After a proven track record of more than six years within the field of sewer rehabilitation and new-build projects, the SIMOFUSE® system has been further refined and granted official approval as a joining method suitable for pressurised applications. As a result, these specialist products can now also be used in projects involving underground wastewater pressure pipes as well as overground pressure piping systems.

The requirements in respect of pressure pipes and their installation are outlined in DIN EN 12201 [Plastic piping systems for water supply, and for drainage and sewerage under pressure – Polyethylene (PE)]. The corresponding testing programme was developed on the basis of this standard.

In its capacity as an independent inspection body, "Staatliche Materialprüfungsanstalt (MPA) Darmstadt" was responsible for monitoring product tests and certifying that the products are fit for purpose on the basis of their assessments.

Scope of the testing programme:

• Type testing (TT)
• Audit testing (AT)
• Batch release testing (BRT)

The three principal tests conducted within the programme are:

• Internal pressure creep rupture test according to DIN EN ISO 1167 1/2
• Tensile creep test according to DVS 2203- 4 BB1
• Shear and peeling tests according to DVS 2203-6 BB1

The two key factors to be assessed as part of these tests for the purpose of providing details concerning the weld joint quality are:

1. Strength under internal pressure
2. Behaviour of welded joint when exposed to sustained loading

Based on extensive testing, the maximum pressure level was approved for the relevant applications. As SIMOFUSE® produces an overlapping joint, the nominal pressure has to be adjusted accordingly. This is generally done by applying the nominal pressure with a minimum safety factor of 1.25, based on water as the substance to be conveyed and a service life of 50 years.

SIMOFUSE® – Key Advantages

SIMOFUSE® combines the benefits of rapid installation known from conventional socket connection methods with those of permanent and integral joining achieved by means of electrofusion welding.

During the manufacturing process, the pipe modules are equipped with a machined socket and spigot end. This ensures a perfect fit without the need for time-consuming geometric adjustments.

The electrofusion filaments are then integrated within the spigot end of the pipe module. The filaments are incorporated fully within the polyethylene, which provides suitable protection during transportation and installation. Thanks to the large weld zone, together with the precision fit and optimised weld parameters, SIMOFUSE® creates a high-quality joint in accordance with DVS Guideline 2207.

Advantages

• Ready to install without the need for onsite welding preparations (simple installation and no peeling of pipe ends)
• Greater efficiency during pipe installation due to optimised joining cycles with reduced weld and cooling times
• Perfect for relining or confined spaces, with no need to increase outer pipeline circumference (as in the case of external electrofusion sockets)
• No weld bead, either on the inside or on the exterior (as in the case of heated-tool butt welding)
• Minimal space requirements, as no cumbersome butt welding machine is needed
• No hollow or cavity required in sand bed as in the case of electrofusion socket welding
• Absolutely tight, axial-restraint pipe connection