RTP Pipe Jointing, Installation & Testing

RTP Engineering Guide

RTP Pipe Jointing, Installation & Testing

A qualified RTP pipe is only part of the system. End connections, handling, bend radius, installation method and pressure testing all affect whether the line performs reliably. Jointing details must be matched to the liner, reinforcement and jacket used by the pipe manufacturer.

RTP pipe end connectors and fittings
Fit is system-specificAn end fitting must match the pipe construction and be qualified with it.
Respect the bend radiusTight bends can ovalise the pipe, damage the liner or move load into the reinforcement.
Control handling loadsLifting, coil unwind and pull-in should avoid point loads and abrasion.
Test before servicePressure and leak testing must follow the project specification and pipe system procedure.

Common jointing approaches

There is no universal RTP connector. The acceptable method depends on the manufacturer’s pipe system, service pressure, temperature, liner material and installation constraints. The options below are general categories, not an instruction to mix fittings and pipe from different systems.

Mechanical end fittings

Crimped, swaged or compression-style fittings may be used where they are qualified for the specific pipe. Installation torque, insertion depth and tooling must follow the system procedure.

Flanged connections

Flanges can provide a demountable interface to equipment or other pipe sections when the complete connection is qualified for the duty.

Fusion methods

Some thermoplastic systems use fusion or electrofusion interfaces. Suitability depends on the liner and pipe system; it should not be assumed for every RTP construction.

Transition connections

Transitions to steel, pumps, valves or headers require a qualified end connection and careful consideration of load transfer and corrosion protection.

Important: never assume that a fitting qualified for one RTP make, liner or reinforcement schedule is interchangeable with another. Mixing components can invalidate the pressure rating and project approval.

Installation considerations

Coil handlingUse suitable lifting equipment and avoid dropping or dragging the coil. The pipe should unwind without twisting or kinking.
Route and bend radiusPlan the route around the qualified minimum bend radius, including temporary bends during installation.
Support and burialAbove-ground supports, burial depth, backfill and external loads must match the project design and jacket protection.
Thermal movementExpansion, contraction and restraint should be reviewed for the operating temperature range and route constraints.
External damageRock, traffic, UV, chemicals and third-party interference may require additional protection or routing measures.
End-load restraintPressure thrust and fitting loads must be considered at transitions, valves, pumps and changes of direction.

Testing and qualification

The test program depends on the product standard, project specification and pipe design. A typical qualification and production test plan may combine material checks, dimensional inspection, pressure testing and destructive tests. The exact acceptance criteria must be agreed before production.

Dimensional inspectionDiameter, ovality, wall thickness and layer construction.
Hydrostatic and leak testsPressure hold and leak checks at the specified test pressure and duration.
End-fitting testsPull-out, pressure and leak performance of the qualified connection.
Burst and cyclingShort-term burst, pressure cycling or other tests required by the design basis.
Bend and handling testsEvaluate the pipe and fittings after representative bending or handling exposure.
Environmental exposureUV, chemical, permeation or ageing tests where the service conditions require them.

BENK scope and limits

BENK supplies RTP production-line equipment and can integrate selected inline inspection and handling equipment. BENK does not automatically supply the end fittings, installation contractor or final product certification. Those elements must be defined with the pipe system owner and the project specification.

For a complete system, the pipe manufacturer, fitting supplier and installer should confirm compatibility and qualification as one scope. Production equipment alone does not certify a joint or an installed pipeline.

Plan jointing and testing with the production line

Tell us the pipe construction, jointing method and test plan. We will help align the production, handling and inspection scope without making unsupported claims.

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