties. So SDR cannot be used to identify pressure rating across materials, but it can within the constraints of a single material. Our SDR11 HDPE pipe are rated 15 bar & SDR11 PP pipe are pressure rated as 10 bar, which demonstrates this perfectly.

The impact of specifying an incorrect SDR

Incorrect specification of the SDR for your pipeline can result in various technical and economic impacts downstream from design. These include a lack of availability of fittings, leading to significant costs incurred through custom made/modified products, welding issues on site due to varying wall thicknesses between pipe and pipe fittings, and unwanted turbulence and friction loss caused by irregular SDRs between a pipe and the pipe fittings. To avoid these issues, it is recommended to match your SDR to your fittings. This ensures that the fittings are readily available and that welding issues on site are avoided. Additionally, it prevents unwanted turbulence in your pipe system, which can cause wear and tear on the pipe and fittings. Considering that the lifetime of a pipe installation may be expected to be 20 to 30 years, ongoing issues from mismatched or incorrect SDR would have a long term impact, which can be avoided at the outset. If you require advice on which SDR and fittings are best for your next plastic pressure pipe project, please contact our friendly customer service team at pipewarehouseuk.com to discuss your requirements.

SDR rated pipe at Pipe Warehouse UK

Linear Expansion of Plastic Pipe

Thu, 04 May 2023 09:35:26 GMT

How temperature changes affect plastic pipe & what you need to consider to avoid problems within the piping system

All solid materials expand and contract with changes in temperature. How much expansion and contraction occurs with the same temperature change differs between materials. The Linear Co-efficient of Expansion is the rate of change in one unit of length per each unit of change in temperature. Plastic pipes, such as PVC and ABS, exhibit a significantly higher linear coefficient of expansion (LCoE) than other materials such as metal.

This higher LCoE means that plastic pipes are more prone to expansion and contraction with changes in temperature than metal pipes are. Therefore, if you're used to working with metal, different clipping and support methods are required for plastic pipes, traditional pipe clamps may be designed for metal pipe. Even minor temperature fluctuations can cause plastic pipe to expand or contract significantly.

LCoE - How to calculate the actual change in a length of material for expected temperature changes

Expressed simply, linear expansion is the phenomenon of an object's increase in length due to its rise in temperature. The LCoE is the rate of change in one unit of length per each unit of change in temperature. Using the LCoE, the expected length change in a given length of pipe material can be calculated.

Example Calculation:

At installation; a 6 Metre length of PVC-U pipe is precisely 600cm at 20°C, if the temperature increases to 50°C there is an increase of 30°C. Using the LCoE from the chart above we can calculate;

6 Metres x 30 degrees of temperature change x LCoE of 0.08 = 14.4mm (1.4cm)

The result shows that the example pipe length is now: 601.4cm

Note: If the ambient temperature is higher at the time of installation than the temperature during operation, the pipe material will contract at the same rate. So for the example calculation, we would subtract the LC0E calculation, as shown, from the original material length which would equal a new length of 598.6cm for a drop in temperature of 30 degrees.

The significance of thermal expansion in pipelines

The change in a pipe length can cause damage to the system if not properly accounted for (taken up). If fastened rigidly then that extra length has to go somewhere and will apply force to rigid fasteners and joints and create stress fractures in the piping material. There are two main ways in which expansion can be taken up; one is a natural way with the incorporation of expansion loops or utilising existing bends to create flexible sections and the other is in a designed way with the use of compensators. The most popular way of dealing with thermal expansion are natural ways, so we'll discuss the use of these natural methods mostly throughout this article.

How to avoid damage due to thermal expansion

Proper selection, positioning and installation of pipe clips

Whilst pipe clips are not in themselves a complete method to handle thermal expansion, pipe clips will form a very important part of the overall success of any method that you decide to incorporate. Almost all instances of system damage due to expansion and contraction occur when the pipe is clamped too tightly. Therefore, it is essential to use appropriate pipe clips designed specifically for plastic pipe that allow for free linear movement of the pipe.

The primary purpose of a pipe clip is to support the pipe and prevent it from bowing under the combined weight of the pipe and the material being transported inside. The secondary purpose is to support heavier pipe system fittings such as valves and filters on either side, which will put more strain on the pipe due to their increased weight.

If plastic pipes are tightly gripped and fixed in place, the pipe cannot expand or contract, which can lead to stress fractures, leaking joints, and system weakening. Therefore, plastic pipes should be gently held or supported to allow for free movement through the pipe clip if expansion or contraction is necessary.

It is also crucial to gently support pipes if there is a risk of water hammer from the sudden start-up of a pump or the opening or closing of a valve. This provides a place for the vibration to dissipate.

What Pipe Clips Should I Use on My Plastic Pipe?

There are several options for pipe clips for plastic pipes, including rigid plastic clips and rubber-lined clips. Rubber-lined clips are more flexible in terms of the distance they can be placed from a surface. However, they should only be fitted loosely to allow the pipe to move between them.

Allowing Flexible Sections

What is a flexible section

Flexible sections are the most common method of incorporating a way to deal with linear expansion within a plastic pipe system. Flexible sections can occur naturally at any branching or change in direction of the pipeline. So much so, that it is often the case that people aren't even aware that linear expansion is a potential problem, as they have naturally created a flexible section; until the time that lack of flexibility or improper application of clips causes an issue to arise. The key here is to consider the positioning of clamping & fixing points, so as to take advantage of the natural flexibility of the plastic pipe material and so as to not inhibit movement at changes in direction of the line.

Visualise a single length of plastic pipe that is fixed rigidly at both ends. In this scenario the rigid fixings could be an inlet and outlet. As the pipe expands, that extra length will need to go somewhere and so you will notice the pipe is no longer straight it will curve to allow for the extra length; pressure is now being constantly exerted on the rigid fixings and possibly causing damage, as the pipe wants to be able to relax at this new increased size.

Creating a flexible section

In the following examples of piping configurations, the inclusion of angle joints significantly alters the way the pipeline deals with thermal linear expansion. You'll notice that the elastic energy stored in the system, that was causing constant stress in the example above, is now being diverted away from the rigid fixing points and is shared over multiple joints. The simplified diagrams below are slightly exaggerated for the purpose of demonstrating energy direction and do not accurately demonstrate the flexibility of the plastic pipe which would further take up some strain in real life examples.

Using Pipe Clips in Flexible Sections

Remember, flexible sections are meant to be flexible and therefore careful consideration is needed when positioning pipe clips and they should be employed in a fashion that utilises and doesn't inhibit the natural flexibility of plastic pipe. One major factor in deciding pipe clip spacing in areas where flexibility is required is the flexibility of the actual pipe itself; which is determined by the pipe material, pipe diameter and pipe wall thickness. A smaller diameter pipe with a thinner pipe wall will be more flexible over a shorter length and therefore clips can be used at more frequent intervals in flexible sections. The diagrams below demonstrate the importance of utilising the plastic pipe's natural flexibility, so as not to cause damage from stress.

Pre-stressing the pipe system

What is pre-stressing

Pre-stressing is the act of building stress into the pipe system at the time of installation, so when the pipe system reaches an expected operating temperature, the stress is eased due to the changes in material length. Take our example from the beginning of this article, a 6m length of UPVC pipe is expected to expand by 1.4cm, when the temperature is increased by 30°c; so if the pipe system's operating temperature is 30°c higher than that of installation, then fitting a length that is shorter by 1.4cm will be the correct size during operation as the pipe material will expand with the increase in temperature. The pipe system will encounter the linear stress only when it is not operating and contracts to the original length with the decrease in temperature.

When to consider pre-stressing

It may be that the expected change in length due to temperature change can be factored in to the design by pre-stressing the pipe system. This will depend on different factors, which should be considered first. If you have a system that is to constantly run at an even temperature above or below that at which it is installed, then pre-stressing could be an option; as for the majority of the service time, the pipe system will be experiencing less stress and would only be under stress as temperature changes back to that at the time of installation, when being maintained, for example.

Pipe systems that will experience frequently fluctuating temperatures will not benefit from pre-stressing and linear expansion will need to be accommodated within the pipe system using an alternative method, such as flexible sections or compensators.

Pre-stressing may have an adverse effect when the actual system temperature changes negatively from the installation temperature. As an example; If a pipe system is expected to operate at 50°C and is installed at 20°c with pre-stressing to account for the 30 degree rise in temperature, but then the pipe system is subjected to temperatures of 0°C, this is now a 50 degree change from the temperature at which the system is relaxed, and is a whole 20 degrees beyond the point at which the system has been planned to experience the stress. This extra stress may now be beyond the capability of the pipe to flex & adjust to accomodate the contraction, causing stress fractures and damage to the system.

Summary

The simplest and possibly the most effective points to take away from this article are:

• Keep thermal expansion in mind at the design stage of the pipe system.

• Use plastic pipe clips designed for plastic pipe and do not overtighten. Allow for linear movement due to expansion
• Do not inhibit the natural flexibility of plastic pipe in angled joint areas that can be utilised to take up thermal expansion naturally.
- Keep in mind where the pipe length will want to expand and the joined perpendicular pipes may flex to accomodate.

- Proper positioning of clips will need to be considered, so as not to inhibit flex.

We have tried to keep this informative article purely about pipefitting without it becoming overly mathematical or a lesson in physics, hopefully it will have helped to answer some basic questions regarding the expansion of plastic pipe within a system, however there is more to know on each subject that we have touched on. If you need to be more accurate with your calculations, further reading is definitely recommended. If it is required, further information can be provided, so please do not hesitate to contact us at Pipe Warehouse UK.

Important Note: The data on Linear Coefficient of Expansion of each polymer, as shown in the chart at the top of this article has been provided to us by one of our major suppliers of pressure pipe; however, different manufacturer's production methods may result in slightly different figures.

Union pipe fittings - When and how to use them

Tue, 25 Apr 2023 08:51:46 GMT

What are union pipe fittings, how do they work and how do they help?

Pipe Unions: An overview

Pipe unions are threaded fittings that allow for the easy separation and reconnection of pipe work without any horizontal movement. In a system that may otherwise be welded an inseparable, this function is useful in many instances. All unions have an 'O' ring seal that sits within the union body, that becomes compressed when the union is tightened. Unions can be standalone fittings (as shown in the main image) or they can be an integral part of another fitting, such as on the ends of a ball valve.

'O' Ring Seal Materials

The 'o' ring seals in a union are made from a 'rubber like' material that can be compressed between rigid separable components, to keep the piped media from leaking out from between the rigid components. There are two main materials used for union seals. The 'standard' seal material in many plastic unions is EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) which is perfectly suitable for water and many other commonly piped media. The second material is FPM (FKM), which has completely different resistance profile to EPDM. Aggressive medias can attack the 'o' ring seal material and cause the seal to fail; If piping any media other than water, you may want to double check compatibility.

Double union and Single union

When a valve is described as "single union" or "double union," it refers to the ends of the valve having integrated unions, which consists of a threaded nut that separates the ends from the main valve body. A "double union" valve has a union nut at either end, allowing for the removal of the entire valve body, while a "single union" valve only has a union nut at one end. More information on ball valves

Unions are useful in pipe systems as they allow for easy removal of equipment, such as filters, for servicing or replacement. They are also used in spools of pipe that make up the system.

Union Joints & Flanged Joints Compared

While flanges can also separate pipe without any horizontal movement, unions are a quicker option as they require no nuts and bolts to be removed and reinstalled. However, unions are rarely used in sizes above 90mm or 3" due to their bulk and cost, with flanges being the preferred option for larger pipe diameters.

Union Leaks

The most common reason for a union leak is that the connecting pipe is not 100% parallel to the receiving pipe, causing uneven pressure on the seal. Some fitters may use Vaseline to seal a leaking union, but this is not recommended for higher pressure applications and it can contaminate the fluid in the pipe.

Where to use union joints

Pipe unions should be used at either side of equipment that may need to be removed for servicing or replacement, such as pumps, sight-glasses, flowmeters etc. They should be used at the start and end of a pipe spool, at the end of a pipe where rotational movement is required, and either side of valves that have a solvent weld or threaded connection without unions or flanges.

Ball Valves - When to Use & How to Choose

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 13:54:53 GMT

Overview of Ball Valves

What is a ball valve?

Ball valves are a type of valve that uses a drilled ball to control the flow of liquid or gas in a pipeline. Ball valves have a spherical closure unit that provides on/off control of flow. In the diagram above it shows the component parts, that typically make up a double union ball valve, whilst design may differ between manufacturers, many of these components are typical across most ball valves. The sphere has a bore through the centre. When the valve is in the open position the bore is aligned in the same direction as the pipeline, and fluid can flow through it. When rotated 90°, the bore becomes perpendicular to the flow path, meaning the valve is closed, and media cannot pass through. Ball valves are available in both metal (such as brass) and plastic (such as PVC or ABS) materials. We are primarily concerned in this article with plastic ball valves, as we are specialists in plastic pressure piping.

A ball valve only turns through 90 degrees between fully open and fully closed, which can make it difficult to accurately control flow rates.

Plastic ball valves are typically manufactured between 16mm and 110mm (⅜" to 4" imperial) in size. Valves larger than 110mm / 4" can be too heavy to handle, very difficult to turn manually, and very expensive due to the amount of plastic required.

What is double union?

A double union ball valve has a union nut on both ends of the valve, which holds the connecting end of the valve against a seal on the main body. The union nuts on either side of the valve can be unscrewed and the central body removed for servicing. This enables the main body of the valve to be removed and serviced or replaced very quickly, without cutting the pipe.

When connecting a PVC/ABS double union ball valve, it is important to ensure that no cement enters the body of the valve, or the ball may weld and the valve will not turn. A union end makes threaded connections much easier, as the valve end can be turned independently of the valve.

A single union ball valve has a fixed socket on the discharge side of the valve, and a union on the supply side, whereas a double union ball valve has union ends on both sides. The single union ball valve is usually used on the end of a pipeline, while a double union ball valve is more often used in the middle of a pipeline as the whole valve body can be removed for inspection.

Advantages of ball valves over other types of valve

Compared to gate valves, ball valves are generally more compact and operate at a higher pressure. They also have a full-bore flow without any steps, whereas a gate valve typically has areas where debris can collect. However, a gate valve gives better control of flow rates.

Compared to butterfly valves, ball valves are generally cheaper and have a smaller footprint. Butterfly valves rely on a disc in the middle of the flow which, as well as increasing friction loss, can also catch debris and foul easily. Generally, people prefer ball valves up to 90mm / 3" and butterfly valves above that.

In summary, ball valves are the cheapest option for small, reliable plastic valves for pressure pipe systems. They are the least likely valve type to block or foul and have a full-bore flow when open. Double union ball valves allow for easy servicing, while single union ball valves are typically used on the end of a pipeline.

What to consider when choosing ball valves

Body material: . Generally in plastics; UPVC ball valves are to be used with UPVC pipelines, polypropylene valves are to be used with polypropylene pipelines, and so on. Plastic piping materials have very different working temperature ranges and very different chemical resistance profiles. The decision of which material to use for your pipeline should be one of the primary considerations, so you should already know the material of your pipeline before considering ball valves. The matter of valve body material will have already been decided by your choice of pipeline material as you would want to make sure that chemical resistances and working temperatures of both pipe and valve are the same, or at least similar. See our other articles on material properties if you need to know more.

Seal material: The seals in a ball valve are made from a 'rubber like' materials that can be compressed between rigid separable components, to keep the piped media from leaking out from between the components. There are two main materials used for ball valve seals. The 'standard' seal material in many plastic ball valves is EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) which is perfectly suitable for water and many other commonly piped media. The second material is FPM (FKM), which has completely different resistance profile to EPDM. FPM is usually found more in industrial applications as aggressive medias can attack the seal material and cause seals to fail; If piping any media other than water, you may want to double check compatibility .

Economy or Industrial

You may see an economy valve with the exact same body material and seal material as an industrial valve from the same brand, so what's the difference? All ball valves are all designed to operate in the same way, but are not of the same material quality and standard of manufacture. Across our product range, you'll notice economy ball valves generally have a blue handle, signifying that they are mainly for use with water and the industrial counterpart is either orange or red handled. That's not to say that the industrial valve can't be used with water and that the blue handled ball valve can't do the job of the industrial. The difference is in the testing, care and the precision used to produce the valve. If an industrial pipeline had to be stopped due to a faulty valve, the downtime could be very costly due to lost manufacture or processing time. In this instance, an industrial ball valve with an orange or red handle would be the option; as whilst we cannot speak for every manufacturer's production method; each individual industrial valve may be checked & pressure tested as it comes off the line, whereas, for example; with the economy valves, samples are checked randomly throughout production and random samples are tested at intervals during production. So basically, the major real difference is the expected reliability. Any guarantees of performance by the manufacturer will be dependant on their application, as such, we would not recommend using economy valves for industrial applications. The other main difference between blue and red handle, is the availability of a wider range of sizes and seal options to cope with the demands from industrial applications. Economy valves will typically only be available in a smaller range of sizes and with no option for FPM seals, as their expected use is less demanding than in industrial applications.

Having said all of this above, it should be recognised that in the wider market there are some cheap, imported ball valves of very poor quality that may be produced with a red or orange handle. If you are looking at industrial valves, then presumably quality is a factor in your purchase decision and it is recommended that you choose a valve from a reputable supplier and from a well-known manufacturer with a high quality of production standards. Pipe Warehouse UK only stock branded ball valves from well known manufacturers with time-proven quality standards that consistently meet rigorous industrial requirements.

Imperial or Metric

There are two separate pressure piping systems in the UK. Imperial & Metric, they are not interchangeable. It is not a simple case of converting millimetres to inches as one may think. This is a whole subject in itself and will need more explanation, but for the purpose of this article we'll keep it brief. If using metric pipe, only ball valves that are designated as metric will connect directly to metric pipe and the same goes with imperial counterparts. Convertors and adaptors are available to allow the imperial components to connect to metric components, but this may confuse matters when repairs are required in the future. To keep it simple choose a ball valve with the same designation as the rest of your pipe system. For more information on this subject see our article on Imperial vs Metric

Plain or Thread

This refers to the method that you will use to joint the valve within your pipeline.
The ends of a 'Plain' valve, in the case of UPVC & ABS are intended to be jointed into your system using solvent cement, whereas a valve with 'Thread' ends will facilitate the connection of threaded components directly to the valve. The advantages of thread ends is that components of other materials, such as brass, may be incorporated into the pipe system. The use of PTFE tape is recommended when making threaded joints. All valves that are available on pipewarehosueuk.com, unless stated, have BSP standard thread. BSP is the standard of thread that is the most commonly used in the UK today. Other threads may be in use in the UK, but they are far fewer and mostly found on imported components. More information on BSP thread standard

Size Designation

You should choose a valve of the same size designation as the pipe your are connecting to it, this may sound like it doesn't need to be said; however, there is scope here for confusion, so we would like to try and clarify a few misconceptions and mistakes that even seasoned engineers have made.

Many valves are produced by the manufacturer in both metric & imperial using the same mould for the valve body, therefore the body may be imprinted with both the imperial and metric size designations and if replacing a valve, it may be difficult to ascertain just by looking at a valve body whether you need imperial size or metric as it is the ends that are important for size compatibility.

The size designation of the valve, often shown as 'd' in charts, is either the Outer Diameter of Metric pipe that the valve is intended to fit, which is expressed in millimetres or it is the Nominal Bore of the Imperial pipe that valve is intended to fit, which is expressed in inches and fractions of inches. This should not be confused with DN.

DN (Diametre Nominale) is simply a metric expression of the imperial designation and not the actual outer diameter of metric pipe.
For example; 1¼" expressed decimally is 1.25, this is then multiplied by 25.4 (millimetres in an inch) and the result is 31.75 which is rounded up to the nearest whole number, which gives us a DN of 32. This would not be compatible with 32mm metric pipe and fittings. At Pipe Warehouse UK, we do not show DN information on our website product pages as we find it tends to confuse matters for most people.

If you need to know more about the way pipe is measured and referenced we recommend this article here Imperial vs Metric