Our PPb (Polypropylene block copolymer) pipe in imperial sizes is specifically designed for demanding industrial environments where high temperatures, aggressive chemicals and long-term reliability are critical. Manufactured from high-grade polypropylene and produced in accordance with BS 4991 : 1974, this pipe system offers outstanding chemical resistance, excellent mechanical strength and dependable performance across a wide range of process applications.
Polypropylene is a proven thermoplastic polymer widely used in industrial pipework thanks to its excellent resistance to chemicals, abrasion and impact, combined with a favourable strength-to-weight ratio. These properties make PPb pipe an ideal solution for conveying hazardous or corrosive media safely, even at elevated temperatures, without compromising system integrity.
Key Features & Technical Overview
Material: Polypropylene (PPb)
Temperature range: -20°C to 120°C
Pressure ratings: Available from 3 bar up to 15 bar (class dependent)
Standards: Manufactured in accordance with BS 4991 : 1974
Bore finish: Smooth internal bore for low friction losses
Flow performance: Reduced pressure drop and high volume flow rates
Chemical resistance: Excellent resistance to a wide range of acids, alkalis and aggressive process fluids
Durability: High resistance to abrasion and long service life in industrial conditions
The smooth internal surface of polypropylene pipework helps minimise friction losses, improving flow efficiency while reducing the risk of build-up or fouling within the system. This makes PPb pipe particularly well-suited to continuous-flow and high-throughput process lines.
Applications & Industries
Our imperial PPb pipe system is suitable for a broad range of industrial and specialist applications, including:
Acid transportation
Alkali transportation
Chemical processing and chemical dosing systems
Industrial waste and effluent treatment
Pharmaceutical manufacturing
Biotechnology facilities
Hospitals and laboratory installations
Water treatment plants
Brewing and distilling processes
Electronics manufacturing
Food and beverage processing
Nuclear and high-specification industrial environments
Thanks to its ability to handle hot, corrosive liquids without risk, polypropylene pipework is often chosen where traditional metal systems would suffer from corrosion, scaling or premature failure.
PPb Pipe Pressure Classes Explained
To suit different system pressures and duty requirements, our inch PPb pipe is available in five pressure classes, allowing you to select the correct pipe for your application without unnecessary over-specification.
Class A - 3 Bar
Designed for low-pressure systems, Class A PPb pipe is ideal for applications where chemical resistance and temperature performance are required, but system pressures remain modest. Often used for gravity-fed systems, vent lines and low-stress chemical transfer.
Class B - 6 Bar
Class B pipe offers a step up in pressure capability while retaining the same excellent chemical and thermal performance. Suitable for light-to-medium duty process pipework where moderate operating pressures are present.
Class C - 9 Bar
A popular all-round option, Class C PPb pipe balances higher pressure resistance with flexibility across a wide range of industrial applications. Commonly specified for chemical processing lines and industrial fluid handling systems.
Class D - 12 Bar
Class D pipe is designed for higher-pressure process environments, providing increased wall thickness and mechanical strength. Ideal for more demanding installations where pressure safety margins are critical.
Class E - 15 Bar
The highest pressure rating in the range, Class E PPb pipe is intended for high-pressure, high-temperature chemical conveyance. This class is typically used in critical process applications where system reliability and safety are paramount.
Why Choose Polypropylene Pipework?
Polypropylene pipe systems offer a cost-effective alternative to metal pipework while delivering superior performance in chemically aggressive environments.
Benefits include:
No corrosion or rusting
Lightweight for easier handling and installation
Long service life with minimal maintenance
Excellent performance at elevated temperatures
Broad chemical compatibility
For guidance on chemical resistance, pressure selection or suitability for your specific application, our technical team is always happy to help. Selecting the correct pipe class is essential to ensure safe, compliant and long-lasting system performance.
Downloads
Socket Fusion Welding Guide
If you require any further information, our excellent customer service team is here to help so please call us on 01794 835835.