APPLICATIONS · BULK WATER
Pipe for bulk water and trunk mains
Large-bore pressure pipe for moving water from source to treatment works, reservoirs and towns.
OVERVIEW
What the job needs
Bulk mains carry large volumes of water over long distances, often pumped. Diameter, pressure class and the toughness of the pipe all matter, and so does how the pipe is handled on its way into the trench.
We make uPVC and mPVC pressure pipe from 50 to 500 mm. Our pipes are supplied to many of the contractors delivering Water Utilities Corporation (WUC) infrastructure projects across Botswana.
WHAT MATTERS WHEN CHOOSING
- Allow for surgePumped mains see pressure surges when pumps start or stop and when valves close. The class has to cover the maximum pressure including surge, not just the running pressure.
- uPVC or mPVCmPVC is tougher and lighter for the same class. At 500 mm Class 9, an mPVC pipe weighs 162.9 kg against 229.8 kg for uPVC.
- Plan the liftingLarge-bore pipe is heavy. Lift with wide fabric slings or suitable equipment, never by dragging, and protect the spigot ends.
- Lengths and joints6 m effective length up to 315 mm and 5.8 m from 355 to 500 mm. Every length has a socket with a factory-fitted rubber seal.
AT A GLANCE
Large-bore sizes and the classes we make
| SIZE (OD) | uPVC CLASSES | mPVC CLASSES | LENGTH |
|---|---|---|---|
| 315 mm | Class 4, 6, 9, 12, 16 | Class 6, 9, 12, 16, 20 | 6 m |
| 355 mm | Class 4, 6, 9, 12, 16 | Class 6, 9, 12, 16, 20 | 5.8 m |
| 400 mm | Class 4, 6, 9, 12, 16 | Class 6, 9, 12, 16, 20 | 5.8 m |
| 450 mm | Class 4, 6, 9, 12 | Class 6, 9, 12, 16, 20 | 5.8 m |
| 500 mm | Class 4, 6, 9, 12 | Class 6, 9, 12, 16, 20 | 5.8 m |
Minimum wall thickness and mass per pipe. Pipe lengths are effective lengths, excluding the socket. Full wall and mass figures are on the uPVC and mPVC pages.
RECOMMENDED PIPE
Pipelink pipe for this job
What is the largest pipe you make?
500 mm outside diameter, in uPVC and mPVC pressure pipe.
Which classes are made at 500 mm?
uPVC in Class 4, 6, 9 and 12; mPVC in Class 6, 9, 12, 16 and 20.
How long are the large-bore pipes?
5.8 m effective length from 355 to 500 mm, and 6 m up to 315 mm. Effective length is measured up to the socket.
GUIDES
Read before you order
Both are certified PVC pressure pipe in the same sizes. Here's what actually differs, using our own wall-thickness and weight data.
Read the guide GUIDE · 7 MIN READPipe pressure classes explainedWhat the class number on PVC and HDPE pipe means, how to convert it to metres of head, and how to choose the right one.
Read the guide GUIDE · 6 MIN READHow to store and handle PVC and HDPE pipe on siteMost pipe damage happens before the pipe is laid. Good handling on site keeps it in the condition it left the factory.
Read the guideOther applications: Water supplyIrrigationBoreholes and livestockSewer and storm waterBuildings
Tell us the size, class and quantity. We'll quote it.
Every quote is built for the order. We don't publish prices, but we answer quickly.