Many plastic pipelines that have been in successful use since the 1970s and 1980s are now reaching the minimum service life originally projected at 50 years. This poses a major challenge for network operators. The SKZ Plastic Center supports them in this process with comprehensive testing and analysis methods.

Many plastic pipelines are currently reaching their projected minimum service life. This poses a major challenge for network operators. (Photo: pixabay/Gina_Janosch)

SKZ Supports Network Operators in Making Informed Decisions

Do existing pipe systems need to be rehabilitated—or is safe and cost-effective continued operation still possible? This is where SKZ provides crucial support: Through in-depth condition assessments of plastic pipe systems, SKZ creates a reliable basis for decision-making for network operators, utilities, and infrastructure operators.

Plan investments strategically instead of replacing pipes as a precaution
Unclear conditions in the pipeline network often lead to significant uncertainty in investment decisions. It is not uncommon for pipes to be replaced as a precaution, even though continued safe operation would be possible. Alternatively, necessary renovations are identified too late.

Through SKZ’s comprehensive testing and analysis procedures, operators receive concrete information about the actual condition of their pipeline systems. This allows operators to avoid unnecessary rehabilitation costs, prioritize investments strategically, and reduce the risks of failure and damage. In addition, operational safety can be enhanced in the long term, and the service life of existing networks can be maximized.

Greater Safety for Operators and Consumers
The safe supply of drinking water and gas, along with reliable wastewater disposal, are among the most critical tasks of modern infrastructure. Material aging caused by physical influences, oxygen, UV radiation, or the degradation of stabilizers contained in the plastic can have long-term effects on the load-bearing capacity of plastic pipes.

The SKZ helps operators identify potential risks early on, before damage or service outages occur. “Our goal is to provide network operators with a technically sound and economically viable basis for decision-making,” explains Ulli Eisenhut, Group Leader for Special Services and Expert Reports. This enables a sustainable improvement in operational safety.

Practical solutions based on research and decades of experience
As Europe’s largest accredited plastics institute, the SKZ has more than 60 years of experience in research, testing, and quality assurance for plastic products. Network operators benefit not only from state-of-the-art testing and analysis methods, practical damage assessment, and comprehensive expertise in the field of plastic piping systems. Direct access to the latest research findings also offers a major advantage.

A Strong Partner for Rehabilitation Projects
Particularly in partial rehabilitation projects, connecting existing, aged pipe systems with new components poses a technical challenge. In the SKZ’s state-of-the-art joining technology center, a wide variety of welding processes can be tested and evaluated under realistic conditions. This provides operators with additional assurance regarding the joint quality, long-term durability, and serviceability of rehabilitated pipe sections.

Sustainable Infrastructure Through Thorough Condition Assessment
With SKZ’s services, network operators can operate their infrastructure not only more safely, but also more economically and sustainably. The goal is to make optimal use of existing resources, avoid unnecessary replacements, and simultaneously ensure long-term supply.

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