Waterworks applications for either potable water supply, non-potable water supply, drainage, wastewater, or industrial piping applications have all typically been done using HDPE Pipe. HDPE Pipes tend to stand up well over time because they will not otherwise degrade, corrode, or become brittle.

HDPE Pipe can generally withstand exposure to sunlight but only to a subsequent exposure limit. However, using UV (ultraviolet)light over time will ultimately impact the performance of HDPE Pipe if not manufactured with proper protection/UV stabilizers intended to protect the pipe.

Maintaining your HDPE Pipe provides guidance on protecting your pipes from deterioration. Proper manufacturing and UV stabilizer coating should be combined with good practice for landscaping/irrigation management, operating procedures, and maintaining equipment such as boom mowers, lawn tractors, etc.

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Effects of Sunlight on HDPE Pipes

The sun’s rays are one of the most significant influences on the HDPE pipe material, specifically by way of exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation via the sun’s rays. While HDPE has a strong natural ability to resist many environmental factors, prolonged constant exposure to UV radiation will cause slow degradation of the pipe material over an extended period of time.

The effects of the sunlight on HDPE pipe include:

Cosmetic damage: Prolonged exposure to UV rays may cause the piping surface to become brittle and or chalky, which affects the aesthetics of the pipe.

Color fading: The pipe’s original colour may fade due to prolonged exposure to the sunlight.

Reduced mechanical properties: Prolonged exposure to UV radiation will result in the possible reduction of tensile strength and/or flexibility.

Temperature increase: UV radiation will radiate some level of heat to the pipe wall, thus increasing the temperature of the pipe wall and subsequently affecting the associated pressure rating of the pipe.

It should be noted that most of the current manufactured HDPE piping is produced with the incorporation of black carbon or UV stabilizers. The addition of these materials to the piping has greatly improved the ability of the HDPE piping to withstand exposure to sunlight in outdoor applications for extended periods of time without significant issues.

Does UV Radiation Damage HDPE Pipes?

HDPE pipes are affected by UV radiation with time. The effect depends on the type and length of UV exposure affecting the pipes.

• UV radiation exposure can result in slow degradation of the surface of the pipe, which would cause some degree of brittleness.
• It is also possible for the color to fade if a pipe is exposed to sunlight for an extended period.
• The mechanical strength of the pipe may also experience some loss after being continuously exposed for many years.
• Pipes made from materials with additives such as carbon black that are intended for UV stabilization are able to withstand UV damage very well.

Overall, UV radiation does not cause an immediate effect on HDPE pipes. High-quality HDPE pipes should be able to deliver performance for many years outdoors. Discover the difference between HDPE Pipes and MDPE pipes, and learn which one is better for your water supply needs, by reading our comparison guide.

How to Protect HDPE Pipes from Sunlight

While HDPE pipes have good UV resistance, taking proactive steps to protect your pipes will further prolong their useful life.

Some effective methods of protecting HDPE pipes include:

Select UV stabilized pipe products: Ensure that you use only pipe products designed for use outside.

Use protective coatings: Protective coatings/paints can help block UV rays from affecting your pipe and deteriorating it.

Protect the pipe from direct sunlight: Insulate pipes; use sleeves/covers to physically protect pipes from direct sunlight.

Store HDPE properly until the time of installation:

• Store pipes in the shade
• Do not stack pipes and place in direct sunlight for extended periods
• Install pipes underground when possible. Installing pipes underground eliminates UV radiation from reaching the pipe.

These simple steps will help support the structural integrity and performance of HDPE pipes for many years. Learn about the Best HDPE Installation Service Provider in Delhi and how they can help you with your HDPE pipe installation needs.

Applications Where Sunlight Exposure Is Acceptable

HDPE piping will typically be utilized in applications that can’t avoid the exposure of sun. Correct material selection will allow for the pipe to perform successfully under those conditions.  Common application types of HDPE piping are as follows:

Temporary water supply lines: supply lines during construction or for emergency temporary service, etc.

Industrial piping systems: Specifically in open areas where underground piping installations cannot be accomplished.

Telecom or cable protective ducts: Generally installed in outdoor applications.

UV stabilized HDPE piping applications provide a reliable performance level despite continuous UV sun exposure.

Conclusion

Most HDPE pipes can resist UV rays when they have been treated with a UV stabilizer such as carbon black. Although there will be minor amounts of surface degradation after prolonged exposure to UV light, the performance of HDPE pipe will generally not be affected by this degradation, as long as adequate preventive measures are taken to minimize exposure. Purchasing high-quality UV-resistant HDPE pipe and implementing protective measures will provide long-lasting protection for making installed HDPE pipe last longer in the environment.

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