Electrofusion is most commonly used for jointing pipes up to 250mm diameter but there is no technical upper limit. It is nevertheless most commonly used for smaller diameter pipes because the cost of fittings increases with diameter. Electrofusion is equally suited to both coiled and straight pipe lengths, and can be used to joint pipes of different nominal diameters and SDR's using suitable fittings.

Electrofusion is most commonly used in conventional open cut trenching installation, and in repair works. It is also used for adding new services to existing PE mains by means of saddle fittings or tees. It is less well suited to trenchless installation or rehabilitation methods because the fittings protrude on the outside of the pipe.

Electrofusion is a method of joining PE pipes using fittings with integral heating elements.

Sockets fittings are used to join mains and service pipes; and saddle fittings are used to connect services to mains. Electrofusion fittings are available in a range of forms; they may be straight connectors, bends, tees, stop ends, reducers, saddle fittings and repair fittings.

Electrofusion fittings are particularly suited to installations where access is difficult, such as in trenches or around other pipes.

The main difference between conventional heat fusion and electrofusion is the method by which the heat is applied. In conventional heat fusion (butt, saddle and socket) joining, a heating tool is used to heat the pipe and fitting surfaces. The electrofusion joint is heated internally, either by a conductor at the interface of the joint or by a conductive polymer. Heat is created as an electric current is applied to the conductive material in the fitting. PE pipe to pipe connections made using the electrofusion process require the use of electrofusion couplings.

About the electrofusion, please check the standard electrofusion guidance: ASTM F1290-19, Standard Practice for Electrofusion Joining Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings, ASTM International.