HDPE Pipe Solutions for Natural Gas Distribution

Reliable, Long-Lasting Piping Systems for Natural Gas Networks

Natural Gas Distribution Solutions With PE Pipe

WL Plastics is a trusted manufacturer of medium-density polyethylene (MDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes for natural gas distribution systems across North America. Known for its strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance, MDPE & HDPE are the preferred materials for natural gas pipelines, offering decades of leak-free performance in both residential and commercial applications.

Both MDPE and HDPE materials offer long-term performance, flexibility, leak-free heat fusion joints, chemical resistance, and ease of installation. All WL Plastics pipes are manufactured and tested to ensure compliance with ASTM D2513, NSF Gas, CSA Z662, and DOT CFR49 Part 192. WL Plastics’ high-performance polyethylene gas pipe meets all fusion requirements per DOT CFR49 Part 192 to all HDPE and MDPE gas distribution pipes and fittings.

MDPE natural gas pipe has been the standard for natural gas distribution, propane, and liquid petroleum gas systems since the 1960s. This solid yellow pipe made from unimodal PE2708 resin is UV-protected for outdoor storage for up to 3 years. PE2708 tubing is available in CTS sizes ½’’ to 1.25’’ and PE2708 pipe is available in IPS sizes ½’’ to 8’’.

WL129 - Natural Gas Distribution

While MDPE natural gas pipe is a proven solution, HDPE pipe made from bimodal high-performance PE4710 resin is the future and the ideal piping solution for your natural gas distribution. Because PE4710 has a Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) at 73oF that is 22% that of PE2708, it can operate at a higher pressure than PE2708 for a given DR or a higher DR (thinner wall) PE4710 can be used for a given PE2708 operating pressure. Higher DR (thinner wall) translates to cost savings, lighter pipe, and increased flow capacity.

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JANA attests that WL Plastics is using best practices in producing quality pipe that is in conformance with ASTM D2513-09a.

WL Plastic ASTM D2513 GAS-NR Pipe

Bimodal PE4710 also has better rapid crack propagation (RCP) resistance and slow crack growth resistance (SCG) than unimodal PE2708. Because PE4710 is denser than PE2708, it has increased tensile strength, resulting in better resistance to hydrocarbon permeation and longer allowable horizontal direction drilling (HDD) pulls. WL Plastics’ high-performance PE4710 pipe is available in black with a yellow stripe or yellow with black stripes in sizes ½ CTS through 24 IPS. Black PE4710 pipe is UV-protected for outdoor storage for up to 10 years.

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Benefits of HDPE pipe for Natural Gas Distribution

Leak-Free, Fusion-Welded Joints

HDPE gas pipes from WL Plastics are joined using heat fusion, creating a homogenous joint that is as strong as the pipe itself. This process eliminates mechanical joints and dramatically reduces the risk of leaks, enhancing long-term safety and reducing maintenance requirements.

Superior Flexibility and Toughness

HDPE pipe’s ability to flex under stress makes it ideal for natural gas systems that require performance under variable terrain and environmental conditions. It can withstand ground movement, vibrations, and freeze-thaw cycles without cracking or splitting.

Corrosion and Chemical Resistance

Unlike metal or other piping materials, HDPE does not corrode, rust, or degrade when exposed to chemicals typically found in soil or natural gas environments. This ensures a longer service life and lower total cost of ownership.

Lightweight and Easy to Install

The lightweight nature of HDPE piping makes it easier and more cost-effective to transport and install, particularly in trenchless applications such as horizontal directional drilling (HDD), pipe bursting, and plowing. These methods reduce surface disruption and speed up installation time.

Proven Performance in Gas Networks

HDPE has been used in gas distribution systems since the 1960s. Today, it accounts for over 90% of new natural gas distribution pipelines installed in the United States. Its outstanding track record makes it the trusted choice for utility companies and contractors alike.

WL Plastics manufactures high-quality HDPE piping systems specifically engineered for natural gas applications:

Size range: ½″ CTS to 12″ IPS
Material: PE2708 and PE4710 gas pipe resins
Identification: Solid yellow, Black with yellow striping or solid yellow with black striping color for easy field recognition
Standards compliance: Meets ASTM D2513 and other applicable industry standards
Quality assurance: Manufactured under strict ISO-certified processes

Applications

WL Plastics HDPE gas pipes are ideal for:

Residential gas service lines
Commercial and industrial gas distribution
Municipal utility networks
Trenchless and open-cut installation projects

Choose WL Plastics for Safe and Efficient Gas Distribution

With a reputation for excellence and a commitment to product integrity, WL Plastics delivers reliable HDPE gas piping systems that meet the needs of modern gas distribution networks. Our pipes are designed to perform under pressure, literally and figuratively, for decades to come.

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Case Studies for Natural Gas Distribution

EnCana Installs HDPE for Gas Gathering Systems

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