Borehole Pipes

Borehole Pipes in Kenya

Borehole pipes are essential components of any borehole system in Kenya. They support the borehole structure, protect water quality, and allow efficient water extraction from underground sources. Choosing the right type of pipe ensures durability, safety, and long-term performance.

What Are Borehole Pipes?

Borehole pipes are installed inside a drilled borehole to prevent collapse and to channel water from underground aquifers to the surface. They are designed to withstand pressure, corrosion, and harsh underground conditions. Common uses include:

• Borehole casing and lining

• Supporting submersible pump installation

• Transporting water to the surface

• Preventing contamination from soil and debris

• Stabilizing borehole walls

Common Types of Borehole Pipes in Kenya

1. uPVC Borehole Pipes

The most commonly used pipes for boreholes in Kenya due to durability and corrosion resistance
Best for:

• Domestic boreholes

• Commercial water systems

• Deep and shallow wells
  Advantages:

• Rust and corrosion resistant

• Lightweight and easy to install

• Long lifespan (20–50 years)

2. HDPE Pipes

Flexible and durable pipes mainly used for water transmission
Best for:

• Delivering water from borehole to storage tanks

• High-pressure systems
  Advantages:

• Flexible and impact resistant

• Leak-proof connections

• Long service life

3. Steel Borehole Pipes

Heavy-duty pipes made from galvanized or stainless steel
Best for:

• Deep boreholes

• Industrial applications
  Advantages:

• Extremely strong

• Handles high pressure

• Suitable for extreme depths
  Disadvantages:

• Expensive

• Can corrode over time without protection

4. Slotted (Screen) Pipes

Pipes with perforations that allow water entry while filtering sand
Best for:

• Water intake sections

• Sandy or loose formations
  Advantages:

• Prevents sand entry

• Improves water quality

• Increases borehole efficiency

5. Casing Pipes

Used to line and protect the borehole structure
Best for:

• All boreholes

• Structural reinforcement
  Advantages:

• Prevents borehole collapse

• Protects groundwater

• Supports pump installation

Borehole Pipe Price Guide in Kenya

Prices vary depending on pipe class (thickness), supplier, and location. Installation and transport are not included.

What Affects Borehole Pipe Prices?

• Material type → Steel is more expensive than uPVC and HDPE

• Pipe diameter → Larger diameters cost more

• Wall thickness (class) → Higher pressure rating increases cost

• Borehole depth → Deeper boreholes require more piping

• Slotting → Screen pipes cost more due to perforation

• Brand and standards → Certified pipes cost more but last longer

How to Choose the Right Borehole Pipes

Step 1 — Determine Borehole Depth

• Shallow boreholes use lighter pipes

• Deep boreholes require stronger casing

Step 2 — Analyze Soil Type

• Sandy soils require slotted screen pipes

• Hard rock areas require strong casing

Step 3 — Select Proper Diameter

• Depends on pump size and demand

• Common sizes: 110mm, 140mm, 160mm

Step 4 — Choose Material

• uPVC → Best overall choice

• HDPE → Best for water delivery

• Steel → Best for deep/high-pressure systems

Step 5 — Check Quality Standards

• Use KEBS-approved pipes

• Avoid low-quality materials

Installation Tips

• Use professional borehole drilling services

• Install casing immediately after drilling

• Use gravel packing around screen sections

• Ensure proper sealing to prevent contamination

• Keep pipes aligned using centralizers

Maintenance Tips

• Monitor water clarity for signs of sand entry

• Inspect pipes periodically for damage

• Flush borehole if clogged

• Avoid over-pumping

• Replace worn-out components when needed

Benefits of Borehole Pipes

• Prevent borehole collapse

• Maintain clean and safe water

• Improve pump performance

• Extend system lifespan

• Reduce maintenance costs

Slotted pipes are installed in aquifer zones to allow water into the borehole while preventing sand and debris from entering.

How long do borehole pipes last?

uPVC pipes typically last 20–50 years, while steel pipes may last 10–25 years depending on corrosion protection and usage.

How much do borehole pipes cost in Kenya?

Prices generally range from KSh 800 to over KSh 8,000 per meter depending on material, size, and thickness.

Can HDPE pipes be used inside boreholes?

HDPE pipes are mainly used for water delivery from the borehole to tanks but are not commonly used as primary casing pipes.