Estimation of Practical Significance for Application of Composite Pipes in Comparison with Metal and Polymer Materials

Abstract

In recent years, highly efficient pre-insulated pipes, made of heat-resistant polymer (usually polyethylene) materials are used during the reconstruction and repair of heat networks. Their advantage is the convenience and ease of installation, long service life, corrosion protection. This material is often used for internal heating circuits when water temperature is up to 95 °C and pressure is up to 1.6 MPa due to limitations of the physico-chemical properties of the material. At the same time for manufacturing of modern, highly efficient and durable pipe system, depending on destination, location and method of installation various composite materials: basalt, glass or carbon fiber; synthetic fiber; rubber, fluoropolymers and others can be used. High specific strength and stiffness of fibrous composite materials, along with chemical stability, relatively low weight and other properties make these materials attractive for the manufacture of pipes for various purposes. The advantages of using pipelines made of composite materials is to increase the estimated service life of heat networks in two times in comparison with metal pipes, reducing the hydraulic and thermal losses due to the physico-chemical properties of the material, and also lower labor and financial costs for the construction of heating mains.