HDPE pipe welding is a process that fuses an HDPE conduit to a fitting or another piece of conduit. The time it takes to complete the process depends on the methodology and equipment. Joins may be created using several different processes, such as butt fusion, electrofusion, saddle fusion, and socket fusion. An HDPE fusion machine simplifies the process without impacting the integrity and properties of the high-density polyethylene pipe. It may also ensure faster fusion to increase productivity.
Butt welding
Butt or fusion welding relies on a heated plate on the HDPE pipes’ squared ends. The heating plate is removed after a particular period, and the pieces are combined and cooled under pressure. Here is an overview of the maximum heater plate removal times according to different pipe wall thicknesses:
20” to 0.36” – 8 seconds>0.3” to 0.55” – 10 seconds>0.55” to 1.18” – 15 seconds>1.18” to 2.5” – 20 seconds>2.5” to 4.5” – 25 seconds
An HDPE fusion machine can join one or two pipes to a fitting.
Socket fusion welding
Socket fusion welding uses custom heating plates instead of standard flat plates. The specially shaped plates cover most of the pipe’s surface area to reduce the time to heat and fuse the pipe. The process typically refers to joining a pipe to a fitting instead of one pipe to another, but it is usually preferred for pipes less than 4”.
Depending on the pipe size, the heating times could take anywhere from seven to thirty seconds, and cooling times can range from 30 to 60 seconds.
Saddle fusion
Saddle or sidewall fusion is like socket fusion but for joining a perpendicular fitting to a pipe’s surface. The fitting and pipe can go under pressure. The heating and cooling times are as follows:
1 to ¼” IPS – Not exceeding 15 seconds when hot topping (heating), and 5 to 30 minutes (minimum cooling time)2” IPS – Same as above, but with a minimum of 10 to 30 minutes for cooling3” IPS or more – 1/16” melt pattern at the fitting base, with 10 to 30 minutes to cool.
Invest in the right machinery
Be sure to get a high-quality HDPE fusion machine that can speed up the process of fusing HDPE pipes and fittings. It will save you time while preventing costly errors.
About the author:
This article is written by team Riyang Marketing Dept. Riyang Welding, founded in 2010, a leading China-based manufacturer specializing in thermoplastic welding machines known for their excellent engineering, ease to use, and ability to survive in the toughest conditions.
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