Understanding Temperature Requirements of Pipe Plugs

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Pipe plugs serve in harsh environmental conditions in the pipeline rehabilitation and installation works. These conditions could be a very aggressive sewer line, a deep subsea intake line, or a petrochemical plant network, among others. Outside conditions make the pipe plug’s duty harder. Since infrastructure pipelines like these exist all over the world, pipe plugs should be able to serve in different environmental conditions. They should be able to handle the extremes of both freezing northern countries as well as burning desert areas.

What Are the Temperature Requirements for Pipe Plug?

The operation temperature range of the plug must cover the above application fields. Pipe plugs are produced under high temperature and pressure to get better vulcanized rubber. Fiber cords and rubbers are combined, and they become the body of the pipe plug after this process. The pressure reaches 10 bar at 150°C degree in the mold, so the plugs are subject to high temperature effects during production. However, they cannot work over 70°C for the PP model once it becomes the final product.

What’s the Difference Between Pipe Plug Models?

Operation temperature of the pipe plugs varies depending on the model. The Steam Plugs can be used for the steam curing process of CIPP lining. This model has a high temperature capacity that reaches up to 100°C. But other plugs are not capable of working at that extreme temperature. The PP Model can work in up to 70°C heat, but we don’t recommend using it for more than one hour under that condition. The ideal working condition for this model is between 15-25°C.

How Does Temperature Increase Affect the Pipe Plug?

When the temperature increases, it softens the plug structure and reduces the pressure holding capacity. Also, temperature increase will lead to the pressure increase. Both situations increase the risk of the plug failure as illustrated in the figure below. In that case, the Pipe Plug may burst and cannot be used again. The user should be aware of the operation temperature and never exceed it. Otherwise it may cause unwanted consequences. The operator should strictly follow PlugCo Safety Manual.

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What Is the Proper Storage Temperature for Pipe Plugs?

It’s important to note that direct sunlight damages the rubber body of the pipe plug, and due to the black color, temperature increases during the application. If there is direct sunlight on the body of the product, it should be covered by a blanket. After operation, the pipe plugs should be stored in a dark and cool place, between 15-20°C. If used in ideal operating conditions and stored as mentioned above, the lifespan of the plugs will be increased, and they can be reused hundreds of times. Follow the PlugCo Operation Manual for correct usage and safe operation, or you can always contact us if you have any additional questions.