Our Water Main services
Electrofusion
WHAT IS ELECTROFUSION WELDING?
Electrofusion is an efficient method for joining polyethylene (PE) pipes, especially in situations where butt fusion is not feasible, such as when installing valves, elbows, and tees. This process uses prefabricated fittings with built-in electrical heating coils that melt the plastic of both the fitting and the pipe, fusing them together.
HOW ELECTROFUSION WORKS
The fitting's characteristics, including the fusion time, are encoded in a barcode on the fitting. An electrofusion control unit (ECU) provides the electrical energy needed to heat the coil. When the coil is energized, it melts the adjacent material, forming an expanding pool that contacts the pipe surface. Continued heating causes the pipe surface to melt, allowing the materials of the pipe and fitting to mix, which is crucial for a strong weld. After the heating cycle ends, the fitting and pipe cool, and the melted material solidifies, creating a robust joint.
Hot and cold zones, also known as melt and freeze zones, are created after energizing the coil. The length of these zones is critical, as each ensures controlled fusion along a specific length of the fitting socket and maintains consistent melt pressure throughout the jointing process. The precisely controlled pitch and positioning of the coil relative to the socket's inner surface ensure even heat distribution.
The ECU controls the basic
fusion parameters—temperature, pressure, and time—based on the barcode
information from the fitting. It also provides a permanent record of the
procedure followed. Modern compact ECUs allow for safe in-trench electrofusion
welding, which can be performed by a single person.
Butt Fusion
HOW BUTT FUSION WORKS
Butt fusion is a thermofusion process involving the simultaneous heating of the ends of two pipe or fitting components until each contact surface reaches a molten state. These surfaces are then pressed together under controlled pressure and allowed to cool for a specific duration, forming a homogeneous fusion joint. The resulting joint is fully resistant to end loads and performs under pressure as effectively as the pipe itself. An electrical heater plate is used to heat the pipe ends to the necessary fusion temperature.
Pressure Testing & Data Logging
Pressure tests are essential in the pipeline commissioning process, employed by installers and operators to ensure pipeline integrity immediately after construction and before it becomes operational. This post-construction pressure test is crucial for verifying the quality of pipeline materials and construction methods and confirming that the pipeline is entirely leak-free. To aid in the final handover of the pipeline asset, we offer extended pressure and flow data logging services. This allows for continuous monitoring of water usage over an extended period, demonstrating that the pipeline remains leak-free during prolonged observation.
Swabbing & Chlorination
Chlorination and disinfection of water mains and pipelines are crucial steps in the pipeline commissioning process, ensuring the water main can be safely put into operation without posing any risk to the end user. Our specialist engineers perform the chlorination process to the highest standards, strictly adhering to the Irish Water Code of Practice. We have built a strong reputation in this field, delivering this service at numerous domestic and commercial sites across Ireland. Our extensive experience includes collaborations with Uisce Eireann, local authorities, the industrial and health sectors, consultant engineers, and civil contractors.