What is barrier pipe used for?
When laying pipework for potable (drinking quality) water it is important to ensure no contaminants can penetrate the pipework system and enter the water supply, and this is where barrier pipe comes in. Sites that potentially contain contamination within the soil include land in or immediately adjacent to:
Industrial zones
Agricultural areas
Cemeteries
Landfill sites
Petrol stations
Military storage and training areas
Brownfield sites
River crossings
Areas prone to flooding
How does barrier pipe work?
Manufactured with an impenetrable aluminium layer within the pipe wall, barrier pipe prevents not only contaminants such as hydrocarbons from entering the water supply but also acts as a barrier to oxygen, which will encourage corrosion.
What is the SDR rating?
Standard Dimensional Ratio (SDR) is the calculation used to rate the pressure resistance of pipework based on the ratio of outside diameter to pipe wall thickness. If two pipes with an identical outside diameter have different SDR ratings, the pipe with the higher rating will have the thinner wall and therefore be less durable under pressure. The SDR rating will determine what use the pipe is suitable for, but where there is a choice, a lower SDR will be better for longer pipe runs, larger diameter pipes, and preventing deflection during installation and pipelining.
Barrier pipe will typically be SDR11 or SDR17
SDR17 is also suitable for gravity sewage applications
SDR19 and SDR 21 are suitable when a smaller pipe diameter is being used or for a shorter pipe run
Medium-strength SDR35 pipe is mostly used for stormwater and drainage
If you have any further questions around what barrier pipe is used for or if you’re still unsure which pipe is the best for your application, speak with the experts at Drainfast, one of the UK’s leading providers of specialist drainage supplies and related products. You can call them on 01730 774000 or email [email protected] for prompt and friendly advice and assistance.
Written by
Vicki James
Sales & Marketing Coordinator
Vicki is a vital part of the marketing team; from reporting to copywriting, she ensures we complete projects on time.
