Charter Plastics is a recognised name in the global HDPE pipe industry, particularly for applications such as potable water, reclaimed water, sewer systems, geothermal projects, gas distribution and irrigation.

For African buyers operating in construction, utilities, oil & gas, agriculture and industrial infrastructure, understanding what “Charter Plastics” represents—and how to source equivalent HDPE pipe today—is essential for project continuity and compliance.

This article explains who Charter Plastics is, the types of polyethylene pipe associated with the brand, why these products are in demand across Africa, and how Wigmore Trading can support reliable sourcing and importation.

Who Is Charter Plastics?

Charter Plastics was a U.S.-based manufacturer specialising in high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe, typically ranging from small-diameter service lines to large-diameter pipes used in municipal systems. Their products have historically been used for:

• Municipal and rural water distribution

• Sewer and reclaimed water networks

• Natural gas service and distribution

• Geothermal heating and cooling systems

• Irrigation and industrial fluid transport

The brand became well known for producing smooth-wall polyethylene pipe that met strict industry standards and was widely approved by engineers and utilities. For many years, “Charter Plastics” became synonymous with reliable HDPE pipe for long-term infrastructure projects.

Charter Plastics and WL Plastics: What Changed?

In recent years, Charter Plastics underwent a major transition when its business and manufacturing operations were acquired by WL Plastics, a large North American HDPE pipe manufacturer.

What this means for buyers today:

• The Charter Plastics name is still referenced in many engineering drawings and tender documents.

• Production capabilities continue under WL Plastics, using similar technology, processes and standards.

• Equivalent HDPE pipe may now be supplied under different branding, while still meeting the same technical specifications.

For African importers and EPC contractors, this shift means it is often more important to focus on performance standards and specifications rather than the legacy brand name alone.

Why Charter Plastics–Type HDPE Pipe Is in Demand in Africa

HDPE pipe is increasingly used across Africa because it offers clear technical and economic advantages over traditional materials such as steel or concrete.

Key benefits include:

• Excellent corrosion resistance, even in aggressive soils

• High flexibility, ideal for uneven terrain and seismic areas

• Low leakage rates when installed with fusion joints

• Smooth internal surfaces, improving flow efficiency

• Long service life, reducing lifecycle costs

These properties make HDPE pipe ideal for:

• Potable water distribution networks

• Agricultural irrigation systems

• Sewer and drainage infrastructure

• Gas distribution pipelines

• Industrial process water and effluent systems

The types of applications once served by Charter Plastics remain highly relevant to Africa’s growing cities, agricultural zones and industrial corridors.

Key Product Types Associated with Charter Plastics

While branding may vary today, Charter Plastics was historically associated with several core HDPE pipe categories:

1. Potable Water HDPE Pipe

• Manufactured from food-grade HDPE resins

• Designed for safe drinking water transmission

• Available in multiple pressure classes and diameters

2. Reclaimed Water and Sewer Pipe

• Often colour-coded for easy identification

• Used for treated wastewater, sewer force mains and non-potable applications

• Designed for chemical resistance and durability

3. Gas Distribution Pipe

• HDPE and MDPE pipe for gas service and distribution

• Designed for safety, flexibility and long-term performance

4. Irrigation and Industrial Pipe

• Suitable for farms, plantations, mining and industrial facilities

• Lightweight and easy to install over long distances

These pipe types remain essential for infrastructure development across Nigeria and other African markets.

Common Challenges When Sourcing Charter Plastics Pipe in Africa

1. Brand-Based Specifications

Many tenders still specify “Charter Plastics” by name rather than by standard.

Solution:
Translate brand-based requirements into clear technical specifications such as material grade, pressure rating, SDR and compliance standards. Wigmore Trading can help interpret and match these requirements with available suppliers.

2. Quality and Standards Verification

Not all HDPE pipe available in the market meets international performance standards.

Solution:
Work with trusted manufacturers and insist on full technical documentation, quality assurance processes and test certificates. Wigmore Trading supports supplier verification to reduce procurement risk.

3. Import and Customs Complexity

HDPE pipe is bulky and subject to detailed import procedures in Nigeria and other African countries.

Solution:
Partner with an experienced import-export consultancy. Wigmore Trading assists with licensing, customs clearance, shipping coordination and inland delivery to ensure smooth project execution.

How Wigmore Trading Can Help

Wigmore Trading is a Nigerian-based import-export consultancy and commodity trading company supporting businesses across Africa.

For Charter Plastics–type HDPE pipe, Wigmore Trading offers:

Product Sourcing Support

• Access to global HDPE pipe manufacturers

• Identification of equivalent products that meet Charter Plastics specifications

• Cost and lead-time optimisation

Wigmore Trading can help.

Technical Specification Matching

• Review of engineering and tender requirements

• Recommendation of compliant HDPE pipe alternatives

• Documentation support for approvals and inspections

Import, Licensing and Logistics

• Import-export licensing support in Nigeria

• Customs clearance coordination

• Shipping, port handling and last-mile delivery

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing.

Support for Diaspora and Regional Buyers

If you manage African projects from abroad, Wigmore Trading can act as your local sourcing and logistics partner—helping bridge the gap between international suppliers and African project sites.

Practical Tips for Buyers

• Specify HDPE pipe by standard and performance, not just brand name

• Confirm material grade, pressure rating and compliance requirements

• Plan logistics early due to pipe size and shipping constraints

• Use an experienced trade partner to reduce delays and compliance risks

Wigmore Trading can support each stage of the procurement process.

Ready to Source HDPE Pipe?

If your project references Charter Plastics or you need reliable HDPE pipe for water, gas, sewer or irrigation systems, Wigmore Trading can help you source compliant products and manage importation efficiently.

Contact Wigmore Trading today to streamline your sourcing.