Pipe extrusion: Asian pipe processors to benefit from new random copolymer PP

Pipe processors in Asia now have a new choice when it comes to specifying materials for hot and cold water pipe applications. Marketed by PolyMirae Company Ltd, a joint venture between polyolefins supplier LyondellBasell Industries and Korean polypropylene (PP) supplier Daelim, the new grade, Hostalen PP H5416K, is a random copolymer (PP-R) intended for use in hot and cold water pipe applications. It is a natural nucleated grade said to offer a good balance of mechanical properties, including in terms of heat resistance and durability. 

According to PolyMirae product development manager GY Ha, the grade will address growing demand for PP-R resins in Asia, which has been outpacing supply. "Customer performance requirements have been high - such as low weight along with outstanding long-term pressure performance and resistance to corrosion." 
Hot and cold water piping systems produced using PP-R materials must have a service life of more than 50 years. Just this month, Hostalen PP H5416K successfully completed the 18-month ISO 9080 durability test at Exova Polymer AB (formerly known as Bodycote), the world's largest independent accredited pipe testing lab, and is now ISO 15874-2 certified. The new grade also meets the requirements of the Chinese food contact national standard GB9693 for drinking water applications.

"This development represents PolyMirae's first entry into the rapidly growing pipe segment, and at the same time contributes to LyondellBasell's global sourcing strategy," said Michael Vogt, LyondellBasell's Asia Pacific market manager for the pipe, industrial sheet and pipe coating business unit. "It enhances our position as one of the global leaders in the development of PE and PP resins used in pipe applications, and will enable us to offer Asian customers a high-quality PP-R grade from a regional supply source."