Quality Assessment and Inter-Laboratory Comparison of High-Density Polyethylene Pipes for Water Supply Applications

International Journal of Polymer and Textile Engineering

© 2024 by SSRG - IJPTE Journal

Volume 11 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2024

Authors : Shwet Vashishtha, D. Sarkar, S.P. Kalia, Ayan Kumar, Sarvendra Singh

10.14445/23942592/IJPTE-V11I3P101

How to Cite?

Shwet Vashishtha, D. Sarkar, S.P. Kalia, Ayan Kumar, Sarvendra Singh, "Quality Assessment and Inter-Laboratory Comparison of High-Density Polyethylene Pipes for Water Supply Applications," SSRG International Journal of Polymer and Textile Engineering, vol. 11,  no. 3, pp. 1-7, 2024. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23942592/IJPTE-V11I3P101

Abstract:

The study focuses on an Inter Laboratory Comparison (ILC) program for polyethylene (PE) pipes used in water supplies, conducted in accordance with IS 4984:2016. The program’s objective was to evaluate the consistency and accuracy of laboratory results across 11 participating laboratories, covering key performance parameters such as Melt Flow Rate (MFR), density, wall thickness, elongation at break, and carbon black content. These parameters are critical to assessing PE pipes’ long-term durability and safety, which are essential in water distribution infrastructure. The ILC program results revealed varying accuracy and repeatability levels among the participating laboratories. While most laboratories demonstrated acceptable consistency in measuring density and wall thickness, discrepancies were observed in MFR and elongation results, suggesting a need for stricter control over testing conditions and equipment calibration. Carbon black content, crucial for UV resistance, was measured consistently across laboratories, aligning with IS 4984:2016 specifications. The study highlights several areas for improvement in laboratory procedures, especially regarding the testing of MFR and elongation. These parameters are sensitive to variations in testing conditions, and stricter standardization is recommended to ensure more reliable results. The findings have significant implications for the polyethylene pipe industry, particularly ensuring that quality control processes are robust enough to meet the growing demand for water supply infrastructure. The ILC program underscores the importance of continuous training for laboratory personnel and the adoption of standardized methodologies to enhance the reliability of test results across different facilities. In conclusion, this ILC program has identified key areas for procedural refinement. It emphasizes the need for ongoing quality assurance in PE pipe manufacturing, ultimately contributing to safer and more reliable water distribution systems.

Keywords:

High-density polyethylene pipes, Melt flow rate, Carbon black content, Hydrostatic strength, Water supply piping.

References:

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