At the IGSHPA Conference

I can't remember leaving the IGSHPA Conference without finding at least a few things that made the time and trip worthwhile. One of the things I saw on this trip was a new product that looks like it can make HDPE pipe connections quicker and easier. Watts Water Technologies had the new product on display in their booth. I spoke with Keith Whitworth and Steve Barrett in their booth who described the new HDPE pipe joining method.

Pipe and fittings are joined by radio frequency (RF) electromagnetic technology. Some of the advantages include:

• Welds can be completed by one person. If you've ever been in the trench with socket or butt fusion equipment for 2" pipe, you know that's not a one person job.
• There are no exposed heating elements, no adhesives or exposed flame...a safer work environment
• The equipment can be used in minutes...no waiting for exposed heating elements to heat up
• Radio frequency uses less energy than conventional pipe joining technology
• Joints can be pressure tested minutes after completion
• If a joint is not holding, the process can be applied again on the same fitting

According to Keith and Steve, the pricing of the fittings is roughly double the cost of socket fusion fittings, but about half the cost of electro-fusion fittings. With reduced time the labor component should be reduced compared to socket fusion fittings. 

Since the product is new on the market place the range of fittings is not yet complete, with fittings currently available for 0.75", 1.00", 1,25", 1.50" and 2.00", with a limited range of fittings, including couplings, reducing couplings, tees, elbows and end caps. A greater range of fittings will gradually be introduced in the near future. 

For further information, the website is: http://www.tritonpipefusion.com/