The experts in pipe inspection
The SKZ Plastics Center has established itself as a leading provider of testing services for pipe systems and pipe connectors, offering comprehensive support worldwide in a wide range of applications for pipe systems such as drinking water, underfloor heating, waste water and geothermal energy. With a broad spectrum of testing methods, SKZ guarantees the highest quality standards and safety for manufacturing companies.
Test area for the internal pipe pressure test (creep test) with water basins at different temperatures. (Photo: Luca Hoffmannbeck, SKZ)
SKZ offers numerous test procedures
These include, among others, the burst pressure test, which is used to test and ensure the compressive strength of pipes so that they can withstand the required loads. SKZ can test all common pipe dimensions up to a nominal diameter of 900 mm. The internal pressure creep test examines the long-term resistance of the pipes under constant internal pressure at a wide range of temperatures in order to test the material properties and the durability of the plastics used. A total of over 800 pressure stations are available for this test.
SKZ is the first testing laboratory in Germany to be accredited by the DAkkS
Specialized tests are offered for pipes made of PE100 RC, including the Crack Round Bar Test according to ISO 18489, which tests the long-term behavior against crack formation. For this test, SKZ has been accredited by DAkkS as the first testing laboratory in Germany for several months. Furthermore, the strain hardening test (SH) and the accelerated full notch creep test (aFNCT) are carried out on PE 100 RC materials to determine the accelerated characterization of slow crack growth.
SKZ cooperates with the German Federal Environment Agency
An outstanding feature of the pipe testing area is the world's largest temperature change system for large pipes. This innovative system makes it possible to realistically simulate and evaluate the effects of temperature changes on pipe systems. Strict hygiene requirements must be met for pipes and materials used in drinking water applications. These requirements for materials that come into contact with drinking water are also tested by the group. In this regard, the SKZ works together with the German Federal Environment Agency (UBA) with regard to the corresponding test programs and material-specific positive lists.
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