Understanding Yellow Gas Pipe
When it comes to gas distribution, the humble yellow gas pipe is a vital component in ensuring safe and efficient delivery. Widely recognised by its distinctive colour, this type of piping plays a crucial role in residential, commercial, and industrial gas systems. In this blog, we will look into what yellow gas pipes are made from, their certification standards and their various uses.
The Composition of Yellow Gas Pipe
Yellow gas pipes are typically made from Medium Density Polyethylene otherwise known as MDPE, a robust and flexible plastic that is well-suited for transporting gas. Specifically, the gas pipe generally utilised is made from PE80, an advanced grade of polyethylene. The pipe has a Standard Dimension Ratio (SDR) of 11, indicating its thickness and pressure rating. This SDR11 rating means the pipe can withstand a higher pressure, making it suitable for gas distribution.
This yellow underground pipe is often referred to as MDPE pipe or yellow MDPE pipe.
MDPE is chosen for underground gas piping due to its excellent balance of strength and flexibility. It can endure external stresses and ground movements without breaking, which is critical for maintaining a secure gas supply. Additionally, MDPE's resistance to corrosion and chemical reactions ensures the longevity of the gas pipe, even in harsh environmental conditions.
Certification and Standards
For underground pipe to be used safely in gas distribution, it must adhere to stringent certification and industry standards. The PE80 SDR11 yellow gas pipe is certified to meet the requirements of relevant regulatory bodies, ensuring it is safe for use in gas transportation. This certification typically includes compliance with standards set by organisations such as the British Standards Institution (BSI) and the Gas Industry Standards Board (GISB).
These standards dictate the physical properties, pressure ratings, and performance characteristics that the pipe must meet. By complying with these certifications, manufacturers can guarantee that their pipes are suitable for use in critical gas infrastructure, providing peace of mind to installers and end-users alike.
Different Uses for Yellow Gas Pipe
The primary use of yellow gas pipe is in the distribution of natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas or LPG. Its flexibility and durability make it ideal for a range of applications, including:
Residential Gas Supply: Used to connect homes to the main gas supply, ensuring a reliable flow of natural gas for heating, cooking, and hot water systems.
Commercial and Industrial Gas Distribution: Employed in larger-scale gas delivery systems, servicing businesses, factories, and industrial plants where a consistent and safe gas supply is critical.
Underground Installations: The pipe's resistance to corrosion makes it suitable for underground installations, where it can be buried without the risk of degradation over time.
Utility Networks: Widely used in utility networks to transport gas across cities and rural areas, connecting multiple users to a central gas supply.
Alternative Names for Yellow Gas Pipe
This pipe is known by several names within the industry, reflecting its composition and application. Some of the common alternative names include:
MDPE Gas Pipe: Highlighting the material (Medium Density Polyethylene) used in its construction.
PE80 Gas Pipe: Referring to the specific grade of polyethylene (PE80) it is made from.
Gas Distribution Pipe: Emphasising its primary function in gas distribution systems.
Polyethylene Gas Pipe: Using the full name of the plastic material for clarity.
Yellow MDPE Pipe: Combining its colour and material for easy identification.
In Conclusion
Yellow gas pipes, particularly those made from PE80 MDPE with an SDR11 rating, are essential for the safe and efficient distribution of gas. Their robust construction, flexibility, and compliance with stringent certification standards make them suitable for a wide range of applications, from residential to industrial gas supply. Known by various names, these pipes remain a critical component in modern gas infrastructure, ensuring that gas is delivered safely to where it is needed most.
For more information on yellow gas pipes and to explore our range of high-quality products, visit Plastic Drainage or contact our knowledgeable sales team on 01255 258525.