Non-pressure pipe systems for foul water drainage and sewer networks, including chambers and manholes
Polymer pipe systems provide high flow, long lasting assets that meet regulations.
Polymer pipe systems can help meet sewerage services regulations and have a strong history of ‘adoption code’ compliance, they are covered by recognised standards and third-party product certification is commonly available. BPF Pipes Group members manufacturer branded products that are supported by third-party product certification for added assurance.
Polymer pipe systems can meet required lifetime due to high corrosion resistance and high resistance to long term deformation. Products can last over 100 years.
Polymer pipe systems can maintain hydraulic performance, products have a smooth bore and are available in a wide range of flow profiles e.g. angle, sweep, combined with the high resistance to long term deformation.
Polymer pipe systems can save time, offering flexibility to correct for misalignment, and are easier to handle due to lighter weight (per m) than other material types. Systems are available with different joint types, including speedy push-fit.
Accommodates ground movement
Smooth-bore hydraulics
Manual handling option
Speedy push-fit joints
Choice & interchangeability
SPECIFICATION GUIDANCE:
Guide to leaktightness testing of gravity drains and sewers
Selection and installation of covers for manholes and inspection chambers - BS 7903:2020 v2
TECHNICAL GUIDANCE:
Connecting pipes to manholes, chambers and other structures
Designing drains and sewers for brownfield sites
Effective cleaning of drains and sewers
Recycled bedding and surround for gravity drains and sewers
Selection and installation of plastic inspection chambers for underground drain and sewer system
The effect of sunlight on the physical properties of PVC-U pipes
POSITION STATEMENT:
UKCA or CE Marking for plastic piping systems
INFOGRAPHICS:
Plastic pipes for public gravity foul sewers (adoptable) 100 to 300mm
Plastic pipes for private gravity foul sewers (non-adoptable) 100 to 300mm
Plastic pipes for public gravity foul sewers (adoptable) >300 to 500mm
Plastic pipes for public gravity foul sewers (adoptable) 500 to 900mm
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*Land contamination risk management (LCRM) updated 12th June 2025
Meta-study, ‘100 years lifetime of plastic pipes,’ was carried out by the Polymer Competence Center in Leoben, Austria, and commissioned by TEPPFA, the European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association. It is a statistical analysis based upon significant and independently verified research and findings from existing literature on the expected service lifetime of plastic pipes, and is detailed at TEPPFA website. 100 years lifetime of plastic pipes February 13th 2024
McKinsey report Climate impact of plastics 6th July 2022
Environmental Science & Technology 2024 Replacing Plastics with Alternatives Is Worse for Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Most Cases
BPF Pipes Group publications on PVC pipes: An introduction to PVC pipes PVC Q&A Supporting evidence