Since the introduction of polyethylene (PE) pipe resins in the 1960s, Iplex has been at the forefront of PE pipe development worldwide.
Over the decades the strength of PE resin has more than doubled and, in turn, has led to larger and more demanding applications for pipe.
Today, Iplex is the sole Australian supplier of 2 m diameter PE100 pipe, with the capability to produce this huge pipe in the company’s factories in Perth, Albury and, most recently, Toowoomba.
In response to the desire for fewer but larger pipelines for both gas and water transportation, Iplex is aiming to be the primary supplier of PE pipe in sizes above 900 mm to the coal seam gas industry.
The growing market for larger diameter pipe demands complementary fittings and valves to complete the system.
To meet this need, Iplex is investing heavily in fabrication facilities in both Queensland and Western Australia and in building its network of European and Asian supply partners.
However, larger and stronger pipe is not the company’s sole focus.
Iplex has identified the emergence of newer and tougher PE100 resins with enhanced resistance to slow crack growth as another point of focus for the company.
By utilising the improved properties these resins offer, large diameter pipelines will be designed, constructed and operated at a substantially lower cost than was thought possible in 2008, when Iplex joined the APGA as a member.
The theme of the Iplex stand at APGA 2015 is “˜Dare to think big’, and will feature a 2 m diameter PE100 pipe and DN630 PE valve, supplied by fittings partner Georg Fischer.
Iplex is the largest Australian owned and operated pipe and fittings manufacturing business in Australia, with manufacturing and distribution capabilities across all states as well as New Zealand.
For more information on Iplex’s products and services visit www.iplex.com.au
