Electrofusion Bend
Electrofusion bends (elbows) are HDPE (PE100) fittings with built-in electric coils used to create secure, leak-free, 45° or 90° joints in piping systems, particularly when butt fusion is impractical. They are widely used in water, mining, and gas applications for their durability and corrosion resistance. Sizes typically range from 1/2" to 12" or up to DN 400mm.
Key Aspects of Electrofusion Bends
- Material & Application: Primarily made from virgin PE100 black polyethylene, designed for high-pressure water (PN16) and gas (PN10) systems.
- Mechanism: An electrofusion machine passes an electric current through wire coils inside the fitting, melting the plastic and fusing the pipe and fitting together.
- Installation Procedure: Requires precise pipe preparation, including cutting at a 90° angle, scraping the oxidation layer from the pipe end, cleaning, and marking the insertion depth.
- Features: Often feature Fusamatic pins (4.0mm) for automatic welding parameter recognition, as well as fusion indicators to confirm the process is complete.
- Advantages: They provide a fully welded, leak-tight network with no need for concrete thrust blocks.
Common Types and Sizes
- Angles: 90 Degree and 45 Degree.
- Types: Standard Elbows and Duckfoot bends.
- Sizes: Diameters range from 1/2" to 12" or 32mm to 400mm (SDR11/PN16).