Why PE pipes are black

Common Question: Many people wonder why PE pipes, which are produced from

Differences Between White, Black, and Colored PE Pipes

UV Protection:

Black PE Pipes:

■ Black masterbatch (color masterbatch) is added during production to prevent ultraviolet (UV) light from breaking down the polyethylene molecular chains.

■ The black color significantly extends the pipe’s service life by making it more resistant to aging and UV radiation.

■ Typically, 1%-3% of black masterbatch is added depending on production processes and technical requirements.

White PE Pipes:

■ Previously common, especially for deeply buried applications where UV exposure isn’t a concern.

■ White pipes do not require additional color masterbatch.

■ However, white pipes can suffer from molecular fatigue and aging when exposed to sunlight, and they have a slight translucency that allows light to penetrate, potentially causing algae and microorganisms to grow inside, affecting water quality.

Colored PE Pipes:

■ Customizable for different purposes and aesthetic preferences.

Zibo Dingchang Xinlong Plastic Technology Co., Ltd. can produce multi-layer pipes with different colors for specific customer needs.

Technological Advancements

2018 Standard Update:

● Black mixed materials started entering the market, enhancing the physical properties of PE pipes beyond the traditional white plus black process.

● Zibo Dingchang Xinlong Plastic Technology Co., Ltd. has pioneered the use of nanotechnology and silver-ion-based antibacterial features to develop advanced PE pipes for better water quality preservation.

Custom Pipe Production

Customization Options:

● Any color can be customized based on specific requirements.

● Pipes with multiple color layers can be produced to meet particular needs,such as pipes with blue outer layers, white inner layers, and black middle layers.

● Zibo Dingchang Xinlong Plastic Technology Co., Ltd. offers personalized products for unique customer requirements.

Key Considerations for Pipe Selection

Outdoor Use:

Black PE Pipes:

■ Essential for outdoor applications due to better resistance to UV rays and physical impact.

■ Protects against sun exposure and potential damage, ensuring a longer lifespan.

White PE Pipes:

■ Better suited for environments where UV exposure is minimal or non-existent.

■ White pipes may require a dark-colored protective outer layer to prevent sunlight penetration and extend their lifespan.

Industry Trends and Applications

PE Pipe Characteristics:

Hygiene:

■ PE pipes are non-toxic, contain no metal additives, and do not support bacterial growth or scaling.

■ Ideal for drinking water supply, as they eliminate the risk of secondary water pollution.

● Durability:

■ PE pipes have a smooth inner wall with low friction, high toughness,impact resistance, and excellent seismic performance.

■ They can withstand ground settlement without compromising safety.

■ PE pipes are highly resistant to aging, with a lifespan that exceeds traditional metal and PVC pipes, lasting up to 50 years under normal conditions.

Broadening Applications:

PE pipes are increasingly used in various applications, including:

■ Water supply and drainage

■ Fire protection

■ Farmland irrigation

■ Electrical conduit piping

■ Communication systems

■ Sewage and drainage systems

PE pipes have largely replaced older materials like cast iron and PVC due to their superior properties.

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