low density (compared to other materials)

• low weight
• only few safety precautions required
• easier to use
• quicker installation
• easy to transport

• limited mechanical load
• strength depending on temperature

high toughness

• comparably non-sensitive when installed / under mechanical load

• limited strength
• relative notch sensitivity

high chemical resistance

• very wide application fields
• corrosion resistance
• incrustation resistance

• not resistant to all chemicals
• consideration of temperature and time influence necessary

very little water absorption

• tightness

• no absolute tightness of water vapour

high resistance to stress cracking

• wide application fields

• constant load (e.g. due to cobble in the trench) may lead to failure

high flexibility

• stresses can be reduced and removed by deformation capacities (e.g. settlement, load)

• if the load is too high, an irreversible damage of the material will occur

good resistance to atmospheric influences

• high UV-resistance if additives are used (e.g. special types of carbon black)

• not all additives are suitable for longer outside application

good long term properties

• long lifetime

• properties depend on temperature and time

very good weldability

• substance-to-substance bonds with strength values within the range of the basic material
• extensive preparation possible

• staff who is skilled and well trained in DVGW- or DVS-regulations required

physiologically and toxicologically approved according to KTW-suggestions

• can be used e.g. in drinking water systems

• cannot be applied in high-purity systems (HP) because of additives used