Performance Evaluation of A Proprietary Design of XLPE Plumbing Fittings Using Non-Linear FEA Contact Analysis

摘要

A proprietary interference assembly procedure for a plumbing fitting used with cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE) tubing is compared with traditional crimping to assess the short and long term leak-tight performance. Generalized non-linear finite element contact analysis is used in combination with pseudoelasticity and creep testing to determine the short and long term performance in terms of retention of grip pressure which is taken to be the indicator of leak-tight performance. The results indicate that the proprietary procedure can provide high contact pressures within allowable stress limits of the XLPE material as well as a more tortuous leakage path than obtained by the conventional assembly, both of which lead to reliable performance.