PE Pipe Vs PVC Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation: Comparative Analysis

With the increasing demand for efficient water saving in modern agriculture, the scientific design of irrigation system and the selection of pipeline materials have become the key. As the core components of agricultural irrigation, PE (polyethylene) pipes and PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes are widely used because of their performance advantages. This paper will deeply analyze the specific application scenarios, specifications and selection suggestions of the two materials in agricultural irrigation, to help users optimize the design of irrigation system.

PE Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation Applications & Parameters

Due to its flexibility, corrosion resistance and low temperature resistance, PE pipes are widely used in the following scenarios:

Drip irrigation systems: PE pipes can achieve precise irrigation through microholes or drippers, especially suitable for cash crops such as fruit trees and vegetables.

Mobile sprinkler irrigation: The lightweight PE pipe is easy to disassemble and assemble, suitable for seasonal irrigation or temporary water supply needs.

Buried underground irrigation: PE pipe is resistant to soil chemical corrosion, suitable for long-term buried use, reduce the risk of pipeline aging.

Hilly and complex terrain: its flexibility can adapt to terrain fluctuations, reduce the use of connectors, reduce the probability of water leakage.

PE Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation Specifications &Models

PE pipe specifications commonly used in agricultural irrigation are divided according to pressure grade and pipe diameter:

Pressure rating: PN6 (0.6MPa), PN8 (0.8MPa), PN10 (1.0MPa), suitable for scenarios with different water pressure requirements.

Pipe diameter range: DN16mm to DN315mm, of which DN50mm-DN160mm is the mainstream model for agricultural irrigation.

Standard reference: in line with GB/T 13663.2-2018 “Polyethylene (PE) pipe system for water supply” standard, to ensure pressure resistance and environmental protection performance.

Advantages of PE Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation

Low temperature resistance (-20℃~40℃), suitable for cold areas.

Flexible and easy to lay, low construction cost.

Strong impact resistance and service life of up to 50 years.

PVC Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation Application & Parameters

PVC pipe is known for its high strength and low cost, and is mainly used in:

Trunk water pipeline: The rigid structure is suitable for long distance and large flow water transmission, such as the laying of the main pipe from the reservoir to the field.

Fixed sprinkler irrigation system: through flange or adhesive connection, high stability, suitable for large-scale farmland.

Open channel replacement project: PVC pipe can replace the traditional earth channel, reduce leakage, improve the efficiency of water transmission.

Irrigation inside the greenhouse: smooth surface, not easy to scale, suitable for humidity control needs in the greenhouse.

PVC Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation Specifications & Models

PVC pipe for agricultural irrigation should meet the following parameter standards:

Nominal pressure: 0.6MPa, 0.8MPa, 1.0MPa, corresponding to different wall thicknesses (such as Φ110mm pipe wall thickness of 3.2mm-4.2mm).

Pipe diameter range: DN20mm to DN400mm, of which DN90mm-DN200mm is the common model.

Execution standard: in accordance with GB/T 13664-2006 “Hard polyvinyl chloride (PVC-U) pipe for Low pressure irrigation”, to ensure pressure resistance and durability.

Advantages of PVC Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation

High rigidity, suitable for ground fixed laying.

The cost is lower than PE tube, and the economy is outstanding.

Good high temperature resistance (working temperature 0℃~45℃).

PE Pipes Vs PVC pipes Comparative Analysis

Indicators	PE pipe	PVC piping
Flexibility	Tall, transportable in coils	Low, need to be connected in sections
Low temperature resistance	No cracking at -20℃	It is easy to embrittlement below 0℃
Resistance to chemical corrosion	Excellent (especially acid and alkali resistance)	Good (not resistant to strong oxidants)
Connection method	Hot melt welding, good sealing	Adhesive or flanged, need regular maintenance
Service life	50 + years	20-30 years
Cost	Higher	Lower

Selection suggestions:

– Terrain complex or low temperature environment: PE pipe is preferred.

– Long distance fixed water delivery: PVC piping is recommended to control costs.

– Drip irrigation/sprinkler irrigation system: Depending on budget and maintenance conditions, PE pipe is suitable for long-term use, PVC pipe is suitable for short-term projects.

PE pipe and PVC pipe have their own advantages in agricultural irrigation, and users need to scientifically select them according to the specific terrain, budget and maintenance conditions. As a professional pipe manufacturer, we provide high-quality PE/PVC irrigation pipes that meet national standards, support customized specifications and services, and help the global agriculture to achieve efficient water conservation goals.

Supplier

Luoyang Datang Energy Tech Co., Ltd. is a leading Chinese manufacturer specializing in high-quality plastic pipes and fittings. Equipped with state-of-the-art automated production lines and supported by a team of 200 professionals, we offer an extensive product line comprising over 150 types of plastic pipes and fittings designed for water supply and  drainage systems, gas transmission, and floor heating systems. Our main products include PVC Pipes and Fittings, PE (HDPE) Pipes and Fittings, PPR Pipes and Fittings, and PEX Floor Heating Pipes. 

Should you have any inquiries regarding PVC Pipe & PE Pipe in Agricultural Irrigation, please do not hesitate to contact us!

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