To improve network stability in its own gas network, the network operator SWS Netze GmbH in Stralsund is investing in a new high-pressure connection pipeline. This pipeline connects the Stralsund West and East transfer stations and serves the purpose of ensuring a more balanced utilization between both stations in the future. The contracted construction company Beermann is using egeplast HexelOne® SLM pipes for the approximately 6 km long high-pressure connection pipeline, which will be laid mostly trenchlessly using the HDD method.
Plastic replaces steel pipe
Construction began in 2022 (1st section). The construction company started the 2nd section on September 6, 2023, and the challenging project is expected to be completed in Q4/2023. The planning and implementation of the construction measure were particularly complex because the client had no previous experience with plastic pipe systems, as steel had always been used in this segment. egeplast is the only manufacturer to offer a DVGW-certified high-pressure gas pipe system made of polyethylene.
It is worth mentioning that all work can only take place after agricultural areas have been harvested. The connections in the intermediate construction pits were also complex, as the loose pipe ends faced each other here. In this case, the connection was easily made with press connectors from the egeplast HexelOne® system and the corresponding hydraulic special pressing tool.
The construction company lays the pipes almost entirely using the trenchless HDD drilling method, which ensures rapid installation. The environmentally friendly and economical aspect is also not overlooked, as large coil delivery lengths and thus relatively few pipe connections ensure quick progress. At the same time, the contracted construction company, Beermann Bohrtechnik, achieves the greatest possible pipe pulling lengths through the use of state-of-the-art technology and extensive expertise.
Smooth Project Execution
The desired compensation for the problematic deviations regarding the capacity utilization of the existing transfer stations has been achieved. Another major advantage: Thanks to the new connection pipeline, larger reconstruction and maintenance work at the transfer stations can be planned by the network operator in the future without supply interruptions. “The newly created high-pressure connection pipeline allows us to use our gas network much more effectively and fully fulfills its planned purpose,” says Olaf Lemke, responsible Project Manager at SWS Netze GmbH.
egeplast
HexelOne® SLM
The egeplast HexelOne® SLM pipe is a self-reinforced high-pressure pipe, a monocomposite made solely from polyethylene.
This reinforcement enables new areas of application in the “raised pressure” range, i.e., operating pressures above the applications previously covered by PE pipes.
The reason: It exhibits twice the strength compared to previous PE pipes.
Learn moreProject Description
Construction of a new high-pressure gas supply pipeline to connect two transfer stations
Challenges
All work can only be carried out after agricultural areas have been harvested, connection of pipe strings in the intermediate construction pits
Solution
Press connectors (HexelPress®), large delivery lengths in coils, thus connection work kept “short”
Installation
Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD)
Pipe System
HexelOne® SLM DA 160 (approx. 6,000 m, practical delivery form as coils); connection of coils using “combination welding” compliant with DVS 2207; connection of individual pipe strings pulled in by HDD method using HexelPress® connectors (stainless steel V4A)
Project Participants
Client: SWS Energie GmbH, Stralsund
Contracted construction company: Fa. Beermann, NDL Demmin, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Involved civil engineering specialist dealer: Gebr. Hansen, Velgast, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern
Accompanied by TÜV Nord
