Size range of fiberglass wrapped pipes
The diameter range of filament wound fiberglass pipes can vary from tens of millimeters to several meters. The following are the typical diameter ranges corresponding to the two mainstream processes:
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Diameter Range by Manufacturing Process
Process Type Typical Diameter Range Common Standard Diameters Characteristics & Applications
Fixed-Length Winding Extremely wide range, from small to ultra-large diameters • Diameter 25 mm ~ 4000 mm+ (4 meters) • Can even manufacture special pipes exceeding 6 meters in diameter. DN50, DN80, DN100, DN150, DN200, DN300, DN500, DN1000, DN2000, DN3000, DN4000, etc. High design flexibility, particularly suitable for producing large-diameter, high-pressure pipes. Commonly used in chemical processes, high-pressure water injection, large-scale water transmission projects, etc.
Continuous Winding Covers common municipal diameters, range is concentrated • Diameter 150 mm ~ 2500 mm (2.5 meters) • DN200 ~ DN2400 is the absolute mainstream. DN200, DN300, DN400, DN500, DN600, DN800, DN1000, DN1200, DN1500, DN1800, DN2000, DN2400, etc. High production efficiency, relatively low cost, length can be customized as needed. It is the most commonly used process for municipal water supply/drainage, cable conduits, and other fields.
Detailed Explanation and Influencing Factors
1. Process Determines the Lower and Upper Limits
· Fixed-Length Winding: As it is wound on a fixed-length mandrel, its lower diameter limit can be very small (e.g., 25mm), while the upper limit is theoretically limited only by mandrel manufacturing, transportation, and hoisting capabilities. Therefore, it can easily exceed 4 meters.
· Continuous Winding: Its diameter is determined by the size of the forming machine's head. Changing the diameter requires replacing core components, which is costly and complex. Thus, its production range is relatively fixed, mainly concentrated in the medium to large diameters most commonly used in municipal engineering.
2. Influence of Pressure Rating (PN)
· Pipes of the same nominal diameter can be designed for different pressure ratings (e.g., PN0.25, PN0.6, PN1.0, PN1.6 MPa, etc.).
· For pipes of the same diameter, higher pressure requires a thicker pipe wall, increasing material usage and cost.
· Therefore, the maximum diameter a manufacturer can typically provide usually refers to what is achievable at lower pressure ratings (e.g., atmospheric or low pressure).
3. International Standards and Certifications
· Different countries and regions have their own standard systems (e.g., China's JC/T 695, USA's AWWA C950, ASTM D2996/D2997). These standards clearly specify dimensions, performance testing, and qualification criteria for pipes of different diameters and pressure ratings.
Summary and Recommendations
· For small diameters (<DN150) and ultra-large diameters (>DN2600) or high-pressure applications, fixed-length wound filament wound fiberglass pipes should be prioritized.
· For mainstream municipal water supply and drainage diameters (DN200 ~ DN2400), the continuous winding process is the preferred choice due to its cost-effectiveness and high efficiency.
When inquiring or selecting products for an actual project, be sure to provide the following core parameters:
· Nominal Diameter (DN)
· Pressure Rating (PN)
· Stiffness Grade (SN) - For buried installation
· Service Media and Temperature - To determine the suitable resin type
This allows suppliers to accurately provide products and diameter ranges that meet your requirements.