MDPE  or Medium Density Polyethylene, which is used for water distribution systems of today and is an increasingly popular choice for modern systems due to its strength, flexibility, and non-corrosive qualities. 

Like other pipeline materials, MDPE should be properly maintained after installation to ensure it continues to perform as desired and that no premature failures occur. How well an MDPE pipeline continues to function will largely depend on how well it is maintained.

To ensure the overall efficiency of an MDPE water service pipeline, property owners and project managers should adhere to recommended maintenance procedures to provide rapid and efficient movement of water through their systems, reducing the frequency of major repair costs and preventing possible system failures in the future.

Learn why you should always choose skilled MDPE pipe fitters.

Regular Inspection for Leaks and Damage

Post-installation routine evaluations of MDPE (medium-density polyethylene) water supply piping are extremely critical aspects of their upkeep. MDPE piping has been known for its tough and durable performance. However, external forces (i.e., soil movement, unwanted impacts, sub-standard work) can negatively affect the performance of these pipes over time with relatively minor issues.

By regularly conducting evaluations, you will have the opportunity to find small issues (like small leaks and/or weak joints) and correct them before they become larger issues or cause you to incur large expenses for repairs.

During your routine evaluation, here are some of the critical items that you should inspect:

• Visual signs of leaks at joints and/or fittings.
• Verify the joint locations where pipe ends meet any additional components (e.g., valves and/or fittings).
• Check for cracks or other forms of surface damage.
• Identify any significant change in your current water pressure.
• Look for unexplained wet or damp ground in the vicinity of your underground piping.

By performing inspections periodically, you can help to ensure your piping system continues to operate correctly. For large-sized piping installations, piping operations will normally use leak detection or pressure monitoring devices to make the evaluation very efficient.

If you’re comparing pipes, check is MDPE better than HDPE here.

Maintain Proper Water Pressure

Water pressure levels are an important factor in protecting MDPE pipe systems and providing a consistent supply of water. Although MDPE pipes are manufactured to withstand high-pressure conditions, variable or excessive amounts of water pressure can cause undue stress to the entire pipeline system.

Excessive water pressure may create weak points in both the joints and fittings over time, which could result in leaks or deformities in the MDPE pipes. Alternatively, very low levels of water pressure may negatively impact water delivery by reducing the overall efficiency of the system.

To help monitor and maintain water pressure, performing these practices can help achieve this goal:

Install pressure regulators

A pressure regulator will assist in maintaining a constant water pressure on the MDPE pipe system.

Regularly monitor water pressure

It is highly recommended that pressure gauges be placed throughout the MDPE pipes at various points to assist in monitoring fluctuations in water pressure.

Avoid sudden pressure increases (water hammer)

A ‘water hammer’ effect is when an excess amount of pressure suddenly builds up and creates a spike in water supply lines, which is extremely damaging if not properly contained.

Use compatible fittings / valves

Every component in the MDPE pipe system (fittings and valves) must be rated for equal pressures as those of the MDPE pipes.

Read more about MDPE pipes for safe drinking water before choosing pipes.

Protect Pipes from External Damage

One of the major causes of pipeline failure, particularly for sub-surface water distribution systems, is outside forces causing damage. While MDPE pipe is inherently flexible and strong against impact, MDPE pipe can still sustain damage from heavy payloads, construction activities, or changes in the environment. 

MDPE pipe, placed below-grade, is vulnerable to damage from: 

• Excavation
• Construction operations
• Sharp objects within the soil around the pipe.

To ensure the integrity of the pipe and minimize the likelihood of failure, it is essential to implement the following protective measures:

• Beneficially and clearly marked pipeline route
• Clearly marked pipeline routes enable better estimations of accidental excavation during construction and landscaping activities. 
• Proper bedding material will be used.
• Bedding materials of sand or soft soil can be used to protect the pipe from sharp rock or debris. 
• No excessive surface loads.
• Vehicles or construction equipment should not be operated over shallowly placed pipelines. 
• Where warranted, protective casing/sleeving; 

In high-risk areas, protective casings/sleeves can provide an additional layer of protection to the MDPE pipe.

Prevent Blockages and Sediment Build-Up

The presence of blockages and sediment build up within any water pipeline system can affect the flow of water. This is true of MDPE pipe installations and can occur anywhere over time with minerals, dirt, or debris settling out from the water supply and impacting the efficiency of the pipe due to reduced flow capacity or the potential for blockages to occur.

MDPE piping has smooth internal surfaces and are resistant to build-up, but regular scheduled preventive maintenance is crucial to successful long-term performance.

Presenting some useful preventive maintenance methods include:

Installation of a filtering device: A filtering device will assist in the protection of debris materials and sedimentation entering into the pipeline system.

Periodic flushing of the system: Flushing of the system will assist in the removal of accumulated solid particulates from the pipe and assist in maintaining a smooth water flow.

Routine sampling and testing of water quality: Water quality that is globally poor may result in increased sedimentation rates.

Cleaning of storage tanks and source of supply: By maintaining clean water source supplies, it will also help to decrease contamination from entering the pipeline system.

Check this guide on MDPE pipe colors, meanings, and applications.

Conclusion

After being installed correctly, MDPE water supply pipes require proper maintenance in order to achieve long-lasting effectiveness, strength, and safety. Despite the fact that MDPE pipe material allows for minimal maintenance and repairs.

Maintaining these pipes requires regular inspection, appropriate pressure management, and sufficient protective measures to ensure the effective operation of the pipe’s service life. Following basic maintenance techniques will allow construction owners, contractors, and municipal representatives to provide dependable and consistent delivery of water while also reducing operating expenses.

An MDPE pipeline system that is properly maintained supports a well-managed water supply system and helps contribute to the development of an environmentally respectful infrastructure.

See the complete MDPE pipe testing for leakage and durability explanation.

FAQ