Which Pipe Should I Use with Kiwitech Troughs? MDPE vs LDPE Guide
When setting up a Kiwitech trough and hydrant system, one common question we hear is: what is the Kiwitech trough pipe, and how is it different from MDPE pipe?
The simple answer is that both MDPE and LDPE pipe can work well, but they are best used in different parts of the system. MDPE is usually the better choice for longer water lines around the field, while the Kiwitech 8m LDPE trough pipe is designed for short, flexible connections into Kiwitech troughs and hydrants.
This quick guide explains the difference between MDPE and LDPE pipe, when to use the Kiwitech 8m trough pipe, and what to check before connecting pipe into your Kiwitech water system.
What is the difference between MDPE and LDPE pipe?
MDPE stands for Medium Density Polyethylene. It is stronger and more rigid than LDPE, making it well suited to longer pipe runs or higher-pressure water systems. It is also commonly known as alkathene pipe.
LDPE stands for Low Density Polyethylene. It is softer and more flexible, making it easier to move and handle in the field. However, it is generally better suited to lower-pressure systems or shorter runs.
What pipe is supplied by Kiwitech for their troughs?
The Kiwitech trough pipe we supply is an LDPE pipe sourced directly from Kiwitech. It is 8m long and designed to work with the Kiwitech trough and hydrant system.
When should I use the Kiwitech LDPE trough pipe?
We recommend using the Kiwitech LDPE pipe when connecting into the top quick-release fitting on Kiwitech hydrants.
The smoother, more flexible pipe is designed to work well with the quick-connect collet and fittings in the Kiwitech hydrant, making it easier to plug in, remove and move as part of a portable grazing system.
The Kiwitech LDPE pipe is better suited to the short, flexible connection between the hydrant and the trough, or between troughs in a daisy chain set-up.
Can I use MDPE pipe with Kiwitech troughs?
Yes. Good quality MDPE pipe works very well for longer runs and can connect into the lateral connection of a Kiwitech hydrant, rather than the top quick-connect fitting. It can also connect directly into a trough, provided the pipe is to the correct specification.
We do not recommend using MDPE pipe in the top quick-connect fitting on a Kiwitech hydrant. The coating on MDPE pipe can get marked by the fitting over time, which can make it stick. As MDPE is also more rigid, it can make connecting and disconnecting harder compared with the more flexible Kiwitech LDPE pipe.
What should I check when buying MDPE pipe?
Different suppliers can produce pipe of varying quality and dimensions, so it is important to check that the pipe is definitely 25mm and that the wall thickness is not too thin.
A good quality pipe to the correct specification will work reliably with the Kiwitech fittings.
Which pipe should I use for the primary water lines?
For longer field runs, whether overground or underground, MDPE is the best choice. It is more rigid, durable and better suited to carrying water over distance.
What size pipe should I use?
Kiwitech fittings are generally based around 25mm connections. You will need a 25mm pipe to connect directly into the trough and quick-connect hydrant fittings.
Many farm systems use either 25mm or 32mm+ MDPE for the water pipe that carries water around the fields. The best size depends on your water pressure, flow rate, distance, gradient and the number of animals drinking.
Why do people use 32mm or bigger pipe?
A larger diameter pipe on your water lines can help maintain better flow over longer distances, especially when supplying larger mobs or where water pressure is limited. It can then be reduced down to 25mm pipe at the trough connection.
What should I check before choosing pipe?
The most important thing is the flow rate at the connection point.
Pipe size, distance, pressure, uphill gradients and stock numbers will all affect whether the trough can refill quickly enough to water your mob.
Quick summary
· Use MDPE pipe for longer main water lines.
· Use Kiwitech LDPE trough pipe for short, flexible connections into Kiwitech hydrants and troughs.
· Use 25mm pipe where you are connecting directly into Kiwitech troughs and quick-connect hydrant fittings.
· When setting up your water system, make sure you calculate water demand and flow rates, then choose the best pipe size for the job. Enough flow means a full trough, and a full trough means happy, hydrated livestock.
The Kiwitech 8m Trough Lead is a durable pipe for Kiwitech water troughs. It provides a smooth connection between hydrants and troughs, keeping water moving reliably through your system. Made from LDPE pipe, it offers better resistance to hoof damage and kinking than the medium density options. It also works seamlessly with the quick connect collets in Kiwitech Hydrants, which are designed for use with LDPE.
The Kiwitech Micro Trough is a portable, durable water solution designed for grazing cattle. Easy to move between paddocks, it minimises water waste with a high flow rate, serving up to 50 adult cattle. Its secure ground spike ensures stability, even on slopes. Ideal for rotational grazing systems, this trough is perfect for pasture management.
Suitable for 25mm pipes with operating pressure between 1-5BAR
The Kiwitech Drag Trough is a super tough, portable water trough designed for sheep and cattle. With a 100L capacity, it’s ideal for rotational grazing – simply empty it, then drag or tow it between paddocks. Each trough and water up to 100 cows or 400 ewes, depending on your water flow rate (scroll down for details)
Out of stock until End of June – reserve yours now by clicking here
Kiwitech End Hydrant - Efficiently manage water supply with the Kiwitech End Hydrant for Kiwitech water troughs. This quick-connect, high-flow hydrant and stop-end fitting simplifies grazing systems by allowing flexible water access with minimal infrastructure—perfect for rotational grazing setups
Kiwitech Quick Connect Tee Hydrant - Optimise your grazing system with the Kiwitech Tee Hydrant, designed for Kiwitech water troughs. This high-flow, quick-connect hydrant allows versatile water routing with dual 25mm connections, reducing infrastructure costs and supporting efficient rotational grazing.