Storage and Handling of Thermoplastic Piping Components

Products

Engineering Info

SCOPE
Industrial thermoplastic piping components are designed and manufactured for use in severe duty systems involving the transport of aggressive liquids. In order to ensure their integrity, once installed, they must be handled with reasonable care prior to installation.

STORAGE
1. Pipe – When pipe is received in standard lifts it should remain in the lift until ready for use. Lifts should not be stacked more than three high and should always be stacked wood on wood. Loose pipe should be stored on racks with a minimum support spacing of three feet. Pipe should be shaded but not covered when stored outside in high ambient temperatures. This will provide for free circulation of air and reduce the heat build-up due to direct sunlight exposure.
2. Fittings – Fittings should be stored in their original cartons to keep them free of dirt and reduce the possibility of damage. If possible, fittings should be stored indoors.
3. Solvent Cements and Primers – Solvent cements have a definite shelf life and each can and carton is clearly marked with a date of manufacture. Stock should be rotated to ensure that the oldest material is used first. Primer does not have a shelf life but it is good practice to rotate this stock also. Solvent cements and primers should be stored in a relatively cool shelter away from direct sun exposure.

CAUTION: SOLVENT CEMENTS AND PRIMERS ARE COMPOSED OF VARIOUS SOLVENTS AND REQUIRE SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR STORAGE. BECAUSE OF THEIR FLAMMABILITY THEY MUST NOT BE EXPOSED TO IGNITION, HEAT, SPARKS OR OPEN FLAMES.

HANDLING
1. Pipe and Fittings – Care should be exercised to avoid rough handling of thermoplastic pipe and fittings. They should not be dragged over sharp projections, dropped or have objects dropped upon them. Pipe ends should be inspected for cracks resulting from such abuse. Transportation by truck or pipe trailer will require that the pipe be continuously supported and all sharp edges on the trailer bed that could come in contact with the pipe must be padded.
2. Solvent Cements and Primers – Keep containers for solvent cements tightly closed except when in use. Avoid prolonged breathing of solvent vapors, and when pipe and fittings are being joined in partially enclosed areas use a ventilating device to attenuate vapor levels. Keep solvent cements, primers and cleaners away from all sources of ignition, heat, sparks and open flames. Avoid repeated contact with the skin by wearing proper gloves impervious to the