At Bekmar Irrigation, we take great pride in offering our valued clientele a variety of innovative irrigation solutions that include everything from micro-irrigation systems to full-scale fertigation set-ups. However, we also realise that great irrigation systems require certain vital components to operate effectively, which is why we insist on using high-quality parts every step of the way.

This includes the HDPE pipes that form a part of almost every project and system we design and install. This irrigation staple is one of the most important components of any water-based system – it plays a fundamental role in how well it works and how long it lasts. Today we’ll share the answers to some frequently asked questions we’ve encountered about this type of piping.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT HDPE PIPES

What does HDPE stand for?

HDPE stands for high-density polyethylene – a thermoplastic polymer produced from the monomer ethylene. The strong molecular bond and high level of impermeability of this particular polymer makes it exceptionally suitable for use in high-pressure pipelines.

Why are there different colours?

HDPE piping normally comes in black, blue or purple. Black is used for irrigation water, blue for potable water and purple to indicate treated water.

What sizes and lengths are available?

That depends on the supplier you use. When you invest in HDPE piping from Bekmar, it is available in in sizes ranging from 20mm to 1000mm that be ordered in coils, reels or sticks. Longer lengths eliminate the need for frequent joints, which is vital if you want your irrigation system to remain leak-free.

What are the benefits of using HDPE pipes?

HDPE pipes offer a variety of benefits for the private homeowner and agricultural producer. This includes:

• Longevity. HDPE pipes are resistant to chemicals, abrasion, fatigue, seismic activity and corrosion, which means it lasts longer than other types of piping.
• Easy handling. Although HDPE piping is known for its superior strength and durability, it is also lightweight and flexible, which makes for easy handling.
• Exceptional value. The use of HDPE piping leads to significant overall cost savings for both homeowners and agricultural producers.
• Leak resistance. The HDPE material makes it possible to manufacture a strong, continuous pipe that is created through heat fusion, which means there are no weak joints that can leak or break.

How long has HDPE piping been used?

High density polyethylene (HDPE) has been used in municipal and industrial applications for 50+ years. In short – it’s been tried and tested and found to be a great addition to a wide variety of irrigation systems all over the world. This include many South African farms, where HDPE piping has proved its mettle in operations of all shapes and sizes.

Would you recommend HDPE pipes?

“We would definitely recommend the use of HDPE pipes to our clients,” says Bekmar managing director Paul van den Berg. “In fact, we do so almost every day. Our aim has always been to find the most cost-effective, long-lasting components to underpin the functionality of the irrigation systems we design and install, and we have found that HDPE pipes deliver exceptional results every time. As such, we feel more than comfortable in recommending this type of piping for use in a variety of home- and agricultural applications.”

Find out more about HDPE pipes from Bekmar

If you still haven’t found the information you need about HDPE pipes, please feel free to get in touch with our team. One of our knowledgeable consultants will be happy to provide you with the info you require. We look forward to discussing your HDPE piping needs, as well as finding and providing an affordable, future-proof irrigation set-up that ticks all of your must-have boxes.