Electrofusion Fittings
Electrofusion Saddle shown as a Tapping Tee - with a side port for the fluid to be diverted from the mainline.
Electrofusion is the combination of two words - electro - implying the use of electricity and - fusion - the joining of plastic pipe through the application of sufficient heat to create melting. Electrofusion differs from other heat fusion procedures due to the method by which heat is applied. In typical heat fusion welding, the pipe or fitting surfaces are heated through contact with an electrically heated coated heater plate. With electrofusion, the joining interface is heated internally by a resistive heating element supplied with an electric current which melts the appropriate locations inside the fitting while it is held in contact with the piping. When performing this joining process, the fusion welding times will vary depending on the fitting, the pipe material and the sizes being joined. The use of an electrofusion box which supplies the correct electrical current for the fitting is always required to complete the weld. Both electrofusion saddle fittings and couplers are available. The specifications for HDPE electrofusion fittings - both saddles and couplers - are contained in ASTM F1055. As the scope of the standard discusses these fittings are for use with outside diameter-controlled pipe in order to ensure the dimensions of the interface between the fitting and the pipe are well controlled. Electrofusion saddles and couplers for sizes up to around 12" pipe are commonly available for polyethylene (PE) materials. PPR electrofusion fittings are also available.
An Electrofusion Saddle is Shown and used to connect two pieces of plastic pipe with the same nominal dimensions.
If you're a plastic welder and you have general questions, contact our fusion specialists. We'd be happy to help! If you are having troubles with an electrofusion coupling, give me a call. We are always near.
MAB Generic Electrofusion Procedure
As stated in the document, "The purpose of this technical report is to provide important information available to the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) on particular aspects of polyethylene pipe electrofusion to engineers, users, contractors, code officials, and other interested parties". Bryan Hauger Consulting provides electrofusion training for most North American electrofusion fittings manufacturers based on the MAB procedures for HDPE pipe.
As stated in the document, "The purpose of this technical report is to provide important information available to the Municipal Advisory Board (MAB) on particular aspects of polyethylene pipe electrofusion to engineers, users, contractors, code officials, and other interested parties". Bryan Hauger Consulting provides electrofusion training for most North American electrofusion fittings manufacturers based on the MAB procedures for HDPE pipe.
Looking for more on Electrofusion?
- Contact us if you have any questions about poly pipe or electrofusion pipework, we'd be happy to chat. North America has many quality suppliers for these fittings. Another popular topic is socket fusion vs electrofusion.
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