United Poly Systems extrudes natural gas pipelines made of PA12 VESTAMID® NRG from Evonik

VESTAMID® NRG thermoplastic was developed specifically for manufacturing industrial pipes of varying diameters. Further, VESTAMID® NRG is approved for use in gas distribution piping through regulations issued by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), which recently updated the Federal Pipeline Safety Regulations standards for plastic piping systems.

For many years, steel was the only material available for gas distribution lines working under pressures ranging between 120-250 psi. Now, VESTAMID®NRG PA12 is an alternative that brings new benefits to the market. This material withstands operating pressures up to 250 psi, making it an extremely viable solution for gas distribution lines. In addition, pipelines affected by hydrocarbon permeation can also be made from Evonik's VESTAMID® NRG, covering a broad need in the industry.

"We have seen the need for PA12 pipe in the gas distribution industry at higher pressures and as an alternative to steel for quite some time," states Evonik’s Business Development Manager, Terry McConnell. "We are confident that PA12 piping will set a new standard in this industry; as it can be used at higher operating pressures than polyethylene, has no chemical derations, has a higher temperature performance and has little-to-no permeation issues. With United Poly Systems as our newest extrusion partner, we have gained a dedicated and flexible production and sales team that cares as much about quality standards as we do."

United Poly Systems produces pipes with diameters from ¾” to 26” IPS and 4″ to 24″ DIPS for use in a number of industries, including telecommunications, power utility, electrical and oil and gas. The market for plastics pipes continues to expand as initiatives to improve and expand infrastructure are implemented. This holds true with the expansion into Evonik’s PA12 products for the gas distribution industry.

Chris Reiter, CEO of United Poly Systems says, “Our success can be attributed to our vast experience, extensive client relationships, state-of-the-art manufacturing and quality processes. Our agile business model allows us to quickly meet customers’ needs without the overhead expenses that are incurred by many of the larger producers in the industry. We’re pleased to be working with Evonik on this advanced material line and are excited for the opportunity to help expand the safety and standards of the gas distribution industry.”

All United Poly Systems products are manufactured in the United States at facilities in Springfield, Missouri and Albuquerque, New Mexico. Conveniently located, UPS can offer quick delivery to much of the U.S. market. United Poly Systems’ exclusive territory includes the following states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

The VESTAMID® NRG pipes offer a unique benefit based on the inherent molecular make-up of VESTAMID® NRG PA12 molding compounds in that they are extremely resistant to heavy hydrocarbons, making them ideal candidate materials for extremely harsh environmental conditions. As a result, VESTAMID® NRG PA12 material is the perfect choice in industrial areas, where the soil may have been contaminated by gasoline or other spills. Plus, it is also highly resistant to odorizing chemicals and serves as an outstanding barrier to the hydrocarbons found in gas condensates such as benzene, toluene, and xylene.

In comparison to metallic piping systems, where mechanical fittings or gaskets are used and tend to corrode or leak over the lifetime of the pipeline, the chemical resistance of PA12 and the joining of the pipes with proven butt heat fusion or electrofusion methods ensure a long shelf life without costly maintenance measures.

Evonik Industries is one of the world’s leaders in specialty chemicals. Its high-performance polymers are suitable for a wide range of uses, including a broad number of applications in the energy sector. These polymers provide protection against corrosion or chemicals, increase the safety of energy transport, and enhance the efficiency of energy generation.