What does the PN rating of an HDPE pipe signify?

PN stands for Nominal Pressure. A PN 10 pipe is designed to withstand a working pressure of 10 kgf/cm² (1.0 MPa) at 27°C (Clause 4.1).

What are the material grades for HDPE pipes as per this standard?

The standard covers three grades: PE 63, PE 80, and PE 100, which correspond to a Minimum Required Strength (MRS) of 6.3, 8.0, and 10.0 MPa respectively (Clause 3.2.1).

What is the standard colour for potable water HDPE pipes?

Pipes should be either completely blue or black with four longitudinal blue stripes (Clause 3.4).

What is the reversion test and why is it important?

The longitudinal reversion test checks for residual stresses from manufacturing by heating a pipe sample. A high reversion ( > 3%) indicates poor processing, which can lead to future failures (Clause 8.3 & Table 5).

IS 4984

: 1995

High Density Polyethylene Pipes for Potable Water Supply

CurrentFrequently UsedSpecificationBIMWater Resources · Drainage, Sewerage and Sanitary Fittings

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This standard specifies the requirements for high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes intended for potable water supply systems. It covers the material grades (PE 63, PE 80, PE 100), dimensions, pressure ratings (PN classes), and outlines the physical and performance tests required to ensure product quality and durability.

Covers requirements for high density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes suitable for potable water supply, often adapted for drainage applications.

Quick Reference Values

Colour for potable water pipesBlue or Black with blue stripes

Standard Pressure Ratings (PN)2.5, 4, 6, 8, 10, and 12.5 kgf/cm²

Material GradesPE 63, PE 80, PE 100

Maximum Longitudinal Reversion at 110°C3 percent

Carbon Black Content for UV stability (Black pipes)2 to 2.5 percent

Opacity RequirementShall not transmit more than 0.2 percent of visible light

Practical Notes

Pipes are colour-coded blue for potable water. Black pipes containing 2-2.5% carbon black must be used for applications with direct exposure to sunlight for UV protection.

Higher material grades like PE 100 allow for thinner pipe walls for the same pressure rating compared to PE 63, which can be more economical for large projects.

Ensure proper jointing techniques (e.g., butt fusion, electrofusion) are used as per manufacturer guidelines and relevant codes to prevent leakages in the pipeline.