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Acrylonitrile -
Butadiene - Styrene
IMPACT STRENGTH
The butadiene constituent in ABS affords unrivalled resistance to
impact. This means Eurapipe Piping Systems may be used in more
critical applications where other types of plastics could not be
considered. ABS is a relatively ductile thermoplastic, which exhibits
very high impact strength compared to other thermoplastics such as
uPVC, particularly at low temperatures. Thus ABS is used in demanding
applications requiring exceptionally high impact strength material
such as construction site safety helmets.
As part of the Euratech Quality Assurance programme, sample lengths of
pipe are routinely impact tested at 0o C as required by the AS 3518
standard. ABS is unique in retaining high levels of impact strength at
sub zero temperatures and is significantly superior to most other
thermoplastics used in pipe systems.
Mode of failure
ABS is a ductile material and the mode of failure resembles that of
soft copper. Failure is by ductile distortion and tearing, the
localised nature minimising the loss of pipe contents. In contrast,
crack propagation and hazardous material fragmentation accompany the
failure of brittle material, such as uPVC.
CHEMICAL RESISTANCE
Eurapipe ABS is unaffected by both internal and external chemical
attack by a wide range of acids, alkalis, ground water salts and other
environmental factors.
ABRASION RESISTANCE
Eurapipe ABS offers outstanding resistance to abrasion and erosion
from aggressive slurries, which can rapidly damage steel or other
traditional pipe materials. The chemical resistance of ABS combined
with impact resistance makes it an ideal choice for such corrosive and
erosive environments. The rubber-like butadiene phase in ABS provides
the piping material with outstanding resistance to abrasive media.
WEATHER RESISTANCE
Eurapipe ABS is one of the most weather resistant polymers available
today. Successful field tests have been completed on piping systems
having been exposed to weathering for over 30 years. Eurapipe ABS pipe
systems are suitable for external installation under extreme
conditions without further surface protection. Long term exposure to
weather elements will result in some minor degradation of the exposed
surface. The degradation results in a reduction of surface gloss, and
shift in surface colour to light grey, and is confined to the exposed
surface only. Long term exposure to sunlight over prolonged periods
has minimal effect on the physical properties of ABS systems.
THERMAL EXPANSION
All thermoplastics expand at a greater rate than metals. Expansion
need not cause undue concern in design or installation of an ABS
piping system provided that due recognition is taken at the design
stage. The reduced flexural modulus of ABS over that of steel results
in reduced loads on supports and equipment arising from thermal
strains. The linear coefficient of thermal expansion of ABS is 10.1 x
10-5
m/mo C.
RIGIDITY AND STIFFNESS
Eurapipe ABS is classified as a rigid thermoplastic over its working
temperature range –40o C to +70o C. With increased temperature, pipe
rigidity decreases thus necessitating more frequent support.
NON-TOXIC / TAINT
FREE
The Eurapipe ABS formula is free from harmful metallic stabilizers
such as lead, often used in the processing of other thermoplastic
materials. Therefore there is no possibility of any toxic heavy metal
substances being leached from the ABS pipe material into the fluid
being conveyed by the pipe. ABS has been widely used for many years in
piping systems for high purity water, medical preparations, food
products and soft drinks. Eurapipe ABS systems are ideal for potable
cold water, conforming to World Health Organisation, E.E.C. and AS
4020 / BS 6920 requirement for potable water reticulation and
distribution.
EXCEPTIONALLY
SMOOTH BORE
Eurapipe ABS does not suffer from internal corrosion and provides a
smoothbore for the life of the piping system. The smooth bore does not
support the formation of scale and slime as cement-based lined
products.
SIZE AND PRESSURE RANGE
Eurapipe ABS piping systems is manufactured in sizes ranging from 15mm
to 630mm. Standard pressure ratings at 20o C start at 450 Kpa and go
to 1500 Kpa (PN 4.5 to PN 15). Larger sizes and heavier classes are in
development and reference should be made to Euratech.
JOINING SYSTEMS
Cold solvent Weld Joining
The Eurapipe size range also utilizes the proven traditional method of
joining ABS pipes, cold solvent cement welding, which provides a
homogenous bond between pipes and fittings.
Elastomeric Seal Joining
The Eurapipe size ranges utilise an elastomeric seal joining system
(Rubber Ring Joint or RRJ)
Other Joint Systems
Other joint systems are also available as standard for Eurapipe
Systems. Contact us for further information.
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