Covers HDPE Water Pipelines Up To 60-Inch Diameter and 10,000 foot-long pull
IRVING, TX – August 14, 2024 – A new model specification document for small and large diameter high-density polyethylene (HDPE) PE4710 pressure water piping systems is now available. The document, titled
MAB Model Specification for the Installation of PE4710 Water Service, Distribution, and Transmission Pipes by Horizontal Directional Drilling (MAB-11-2024), was developed by the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) and published with the support of the Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc. (PPI).
The new model specification can be downloaded for free at www.plasticpipe.org/mabpubs.
The document is a comprehensive guide for Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) installations, covering both Maxi-HDD (for large-diameter pipes, 24 inches and above) and Mini-HDD (for pipes 12 inches or smaller) applications.
The specification provides a detailed framework that includes:
- Subsurface Investigation
- Equipment & Supporting Systems
- Safety & Environmental Best Practices
- Project Execution & Closeout
- Bid Document Support
The use of HDPE PE4710 with HDD technology offers numerous benefits for municipal water infrastructure. These include:
- Minimized Environmental Impact: HDD avoids open-trench excavation, reducing surface disruption.
- Enhanced Durability: HDPE’s resistance to corrosion and its flexibility are ideal for long-term use.
- Cost Efficiency: The long service life of HDPE pipes reduces overall operational and maintenance costs.
- Increased Installation Speed: HDD allows for the rapid deployment of water pipelines under roads and urban infrastructure.
“This model specification is intended as a guide,” stated Camille George Rubeiz, P.E., co-chair of MAB and senior director of engineering for PPI’s Municipal & Industrial Division. He noted that local utilities or engineers may need to modify the document to adapt it to local conditions and practices.
The MAB Task Group was led by industry consultant Dr. Larry Slavin. The document was prepared by MAB members and associates as a service to the water industry and was completed in under seven months. The MAB serves as an independent, non-commercial adviser to PPI’s Municipal & Industrial Division.
About the Municipal Advisory Board
The mission of the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) is to improve the design, installation, and operation of municipal HDPE water piping systems. It achieves this by creating partnerships between utilities, researchers, designers, contractors, and the HDPE industry. The MAB operates as an independent, non-commercial adviser to the Municipal & Industrial Division of the Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc.
