Electrofusion is a simple method of joining pipes in circumstances where butt fusion is not possible, incorporating an electrical fitting that melts the plastic of both the fitting and the pipe, causing them to fuse together. Prefabricated fittings are used, incorporating an electrical heating coil that melts the plastic of both the fitting and the pipe, causing them to fuse together. This technique is commonly employed in the piping industry for connecting polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) pipes and is widely used for transporting various fluids, including water, gas, and chemicals.
How Electrofusion Works
An electrofusion control unit (ECU) supplies the electrical energy to heat the coil. When the coil is heated, the adjacent material melts and forms an expanding pool that comes into contact with the pipe’s surface. The continued heat energy melts the pipe surface and mixes the pipe and fitting melt; this is vital to producing a good weld. After the heat cycle, the fitting and the pipe are left to cool, and the melted material solidifies to form a sound joint.
Electrofusion offers several advantages in the piping industry:
- Strong and Durable Joints: The fusion process creates a joint as strong as the original pipe, ensuring long-term reliability.
- Leak-Free Connections: Properly executed electrofusion joints resist leaks, providing a reliable seal.
- Ease of Installation: The process is straightforward and can be performed with minimal training. It also allows for connections in confined spaces.
Versatility: Electrofusion is suitable for various pipe sizes and can be used in different applications, including water distribution, gas pipelines, and industrial systems.