From coal seam gas to the local distribution network, energy companies are taking advantage of the properties of PE100 pipe, such as flexibility, toughness, corrosion resistance and the installation efficiency gains from welded joints, which provide one continuous pipeline system.
A major yet less understood benefit of PE100 pipelines is the ability to isolate areas of the network via squeeze-off.
Squeeze-off allows pipeline owners to efficiently isolate any part of the pipe network, enabling testing, connections and repair to be undertaken quickly and at a lower cost.
Squeeze-off can be utilised in pipelines up to approximately 500 mm in diameter and the capability is increasing as new technology comes to market.
The squeeze-off method of pipeline isolation is unique to polyethylene pipe due to its inherent flexibility and toughness.
PE100 pipe in particular is suitable for the squeeze-off process due to its high slow-crack resistance.
The level of slow-crack resistance in a pipe can vary and is a direct result of the PE100 resin used in pipe manufacture.
For example, the Alkadyneâ„¢ range of PE100 grades from Qenos far exceed the level of slow crack resistance required by industry standards.
While squeeze-off is a highly efficient way to isolate a pipeline system, operators must ensure they follow industry guidelines and procedures and utilise appropriate equipment.
Qenos has technical experts available to discuss the specifics of squeeze-off and the relevance to PE100 material properties.
For more information call (03) 9258 7481 or visit www.qenos.com.au.