Infrared fusion, conventional butt fusion and electrofusion provide consistent and repeatable fusion joints for HDPE piping.

A conventional butt fusion machine with a CNC fusion processor creates consistent and repeatable weld joints.


Based on computer numerically controlled (CNC) fusion processes, infrared (IR) fusion, conventional butt fusion and electrofusion provide consistent and repeatable fusion joints for HDPE piping.

In infrared fusion joining, the fusion areas of the components are heated without contacting the heater element, joined by pressure and verified by measuring material overlap distance.1

Conventional butt fusion also uses a heater element; however, the material is heated by direct contact with the element, and a specific and consistent computer controlled pressure is applied throughout the entire fusion process.

With electrofusion, the heating element is embedded in socket-style fittings and is heated through electrical resistance. By creating interference between spigot and socket, the heating of HDPE and the resulting material expansion work to create a homogenous bond between the socket and the spigot.

Polyethylene (PE) electrofusion branch saddle valves offer a cost-effective solution for expansion of both new and existing PE process cooling installations.

When infrared, conventional butt or electrofusion methods of joining pipe to fittings are done properly, system failure seldom is attributed to the weld joint and, in rare cases, occurs within the pipe or the fittings themselves. Unlike manual fusion equipment, the use of true CNC-style fusion equipment removes the operator from the decision process. Instead, the four key parameters for proper fusion - surface preparation, heating temperature and duration, pressure and cooling time - are electronically controlled. Advanced fusion welding technologies such as infrared provide the additional safety and security needed for critical process cooling applications.



1. Georg Fischer Inc., IR Plus Infrared Butt Fusion Technology, Fi5266/4a (3.04).

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