Latest Developments at Berlin Conference

For example, the most comprehensive study on the effects of hydrocarbon permeation within polyethylene gas pipelines will be presented by Ernest Lever. Lever leads research, development and deployment of plastic pipe systems and other products at the Gas Technology Institute in the US. He will also present the first ever evaluation of such effects on fused joints and their life expectancy. It is interesting to note that this study was sponsored by the Department of Transportation Pipeline Hazardous Materials Safety Association.

Further resilience of thermoplasticity, this time in aggressive mining environments will be provided by Jim Goddard. Pipe sample tests from mining situations have been carried out and Goddard will report on what was found and what is sound - when it comes to the right quality for a long pipe life.

Scientific studies

This year, with the PVC pipe industry celebrating its eighty years anniversary since the first installation at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, its pipelines continue to make headlines. Associate Professor Steven Folkman from the Utah State University, Logan will outline a simple procedure for designers that will accommodate multiple stress amplitudes for PVC pipe. His paper will include firm examples for selecting the appropriate diameter (DR) ratings.

Scientific studies indicate that PVC pipe systems are expected to last at least 100 years. A conventional way of assessing the long term hydrostatic strength of PVC pipes is through a gelation test. However, Fu Zhimin from Goody Technology in China will introduce a more simple and environmentally sound method to evaluate the gelation level of PVC pipes.

The Conference will also hear from Jesse L. Beaver from Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc. Beaver will review a new standard practice for the structural design of annular corrugated wall sewer pipe. His paper provides the basis for technical modifications that will improve the design method of such installations.

Trenchless and ageless

In the plastic pipe world, case histories are always a source of interest and knowledge when they are presented by closely involved experts. With the prevalence of aging pipe infrastructure in the US, Luis Agular from the Miami-Dade Water & Sewer department will relate his experience in sliplining in Miami as well as in other major cities.

Zoran Davidovski, Chairman of PLASTIC PIPES XVIII notes: “Our Abstract Book summarizes 118 presentations that reflect an industry characterized by continuous development in its technology and business. Contributing authors are from over thirty countries and represent a wide range of subjects from market issues to solutions, application areas, processing, test methods, performance and sustainability.”

The Abstract Book can be viewed on http://www.ppxviii.com.

Member associations of the PPCA comprise the PE100+ Association, Plastics Pipe Institute, PVC4Pipes and The European Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (TEPPFA).

Main corporate sponsors for PLASTIC PIPES XVIII are Baerlocher and Rollepaal. Gold sponsors include Dow and Trelleborg and silver sponsors are Krauss Maffei Berstorff, MOL and PENTA. PE100+ Association and PVC4Pipes will provide the IPAD corner. Gala Dinner sponsorship is provided by TEPPFA that is celebrating its 25 years anniversary this year. Lunch sponsors are battenfeld-cincinnati and TECNOMATIC.

Information concerning conference registration, papers, exhibition and sponsorship can be found at www.ppxviii.com.

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