Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is one of the important factors causing the aging of plastic pipes. Long-term exposure to sunlight can cause high-energy UV radiation to penetrate plastic materials, triggering photochemical reactions that gradually degrade the molecular structure of pipes.
This degradation can make the pipe fragile, discolored, lose elasticity, and even crack, ultimately affecting its service life.
Therefore, it is crucial to understand and master effective pipe protection strategies, such as UV-resistant coatings, plastic wrap coverings, and the use of UV-resistant plastic pipes. Read on to learn more about these measures!
What are the Effects of UV Exposure on Plastic Pipes?
The impact of ultraviolet radiation on plastic pipes is mainly reflected in the following aspects:
1. How Does UV Radiation Degrade Plastic Pipes?
UV radiation, characterized by its high energy, can cause the molecular chains in plastic pipes to break down, generating free radicals. These free radicals then react with oxygen or water, triggering oxidation and hydrolysis of the material. As a result, the strength and toughness of the plastic material are compromised, manifesting as discoloration, brittleness, and reduced strength.
Antioxidants in the resin help, but they deplete over time as the pipe is exposed outdoors. The best strategy is to use stronger UV-resistant plastic pipes. It helps to slow down this reaction and extend the outdoor usage period.
2. Impact of UV Radiation on Plastic Pipes
What are the specific signs of pipe degradation by ultraviolet radiation?
- Pipe fading occurs when UV radiations degrade surface pigments and cause leaching of colorants. It gives a chalky and yellowish appearance.
- Decreased impact strength arises from polymer chain scission. It creates microvoids and lowers the pipe’s ability to absorb shocks. At this time, the pipe is prone to cracking or breaking.
- The surface temperature climbs as pipe surfaces absorb more solar radiation. It speeds up thermal oxidation while worsening any tiny cracks in the structure.
- The tiny cracks on the pipe surface make it easier for bacteria to adhere to the pipe increasing the risk of pollutants entering the interior of the pipe, indirectly affecting water quality.
How to Protect Plastic Pipes from UV Degradation?
Plastic pipes inevitably degrade under prolonged exposure to sunlight, but we can take preventive measures to mitigate the impact of UV radiation on pipes and extend their service life.
1. Physical Protection
- Wrap the pipes with opaque plastic wrap, aluminum foil, or other exterior pipe cover to avoid direct exposure to ultraviolet radiation. This method can directly block ultraviolet radiation. Pay attention to covering every section of the pipe properly.
- When installing or reconstructing an exposed pipe system, route the pipe through shaded pathways. Such shields can lower surface temperatures and microcracks forming over time. For outdoor pipes, underground installation can also be considered.
Such steps matter even with a UV resistant plastic pipe since physical abrasions or stress points can prompt ruin if not shielded.
2. Chemical Protection
Chemical coatings act like a UV protective spray and are capable of reflecting or absorbing UV radiation, thereby protecting pipes from direct damage caused by UV radiation. Common coatings include acrylic, polyurethane, and polytetrafluoroethylene.
Surface preparation is key to ensure that this UV protectant for plastic can adhere evenly. Firstly, thoroughly clean the dust, oil stains, and impurities on the pipe surface, as they can affect the adhesion and protective performance of the coating. In addition, repair scratches, dents, or other damages on the pipes so that the coating can cover evenly. If there are cracks, they also need to be repaired. These measures help you get UV-resistant plastic pipes.
3. Design Considerations
UV-resistant plastic pipes with added UV stabilizers are more effective in resisting UV degradation and can be applied in outdoor scenarios. For example, UV resistant PVC pipe, UPVC, and CPVC pipes made of weather-resistant resin perform outstandingly in maintaining pipe performance and have stronger high-temperature stability compared to other materials.
Moreover, consider the wall thickness. Thicker pipes absorb more UV radiation before penetrating deeper layers to lengthen the pipe’s lifespan. A well-chosen UV-resistant plastic pipe can tolerate years of environmental stress without brittleness or color shift.
Tips: No plastic pipe material can completely eliminate the adverse effects of UV radiation. Therefore, it is recommended to use it in conjunction with other measures for protecting plastic from UV.
4. Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Long light exposure causes chalking, discoloration, or fine cracks on the pipe surface. They are particularly prone to appearing at joints and bends. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly inspect these critical areas and pay attention to abnormal cracking sounds, as internal microcracks may trigger serious malfunctions.
When deterioration is found, replace the affected sections to avert leaks or bursts. Even if you invest in a proven UV-resistant plastic pipe, inspection and prompt intervention ensure its endurance in tough outdoor environments.
LESSO’s UV Resistant Plastic Pipes
When choosing UV-resistant plastic pipes, LESSO offers a variety of material options, including PE, PVC-U and HDPE pipes. They are made of weather-resistant resin that is not easily faded, brittle, or aged. In addition to excellent weather resistance, they also feature high strength, lightweight, easy installation, and low maintenance costs, making them suitable for various scenarios.
These UV-resistant plastic pipes are widely used in water supply and drainage, providing reliable protection and long-term service life whether buried underground or exposed on the ground. Cover with PVC cover under sun or chemical costings can further enhance their lifespan.
Final Words
Overall, the key to getting UV-resistant plastic pipes lies in adopting physical and chemical protection measures, purchasing UV-resistant plastic pipes, and conducting regular inspections. Not only can it ensure the long-term stable operation of the project, but it also helps to reduce maintenance and lower costs. Contact us now to explore specific UV-resistant plastic pipe solutions for you!
