PPR water pipes are widely used in building water supply, heating and industrial pipeline systems due to their advantages such as high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, economy and practicality. However, although PPR water pipes have a long service life, they are still affected by various factors during use, leading to aging. The following will discuss what factors affect the aging of PPR water pipes and how to deal with these influences.
1. Temperature factors
High temperature influence: PPR water pipes have limited high temperature resistance and can generally withstand high temperature water of 80℃ to 95℃. If exposed to an environment exceeding the design temperature for a long time, the physical properties of PPR water pipes will gradually decrease. High temperature will cause the polymer chain to break, thereby affecting the strength and elasticity of the pipe and ultimately accelerating aging.
Low temperature influence: Although PPR water pipes can still maintain a certain flexibility in low temperature environments, extremely low temperatures will also affect their performance. In low temperature environments, PPR water pipes may become more fragile and prone to cracks or breakage. Especially under freezing conditions, after the water in the water pipe freezes, it may cause internal pressure on the pipe, resulting in rupture.
2. Chemical factors
Water quality influence: The chemical composition of water has a direct impact on the aging of PPR water pipes. For example, chlorides, acids or other corrosive substances in water may react with PPR materials and cause degradation of pipes. Especially in industrial applications, the water quality may be more corrosive, which will accelerate the aging of PPR water pipes.
Influence of chemical agents: Some chemical agents and cleaning agents may also have a negative impact on PPR water pipes. The use of inappropriate cleaning agents or chemicals may cause chemical reactions in the materials of PPR water pipes, thereby affecting their performance and service life.
3. Ultraviolet radiation
When PPR water pipes are used in outdoor environments, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is an important aging factor. Long-term UV radiation can cause photodegradation on the surface of PPR water pipes, resulting in reduced strength and elasticity of the material, cracking or embrittlement. In order to reduce the impact of UV rays, PPR water pipes are usually required to be additionally protected in outdoor applications, such as using sunshades or anti-UV coatings.
4. Mechanical stress
Pressure changes: The internal pressure that PPR water pipes are subjected to during use can also affect their aging. Frequent changes in pressure or overload work will cause the mechanical properties of the pipe to gradually decline, increasing the risk of aging. Especially under high-pressure environments, the structure of the PPR water pipe may be squeezed or deformed, which will affect its life.
External impact: External impact and pressure are also important factors that cause the aging of PPR water pipes. During construction or use, the pipes may be subjected to mechanical impact, extrusion or wear. These physical damages will accelerate the aging of PPR water pipes and cause cracks or breaks.
V. Installation quality
Joints and connections: The installation quality of PPR water pipes directly affects their service life. Improper joints and connections may cause pipe leakage or stress concentration, thereby accelerating aging. Ensuring the welding quality of pipes and fittings and installing them in accordance with specifications are important factors in extending the service life of PPR water pipes.
Construction environment: The temperature, humidity and cleanliness of the installation environment will also affect the aging of PPR water pipes. Failure of the construction environment to meet the requirements may affect the welding quality, thereby affecting the performance and durability of the pipe.