How can a polyethylene (PE) pipeline owner determine the remaining life of a pipe that has been in service for many years? Advancements in the molecular design of PE materials have improved the durability and slow crack growth resistance of PE pipelines. The incorporation of antioxidants into the pipe material protects PE pipe from oxidative degradation. A study conducted by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) and the American Water Works Association noted that the average failure rate of PE pipes at 3.16 per 100 km was lower than the many other pipe materials.
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