PPXX Conference Moves Forward - Technical Program Now Online

Over 400 delegates are scheduled to attend the biannual conference and review a total of 116 papers for delivery in two parallel sessions. Sessions will discuss worldwide advancements in material development, research findings, case studies, non-destructive testing methods and other areas concerning plastic pipe technology and the industry that promotes it.

In addition to presentations and a sizeable exhibition facility, this year's conference will include a scheduled Poster Gallery Walk for the first time. Sarah Patterson, Organizing Committee Co-chair and Technical Program Manager of PPXX comments:

“Our conference is a truly global event that typically encourages human and plastic pipeline connections. This new format will enhance the communication process. Poster authors will be available at various times to discuss their work and provide an additional opportunity for attendees to exchange knowledge and network during the conference. Delegates are still able to visit and browse the Gallery posters any time of day.”

The preliminary technical program has posted to the PPXX web page. This technical program comprises more than 100 papers. Abstract highlights include fundamental research into the recycling possibilities of PEX pipes, increased benefits from the use of nano-additives for making PVC pipe systems and an investigation into the quality characteristics of polyamide pipe welds.

Recycling new pipes from old

For over 35 years, closed-loop collection and recycling schemes for in-service PE and PVC pipe systems have proved successful. Now Basell Polyolefine GmbH (Germany) has achieved a way to recycle end of service life crosslinked PE-X and multilayer pipes. Their conference presentation will explain how they have developed a pyrolysis system in line with the requirements of the petrochemical process.

A catalyst system is now under development to depolymerize plastic waste to make new PE-X and multilayer pipes. Such a prospect would convey significant advantages for plastics in general and for the plastic pipe industry in particular.

Breakthrough from nano-additives in PVC pipes

A breakthrough will be announced to conference in the development of special nano-structured materials for use as additives in the manufacture of rigid PVC sewer and water pipe systems. Resulting benefits in mechanical performances from such pipes comprise enhanced rigidity and a simultaneous increase in tensile strength and elongation.

Dr. Enrico Boccaleri, a researcher from the Italian University of Piemonte Orientale (UPO) will share the results of this three year development program undertaken in collaboration with seven principal PVC pipe producers in Italy.

Raising quality standards for polyamide gas pipes

Polyamide 12 is a high-performance thermoplastic material used in the manufacture of high pressure gas pipe systems. Two research institutes, the German Plastics Center (SKZ) and The Welding Institute (TWI), in cooperation with Evonik and Westnetz, have examined the established quality tests for pipe welds on PA 12 pipes. Their results are expected to be used for training of personnel as well as for the extension of international technical standards.

The international Pipes Conference has posted an online database publishing all papers delivered since their first convention in 1970 in Southampton (UK). Included within this archive are the papers delivered by their most recent event in Las Vegas in 2018.

Organized by the Plastic Pipe Conference Association (PPCA) and held every two years, the Conference and Exhibition are hosted by PPCA members: PE 100+ Association, the Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc. (PPI) and The European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association (TEPPFA).

The following sponsors are already on board for PLASTIC PIPE XX in Amsterdam:

• Main Corporate sponsors: Baerlocher and Rollepaal 
• Gold level sponsors: MOL, Hultec, LyondellBasell, Kiwa, Fangli Group, Banline RTP Machinery Equipment 
• Silver level sponsor: Molecor 
• Gala Dinner sponsor: The European Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (TEPPFA) 
• Official Carriers of the Conference: AIR FRANCE/KLM
• Welcome Reception sponsor: KraussMaffei Berstorff 
• Lunch sponsor: RTP Company
• Coffee break sponsors: battenfeld-cincinnati, Tecnomatic 
• IPAD corners sponsors: PVC4Pipes Association and PE100+Association

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