Natural Gas Pipeline Network
HDPE butt fusion fittings and pipes for medium-pressure gas distribution in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Project Overview
Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of the fastest-growing megacities in the world, with a population exceeding 22 million. The city’s natural gas distribution network, essential for residential cooking, commercial heating, and industrial operations, was struggling to keep pace with rapid urban expansion. A major gas utility company initiated a large-scale network extension project to bring reliable natural gas supply to newly developed residential areas and industrial zones on the city’s periphery.
The project required the installation of approximately 30 kilometers of medium-pressure gas distribution pipelines, operating at up to 4 bar pressure, serving an estimated 50,000 new households and 200 commercial and industrial customers. Safety and long-term reliability were the highest priorities, given the densely populated urban environment.
Challenge
The pipeline network needed to comply with stringent international safety standards for gas distribution (ISO 4437 and ASME B31.8). The joints had to be effectively leak-free, as even minor gas leaks in congested urban areas pose serious safety risks. The pipeline route crossed numerous roads, drainage canals, and underground utility corridors, requiring careful planning and specialized installation techniques.
The tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity, as well as the potential for ground movement during the monsoon season, demanded a pipe material with excellent environmental stress crack resistance and flexibility. The client also required full traceability documentation for every section of pipe used.
Solution
WorldLink supplied a complete HDPE gas distribution system comprising SDR 11 PE100 pipes (DN 110mm to DN 250mm) with matching butt fusion fittings. The PE100 grade material was selected for its high hydrostatic strength, excellent rapid crack propagation resistance, and proven 50+ year design life in gas distribution applications.
Butt fusion welding was performed by certified operators using fully automated fusion machines with data logging, ensuring every joint met ISO 12176-2 quality standards. Directional drilling was employed for road and canal crossings, with HDPE’s flexibility allowing long pulls without intermediate joints.
Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | HDPE Butt Fusion Fittings & Pipes |
| Pipe Size | DN 110mm – DN 250mm |
| Grade | PE100 |
| SDR Rating | SDR 11 |
| Total Length | 30 km |
| Application | Medium-pressure gas distribution |
| Location | Dhaka, Bangladesh |
| Year | 2024 |
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