Why choose HDPE material for pipes?

Among various plastic materials, HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) stands out as the ideal choice for hollow-wall spiral winding pipes due to its unique molecular structure and exceptional performance advantages.

1. Molecular Structural Advantages​

HDPE has a linear molecular chain with minimal branching, resulting in a tightly packed, highly ordered structure and a crystallinity rate of 80%–90%. This high-density structure gives it distinct properties compared to other polyethylenes like LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) or LLDPE (Linear Low-Density Polyethylene). In contrast, LDPE has long, irregular branches and a loose structure with lower density, while LLDPE features linear chains with short, evenly distributed branches.

2. Performance Advantages​

• Strength and Rigidity: HDPE exhibits high strength and rigidity, capable of withstanding significant external forces without deformation or fracture. Its impact resistance is several times higher than that of ordinary plastics, and it maintains excellent toughness even at -40°C. In comparison, LDPE, though flexible and easy to process, has lower strength, rigidity, and heat resistance, making it prone to punctures.

• Chemical Corrosion Resistance: HDPE is highly resistant to most chemicals, including acids, alkalis, and salts (except strong oxidizing acids like concentrated nitric acid). This makes it a "corrosion-resistant expert" in industrial applications, requiring no additional anti-corrosion treatment when transporting corrosive fluids or installing in aggressive soils.

• Heat Resistance and Aging Resistance: HDPE has a melting point of 125–135°C and can withstand continuous use at 90–100°C. Typically black, it resists UV degradation during storage and construction, ensuring long-term durability. LDPE, however, degrades and discolors under sunlight or high temperatures.

• Processability and Environmental Sustainability: HDPE can be easily processed via injection molding, extrusion, blow molding, and welding. It is also recyclable (recycling code "02"), with recycled resin being repurposed for products like plastic pallets or outdoor furniture, aligning with circular economy principles.

3. Cost-Effectiveness​

HDPE hollow-wall spiral winding pipes are lighter than traditional pipes, reducing transportation and installation costs. They can be laid directly in trenches without concrete bedding, simplifying construction and shortening project timelines. Overall, they reduce comprehensive costs by up to 30% while offering a service life exceeding 50 years.

4. Market Prospects and Development Potential​

Governments around the world are introducing supportive policies, providing strong guarantees for the development of the HDPE pipe industry. The European Union's Industrial Strategy​ encourages the transition of the traditional plastics industry towards low-carbon and high-value-added directions, with specific emphasis on the application of HDPE in gas pipelines and chemical-resistant containers. The EU's Plastics Strategy​ explicitly requires that by 2030, all plastic packaging must be reusable or recyclable. As a representative recyclable material, HDPE holds significant policy advantages in the European market.