The use of plastic pipes in commercial applications has been steadily growing, driven by their versatility, cost-effectiveness, and durability. As we step into 2024, several key trends are shaping the landscape of plastic pipe usage in commercial markets. PM Engineer Chief Editor Nicole Krawcke sits down with Lance MacNevin, director of engineering, building and construction division of the Plastics Pipe Institute, to discuss top trends influencing the use of plastic pipes in commercial applications.
LM: The good news is we are actually seeing faster adoption of plastic pipes, especially over the last four or five years. So the types of pipes that are being used for the hot and cold water supply, and hydronic systems in commercial buildings are materials like PEX and some PERT, which is polyethylene raised temperature. CPVC has been used for decades in commercial plumbing and now also polypropylene. There are two types of that called PP-R and PP-RCT.