Plastic HDPE Welding

High-density polyethylene (HDPE) is a versatile and durable plastic material with exceptional strength, flexibility, and chemical resistance making it ideal for pipelines and tanks. HDPE welding is a critical process within the fabrication and maintenance of HDPE systems to ensure their integrity and longevity.

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What is HDPE Welding?

HDPE or plastic welding involves the joining of HDPE components using heat and pressure to create a system that is seamless and leak-proof. Aotea Welding are specialists in HDPE welding and have expertise in the construction and repair of HDPE pipes, tanks and accessories. These are used in applications ranging from water and gas movement to chemical storage and wastewater and sewage management.

With over 30 years of experience and with clients in the water, gas, wastewater and irrigation sectors, Aotea Welding Ltd has gained a reputation for our expertise as quality HDPE welders. We complete most of our work on-site and can achieve superior results on any sized project throughout New Zealand and the Pacific Islands.

HDPE Pipe Welding

HDPE pipes combine strength, corrosion resistance, and an ability to withstand high pressures. They are used extensively in a wide range of industries where, mostly underground, leak-proof and durable piping is required.

HDPE pipe welding includes techniques like butt welding, electrofusion, and extrusion welding:

Butt Welding

Two pipe ends are brought together, heated and pressed tightly together to form a continuous joint.

Electrofusion Welding

The pipe ends are placed in a moulded socket fitting with built-in electrical coils. This fitting heats and fuses the pipe material.

Extrusion Welding

Molten HDPE filler material is added to a joint using an extruder. It is ideal for joining thicker materials.

We are experts in HDPE welding procedures and guarantee a completed project that is leak-free and resistant to external stress, ensuring a reliable and efficient pipeline, even in the most challenging environments.

HDPE Tank Welding

HDPE tanks are ideal for storing and transporting a variety of liquids including chemicals, water, and fuels. When fabricating these tanks, the welding process is crucial to ensure a robust and leak-proof result.

The Aotea Welding team are highly experienced in the precision welding techniques required to create joints that will withstand the internal pressure, temperature fluctuations, and, if required, the exposure to corrosive substances that your HDPE tank welding project demands.

We can custom-fabricate tanks to your specific dimensions and configurations.

Frequently asked questions

Yes. The nature of most HDPE welding projects is that they must be completed on-site. That means, we come to you anywhere in New Zealand and throughout the Pacific Islands including welding services in Tonga, Samoa, Fiji, Rarotonga, and Solomon Islands.

As mentioned above, there are three common HDPE welding methods:

  • Butt Welding – Joining two pipe ends by heating and pressing them together.
  • Electrofusion Welding – Using specialised fittings with embedded heating elements to create a secure bond.
  • Extrusion Welding – Using an extruder to add a molten bead of HDPE material to join two surfaces. This method is often used for repairs or HDPE fabrication.

Each method has its own particular properties and uses. The Aotea team will select the welding method best suited to your project based on the application, pipe size, and project requirements.

With over 30 years of HDPE welding experience and expertise, you can be confident in the skill of every member of the Aotea Welding team. However, we take nothing for granted. On every job we ensure HDPE weld quality by:

  • Using proper equipment – We use certified welding machines and tools specifically designed for polyethylene welding.
  • Using skilled technicians – As mentioned, our team of HDPE welders are highly-trained and experienced in all aspects of plastic material properties and welding techniques.
  • Inspection and testing – Our team conducts visual inspections, bend tests, and/or non-destructive testing (NDT) methods to verify each weld’s integrity and compliance with industry standards.
  • Regular maintenance and calibration of welding equipment – This also helps ensure high-quality results.

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Our team is ready to support you on your next project. Please complete the form and we will endeavour to contact you within two working days.