For effective heating and energy savings, selecting the appropriate heating pipes for your house is essential. It can be difficult to decide which kind of option is best for you when there are so many on the market. To assist you in making an informed choice, we will examine several kinds of heating pipes and go over their benefits and drawbacks in this post.
Because they are dependable and long-lasting, copper pipes are a common option for heating systems. Because of their corrosion resistance, they can be used for steam and hot water heating. Moreover, copper pipes have outstanding thermal conductivity, which enables effective heat transfer throughout your house. Copper pipes, however, may cost more than alternative materials and may need to be installed by a professional.
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes are an additional choice to take into account; these pipes have become more and more popular recently. PEX pipes are a great option for installing in difficult-to-reach areas or retrofitting existing heating systems because they are flexible and simple to install. Additionally, they are impervious to corrosion and freeze damage, which lowers the possibility of leaks and expensive repairs. PEX pipes are also generally less expensive than copper pipes, which makes them a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
Stainless steel heating pipes are an excellent investment for those seeking an environmentally friendly solution. Stainless steel is an enduring material for heating systems because of its extreme durability and resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel pipes are also recyclable, which makes them a sustainable choice for homeowners who care about the environment. Long-term savings can be achieved with stainless steel pipes due to their durability and energy efficiency, even though their initial cost may be higher.
It is crucial to take into account aspects like cost, energy efficiency, durability, and ease of installation when selecting heating pipes for your house. You can choose the pipe type that best fits your requirements and budget by weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each type. A comfortable and effective home heating system depends on the purchase of high-quality heating pipes, regardless of the material you choose—copper, PEX, stainless steel, or another.
Material | Advantages |
Copper | Durable, resists corrosion, good heat conduction |
PEX | Flexible, easy to install, resistant to chemicals and corrosion |
CPVC | Cost-effective, lightweight, easy to install |
Pipe selection criteria for heating system
You need to know exactly what to look for when buying pipes in order to make the best decision. This will have a significant impact on how well the house heats.
Thus, when selecting heating pipes, consider the following queries:
- Internal diameter of pipes, determining their throughput.
- The power of the heating boiler and the energy type used, the size of the heated rooms.
- Type of heating system (open or closed). The characteristics of the chosen pipes also depend on this factor.
- The method of laying the contours. That is, whether the usual heating system will be mounted, or is it planned to hide the pipes in the floor or walls. And this, by the way, applies not only to “warm floor” systems. Many owners prefer hidden wiring even when using conventional radiators and convectors.
For instance, pipes are chosen for the "warm floor" system, which allows bends under a very small radius and is intended for a specific coolant temperature.
- What method of circulation will be used in the heating system – natural or forced. This is directly reflected in the size of the cross -section of the pipe highways.
- The maximum heating temperature of the coolant is taken into account, the pressure created in the heating system. If in the autonomous system of a private house or apartment the coolant pressure is stable and the temperature is usually not too high, then in the circuit connected to the central heating, the hydraulic boards and pressure of the pressure are not rare, heating may be much larger. Therefore, not all types of pipes are equally good for both autonomous and central heating.
- Methods of installation of pipes. This is especially important if the arrangement of the circuit is planned to be carried out independently, since for connecting some types you need to have special equipment and the corresponding skills in working with it.
In the event that polypropylene pipe installation is planned, you will need to obtain the necessary equipment and become proficient in using it.
The best material to use for the pipes’ construction can be chosen once all questions have been answered in relation to the aforementioned conditions of choice.
Pipe manufacturing materials for heating systems
The consumer has access to a variety of pipes that are appropriate for setting up heating systems in the contemporary construction market. On the other hand, the manufacturer does not always offer unbiased details regarding the technical specs of his goods. It is uncommon to discuss how pipes can respond to various emergency scenarios. Therefore, it’s important to determine which product types are better suited for a given project before making a purchase.
Thus, manufacturers stock pipes made of the following materials in specialty stores:
- Metal – it can be steel, stainless steel or copper.
- Polymers – PP (polypropylene) and PEX and PERT (stitched polyethylene).
- Metalloplast is a combined version of products for the manufacture of which aluminum and plastic are used.
You must consider their primary characteristics when selecting pipes for the heating system to avoid making a mistake. Conclusions regarding their suitability for the anticipated operating conditions can then be made more easily.
Metal pipes
Pipe from steel
Heating contours have long been arranged using steel pipes. Furthermore, even with the advent of more contemporary samples, their application is still appropriate. This is because steel products are designed to last for decades, have good technical qualities, and are tested over time.
Steel pipes are classified according to the type of material and how it is processed. Every one of them possesses unique qualities and attributes.
Therefore, the following product varieties are available for purchase:
- Steel pipes made of black steel, which used to be found in every multi -storey building.
- Galvanized products.
- Stainless steel pipes.
Steel pipes can be made in various forms, including whole and welded. The steel sheet used to create the welded version has a seam that is welded all the way around. A complete pipe has no connecting seams and is manufactured using specialized machinery. A unique technology is used to create stainless steel pipes with corrugations.
The VGP’s steel pipes are still in demand for heating systems, despite their current drawbacks and fierce competition.
Products made of steel tubes have the following advantages:
- High thermal conductivity of the material that makes the operation of the heating system more efficient. Steel quickly warms up from the coolant circulating inside, giving heat to the rooms. Thus, pipes become an additional heat source.
- Excellent strength characteristics make products resistant to pressure drops, to hydraulic boards possible in central heating systems.
- The gas -resistance of steel makes the operation of the heating circuit the most effective.
- The affordable cost of many steel products allows you to equip the heating system with a minimum repair budget. However, the cost is affordable for not all types of metal pipes.
Among steel pipeline’s drawbacks are the following traits that define it:
- Unstability to corrosion. Ordinary black steel is easily amenable to oxidative processes that are inevitable in the central heating system. Low -quality coolant is an aggressive environment and negatively affects the internal surfaces of the pipeline. Galvanized products are more resistant to such influence, as they have a protective coating. Therefore, their durability is 15 ÷ 20 years more compared to ordinary steel. Stainless steel pipes, by definition, are not subject to corrosion.
- The significant weight of the products complicates the transportation and installation of the circuit.
- Steel pipes are flexible, but to give them the right configuration, a special carboxer machine is required. And if it is not, then if necessary, even not much to change the direction of the contour, you have to use special bounces. Increasing the joint and welded joints reduces the reliability of the heating circuit. Only stainless corrugated pipes are sufficiently flexible for self -giveing uniforms without special equipment.
Thus, the owner also made the decision to generally forgo the radiator in favor of constructing a serpenter-exchanger out of flexible stainless corrugated pipes.
- Electric conductivity of steel becomes a negative factor for the contour connected to such a device as an electric boiler for heating.
Both threaded and welded pipe joints in the steel heating circuit are susceptible to hydraulic board damage. Since hydraulic boards are not a risk in autonomous heating, leaks can be completely ruled out as long as installation is done correctly.
Black steel pipe
Up until recently, the only materials used to gather heating contours in both private homes and tall buildings were pipes composed of black steel. The most widely used pipes were those with the VGP mark and were made by welding. Their features and manner of production were in line with the standards set by GOST 3262-75.
Black steel pipe has been installed and is still in use in numerous residential and commercial buildings that date back to the Soviet era.
The primary disadvantage of these kinds of pipes is that they are prone to corrosion. The deposits are created when irregularities caused by oxidation on the inside walls of the products delay the particles of the same oxides that are present in the coolant. As a result of gradually blocked coolant circulation caused by overgrown areas, heating efficiency decreases. Furthermore, corrosion deposits lessen the pipes’ ability to conduct heat. Concurrently, the raid’s thickness keeps growing, which has the potential to completely clog the passage.
Furthermore, corrosion has the ability to thin the pipes’ "healthy" steel walls. They gradually lose their power, which is full of innovations.
Boundaries with accumulated oxides are especially prone to blockages at bounces, bends, drives, tees, etc.P.
To some extent, the only way to prevent such phenomena in the autonomous heating system is to periodically wash the pipes and fill the circuit with high-quality coolant. It is important to keep in mind that, even during the summer, the system should always be filled with coolant. This shields the walls from needless oxygen exposure, which invariably initiates the initiation of corrosion processes.
The depressurization of these pipes is another issue. It usually manifests itself in the central heating system contours during pre-heating verification tests. Steel pipelines are weakest at connecting units, which is also where leaks mostly happen. Thus, if a high-rise building’s circuit is just that, it is imperative to regularly audit areas that are susceptible to attack.
One term for the conditional drawback of steel pipes is the requirement for recurring staining. Furthermore, this procedure is done to guard against external corrosion in addition to improving the contour’s appearance.
Typically, standard VGP steel pipes have a 15-year warranty installed. Experience suggests that they could last for several decades if installed correctly and regularly maintained.
Galvanized pipe
The same black steel is used to make galled products, but both the inside and outside of them have a zinc coating. By preventing steel from oxidizing, galing greatly prolongs the pipeline’s lifespan. It should be noted that this layer merely strengthens the pipes’ resistance to the environment’s harsh effects, not completely shielding them from it.
The price of galvanized pipes is much higher than that of regular steel VGP because of their increased reliability.
Three methods exist for producing pipeline gapping: electrogal, hot, and thermal metallurgical processes.
- The electrogalvanic method of applying the protective layer consists in conducting an electrolysis process. Principle – settlement of zinc ions on the surface of steel products under the influence of a permitted DC electric current. When using this method, the thickness of the zinc layer can be no more than 30 microns. In this case, the characteristics of the galvanizing may vary among themselves, depending on the substances used in this process. Adhesion between steel and zinc is not high enough, so such protection is enough for 5 ÷ 7 years. After that, the inner surfaces of the pipes are exposed and turn into products made of ordinary steel.
Furthermore, because this kind of zinc coating is somewhat toxic, such pipes are not put in residential buildings or even in water supply systems for homes.
- Galing is hotly immersed in a zinc alloy, warmed up to 450 degrees, for a period of 10 minutes. Upon completion of the process, the galvanizing layer is about 200 μm. As a result of processing this method, the most reliable option for galvanized products is obtained, as it has high resistance to corrosion.
- The thermalmodyffuse processing method is used for products that are imposed on increased requirements for reliability. The process is carried out using special technology, at a temperature of 470 degrees. A protective layer is applied on the surface of the pipes, which can have a different thickness, which depends on the time of processing of products. The galvanized layer in this case is characterized by increased strength and hardness. This type of product may well be connected in a welded way – the coating during welding does not evaporate
Generally speaking, both the welded and threaded (coupl) methods are used to create the compounds of galvanized pipes. Using connecting parts with an additional layer of galvanization is advised. However, it should be kept in mind that corrosion resistance decreases in areas close to welded joints.
High temperatures and hydrous loads are well-suited for galvanized pipes. As such, it could be applied to the configuration of the central heating system’s contour.
Among the drawbacks, the following stand out:
- Zinc is unsafe for human health. True, in the heating system this is not so significant – do not drink water from there.
- As already mentioned, in most pipes with galvanizing, the protective layer burns out during welded operations.
- The high cost of products exceeding the price of black steel pipes, metal -plastic and polymer.
Stainless steel pipe
Among all steel types, stainless steel pipes offer the best performance qualities. It’s not the corrosion exposure or the notable durability that matters. An appropriately installed stainless steel circuit can last for an infinitely long period of time with the right maintenance and precautions.
Because stainless pipes come in a variety of diameters, you can select one that will work well for a particular contour.
Products made of stainless steel are welded and seamless. It should be noted that the pipes’ weak point is the connecting seam. As such, mounting them in the central heating circuit is not recommended.
Seamless pipes work well with any heating system because they are incredibly dependable and long-lasting. It is true that a seamless option comes at a much higher cost.
Similar to regular steel pipes, stainless products require extra parts to be installed in a welded or threaded manner.
The following characteristics can be used to describe the benefits of stainless steel pipes:
- The inertness to the aggressive environment of the coolant makes the pipes invulnerable to corrosion processes.
- High stability of stainless contour to external mechanical influences, pressure drops and high temperatures.
Stainless steel contours don’t need to be stained on a regular basis and look pretty good.
Even though stainless steel pipes have many benefits, heating contours in homes and apartments are rarely organized using them. These are due to two factors:
- High cost of products.
- The complexity of steel processing of this type.
Because of their extreme flexibility, corrugated pipes can be twisted into spirals with very little bending radius.
As a result, corrugated pipes—another popular alternative to stainless steel pipes—rose to the market. They have additional benefits in addition to the aforementioned "pluses":
Combining prepared pipe segments is simple and requires the use of a well-designed system of dependable special fittings.
- The simplicity of the installation work of corrugated pipes is due to a specially designed fitting system for them. To assemble the circuit, only a divorce key and a device for cutting pipes will be required.
- This version of products is designed for a temperature of more than 100 degrees. Therefore, they are often used in systems where increased heat resistance of components of the circuit is necessary.
- The flexibility of corrugated pipes allows you to use them for installation in hard -to -reach places. Such products hold the specified spatial configuration of the bend very well, while completely maintaining their tightness. And the bending radius is comparable to the diameter of the pipe.
- Another big “plus” from flexibility is a very significant savings on the bounces. Let it not seem ridiculous – the number of discharge even in the average in size system reaches several tens. But each such knot also takes time for installation ..
Cons of corrugated stainless steel pipes:
- They are less resistant to pressure drops than their welded or seamless "brothers". Therefore, they are best mounted in an autonomous heating system.
- Low resistance to external mechanical influences – an inaccurate movement of the pipe openly, is easy to bend the pipe. In this regard, it is better not to install them in children"s rooms.
- When exposed to the corrugated surface of some types of concentrated alkalis or pipe acids, can be damaged, and the circuit will lose its tightness. True, with such aggressive liquids in household conditions, it is unlikely that you will have to meet.
Copper pipes for heating
Given that copper pipes virtually always meet the necessary specifications, they are an excellent choice for installing an autonomous heating system.
While copper pipes are nearly ideal, they are not without shortcomings.
The market receives deliveries of both flowed and unheated copper pipes.
- The unhealthy version is resistant to high pressure reaching up to 400 MPa – the material is very durable. However, it is this quality that deprives the pipe of flexibility.
- To achieve the required flexibility, copper pipes heat up to high temperatures, and then cool in a given mode. Thanks to this process, the qualities of the material change – it becomes more plastic. Pipes acquire flexibility, but the strength of their walls to baric loads is reduced – the maximum pressure is estimated at 22 MPa. However, this parameter is more than enough for an autonomous system. But such products completely “painlessly” tolerate sharp temperature surges.
Soldering is a common method used to join copper pipes. It involves using a gas burner and specialized solder. It can be challenging to carry out dependable rations without experience.
There are various methods used to connect the individual copper pipe segments into a single system:
- Capillary soldering. Reliable connecting nodes are obtained, but good skills in performing such operations, a special burner, flux and solder are required. With a “debut” self -performance, there is a great probability of many errors.
Press-Klots for fitting-based copper pipe connections.
- Compression fittings. To connect this method, special press roles will be required, which includes nozzles of different sizes. Special fittings and other shaped parts are used.
Copper pipe threaded connections that collapse.
- Threaded connection of copper pipes with collapsing. A fairly affordable installation method, but, however, it can only be used if the connecting nodes are located in open form. It is not recommended to use it if the “warm floor” system is equipped from the pipes or it is planned to hide them in the wall. Unfortunately, this installation method does not guarantee 100% of the reliability of the connection.
It is clear that copper pipes offer many benefits, but they also have drawbacks.
The following characteristics of this material are among its positive attributes:
- Copper has a fairly high density, which is which there is the possibility of the production of thin -walled pipes with a small weight. This quality greatly facilitates the installation process.
- Excellent thermal conductivity of copper contributes to the rapid heating of the heating circuit.
- High temperatures resistance. Copper can withstand short -term heating to 500 and a constant temperature of the coolant of 115 degrees. At the same time – without losing his strength characteristics.
- In the copper heating circuit, there is practically no resistance to the circulating coolant, since the inner surfaces of the pipes have almost perfect smoothness.
- The absence of roughnesses on the internal walls significantly reduces the risk of the formation of the growths of scale or dirt and blockages.
- The plasticity of the material allows you to make the bends necessary in separate areas, and simplifies installation work.
Copper pipe screed with Warm Paul system.
- The plasticity of copper of high -quality copper pipes gives another advantage – they are resistant to temperature extremes. For example, even a frozen contour with subsequent defrosting does not lose its tightness.
- Copper is gas -resistant, therefore it protects the interior of the pipeline from the penetration of oxygen well. That is, the internal corrosion stability of the contour increases.
- Copper is characterized by a very small coefficient of linear heat expansion.
- Copper is not toxic and does not emit into the environment harmful fumes for humans. Therefore, this metal is attributed to environmentally friendly materials.
Copper does have certain drawbacks, though, in spite of its many "pluses":
- Copper incompatibility with aluminum – their contact leads to the formation of a large number of gases in the system, since an electrochemical reaction occurs between them. Therefore, a system equipped from copper pipes must necessarily have valves for giving gas clusters. To avoid the occurrence of such reactions, it is necessary to choose additional parts (adapters and fittings) made only from copper or brass. And try not to use aluminum radiators in such a system.
- For a system of copper pipes, a well -cleaned coolant is required, in which there are no solid fractions. This is due to the fact that copper is relatively soft metal, so hard particles can damage the inner surfaces. That is, there must be a filter of mechanical cleaning without fail. The good owner, by the way, will stand in any system, regardless of pipes material.
- Another danger to the copper pipeline of a closed heating system is the so -called vortex currents that can disrupt the tightness of the circuit.
- Copper conducts electricity well, so special requirements are presented to the grounding of such a circuit.
- Installation work on the assembly of a copper circuit – very complex. They should be performed by a specialist using special equipment. Without work experience, you can easily ruin expensive material.
- The plasticity of copper plays the minus – the body of the heating pipe is easy to damage, up to a through hole, non -aligned mechanical shock load. That is, it is necessary to provide measures to protect copper pipelines from such an impact.
- A significant drawback that repels so many is the high cost of both the pipes themselves and the additional elements, as well as the services of the master who will take up the installation of the contour.
It is frequently advised to limit the use of copper pipes to boiler room wiring due to their distinctive characteristics. It is best to use copper-compatible pipes for the main contour that passes through residential buildings.
It is essential that the experts create a project before purchasing this pricey material, based on which the contour’s sections or all of its components will be calculated.
Just one more thing. You should be able to confirm the quality of the pipes you choose when selecting this material. Furthermore, it is imperative to verify every detail independently. The truth is that the entire system may fail in a year or two if one of the premature elements is composed of low-quality metal.
Here is some information about bimetallic heating radiators that might be of interest to you.
Polymer pipes
Polypropylene pipes in the heating system
These days, a lot of masters actively promote polypropylene pipes to customers and favor using them for their work. Even though it has drawbacks, this material does have a lot of advantages.
When chosen properly, polypropylene pipes work well with the heating system.
Pipes made of polypropylene (PPR) come in various varieties. As a result, you must be able to select the precise option that will be able to tolerate the high temperatures and baric loads that the heating system experiences.
The following considerations should be made when selecting a PPR tube:
- Products should be designed for the heating temperature of the coolant to at least 90 ÷ 95 degrees.
- If the heating circuit is connected to the central heating system, then the polypropylene pipe should be resistant to very significant pressure surges.
- The smoothness of the inner walls. This quality will help reduce the risk of formation on the surfaces of the plaque that reduces the intensity of the coolant circulation, as well as the heat transfer of the material.
- For pipes for hot heat supply and heating, thermal expansion of the material should be minimal. In low -quality products, which is quite a lot on the market, this parameter is usually higher than average – when heated, such contours begin to sag or bend down.
Three types of polypropylene pipes are available for purchase: PP-H, PP-V, and PPRC (also known as PPR or PP-3), from which products are chosen for the heating system.
- Pp-H-pipes designed for cold water supply. They are unstable to high temperatures and can sag on the brackets from the effects of hot water. Not everything is in order with them and with resistance to pressure surges. For heating systems they are not even considered.
- PP-V-products can be used for hot water supply, but the temperature of the coolant should not exceed 50 degrees. That is, to be honest, it makes sense to abandon them. Such low temperatures are characteristic mainly for the “warm floor” systems, and the use of polypropylene pipes in such systems is usually not practiced.
The product’s surface has labels that explain its purpose. "Glass Fiber," or GF, stands for fiberglass reinforcement. what is required for heating.
- PPRC – pipes marked with these letters, consist of three layers, the middle of which is a reinforcing. Aluminum or fiberglass can act as reinforcing material. This version of the pipes is designed for hot heat supply and can be used in the system with a coolant, the temperature of which exceeds 50 degrees. The reinforcing layer significantly reduces the linear expansion of the material and gives the pipes the required margin of safety.
Products with a reinforcing layer and the markings PPR-GF-PPR and PPR-FR-PPR are more likely to be appropriate for use in a heating system. The labeling is surface-mounted and runs the full length of the pipe. Therefore, these designations should be the first thing to look for when purchasing materials for the heating system’s arrangement.
By the way, reinforcement that is red in color does not necessarily indicate that it is heat-resistant. More accurately, reinforcement does not have a determining value; it can be a different color. In the same way as the pipes’ own color.
Polypropylene pipe welding is a simple and fast independent development process. The only thing that matters is having a high-quality tool available.
A specialized diffuse welding device is used to join polypropylene pipes with other components. Due to the simultaneous heating and rapid joining of the interconnected elements, material interpenetration occurs, making it nearly impossible to identify the cut’s boundary. A reliable, sealed joint forms after cooling.
Any owner should become proficient in this type of polypropylene pipe welding technology. After a few practice welds "for warm-up" on scraping, you can move on to the actual installation. All that matters is having a decent toolkit, but these days, renting something is simple.
The following are some advantages of using polypropylene products:
- The elasticity of the material helps to maintain the tightness of the system even when it freezes and thawed.
- Polypropylene inerten to corrosion processes. Therefore, when installing such pipes in the autonomous system, the coolant will always be clean. When connecting to the central heating system, the pipes will not be terrible an aggressive environment of low -quality coolant.
- High resistance to external mechanical influences, since, in addition to reinforcement, the pipes have fairly thick walls.
- Already mentioned above, quite simple and quick installation.
Manufacturers of pipes provide them with a vast array of extra information for every situation.
- A large assortment of accessories that allow you to create systems of any complexity and combine polypropylene products with pipes from other materials.
- The material is very light, which simplifies both transportation and installation work.
- Absolute tightness of the heating circuit during high -quality assembly.
- Environmental cleanliness of the material – polypropylene pipes are suitable for water pipelines with drinking water, but for heating – all the more.
- A system collected from polypropylene does not require periodic external coloring.
- This material does not conduct electricity, which makes the contour absolutely safe from these positions.
- Thanks to the thick walls, as well as the structure of the material, a very effective sound absorption is observed – the noise of the circulating coolant will not be heard in the rooms.
- Affordable cost of both the pipes themselves and accessories. Perhaps, according to this parameter, the polypropylene contour will be the most profitable.
The following characteristics of polypropylene pipes are regarded as drawbacks:
- Lack of flexibility of products. If necessary, make a turn of the circuit, it is necessary to weld adapters or taps. Moreover, even with very slight changes in the direction.
- The pipes that are not equipped with a reinforcing layer are unstable both to elevated temperatures and to the pressure drops. But there is nothing to be considered for heating systems.
- In case of damage to any of the circuit sections, it will have to be completely replaced, since welded joints are not subject to repair. The damaged area is cut out, and a whole new. This, by the way, should be taken into account during installation – before a vulnerable node (for example, a crane, valve, fitting) and after it a small straight area is usually left, which allows you to cut and subsequent welding.
Examples of poorly welded polypropylene pipe joints and the potential repercussions of such mistakes
- If the welding of the contour parts is carried out poorly, then the joints can become an obstacle to normal circulation of the coolant, as well as the reason for the fragility of the connection itself. The quality of the joint is visually evaluated, but at the first launch or during the operation of the system, poor welding will immediately prove itself.
For instance, molten plastic can narrow or even completely block the passage if the pipe is overheated during the joining process. The joint may leak right away after launch or if a hydraulic boom happens if the pipes are not heated to the necessary temperature or if their connection is not made to the recommended depth.
Therefore, if you decide to tackle this type of installation for the first time, it is best to forgo regretting a small sum in order to buy a few extra, inexpensive couplings and a few extra meters of pipe. Just to "fill your hand," perform five to ten trial weld joints prior to the main work. This usually suffices to give confidence and avoid careless mistakes when applying the contour.
Further information regarding polypropylene pipes Note that in this publication, we only touch on the most important categories of appropriate materials. If the reader is interested in learning more about PPR pipes, he can read the article on our portal that is titled "Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass, for heating" to get more information about them, including operational characteristics and suggestions.
Pipe made of steamed polyethylene
While stitched polyethylene (REX) pipe is not as well-known as steel or polypropylene, it is actively gaining consumer recognition. Manufacturers sell narrow-purpose products and universal pipes that are used for both hot and cold water supply.
The potential of pipe made from sewn polyethylene is undeniable. Excellent performance is demonstrated by high-quality products in heating systems.
Products made of sewn polyethylene can be used for both central and independent heating. Special compression fittings, which may have a different design, are used to connect units.
Using fittings to connect pipes frequently calls for specialized equipment. Even so, there are certain fitting designs that come with a reset set of standard plumbing keys.
Where did the term "stitched polyethylene" originate? This idea entails adding extra transverse connections to a linear molecule—polyethylene—that is well-known to all. Such "refinement" accounts for the robustness and longevity of the goods made from Rech.
An extra letter index indicates that different technologies are used in the polyethylene stitching process. Furthermore, processing technology has a certain impact on the cost, quality, and operational attributes of products.
- Re-ha-pipes with this marking are considered the highest quality.
- Re-kb-this option was developed largely as a cheaper and easy to produce alternative to re-ha. However, the experience turned out to be not quite successful, and in their characteristics they do not reach Ha, although they are also widely used in heating systems.
- The re-grab is the cheapest option, but to call it fully suitable for heating contours-would be an exaggeration.
- Re-had-products previously used for cold water supply, but today practically withdrawn from production.
The benefits of stitched polyethylene pipes include the following features:
- Shock resistance and elasticity.
- The small weight of the material greatly facilitates the installation process.
- Resistance to temperature conditions. Due to its elasticity, the pipes remain tight when freezing and thawing the coolant. Moreover, products restore their shape (have a unique quality of “memory” of previously attached forms) and do not lose their original qualities.
- Environmental purity of the material – it does not contain and does not release toxic substances into the environment.
- Chemical impact.
- The smoothness of the inner surface eliminates the risk of deposits on the walls and traffic jams.
- Non -exposure of stitched polyethylene cracking and corrosion.
- Long service life, estimated by the manufacturer at 50 years or more.
- The electrical safety of the circuit, since the material does not conduct an electric current.
- The structure of polyethylene and the thickness of the walls makes the movement of the coolant inside the pipeline silently.
- High tightness of the joint nodes.
Stitched polyethylene has far fewer drawbacks than benefits, but they nonetheless include:
- Pipes go on sale in bays, and during their stay in this state they take and hold this form. Therefore, during installation, the masters are forced to "fight" with their curvature. The pipes have to be straightened with the cost of considerable effort and with a rather frequent step to fix on the surface with special clamps, mounting rivers, garter to reinforcement, etc.P. This often complicates installation work.
- The high price of Rex pipes (of course, we are talking about “branded” products), which significantly exceeds the cost of polypropylene analogues.
The greatest option for installing "warm floors" concealed in the contours’ screed is reh-pipe.
These pipes are primarily used for installing water circuits that "warm floors" and conceal stains.
You might want to know more about what a heating system bypass is.
Combined metal -plastic pipes
The inexpensive cost, the ability for independent installation, and other advantageous features caused metal-plastic pipes to become widely known very quickly.
The fact that installing metal-plastic pipes with cangy fittings doesn’t require any extra equipment is a major factor in their popularity.
As implied by the name, the metal-plastic pipe is composed of multiple layers. Pipes can be used in heating systems because of their adequate flexibility and good margin of safety, which are made possible by the carefully chosen material combination.
Diagram of the metal-plastic pipes’ structural makeup.
This is how the approximate structure appears:
- The external and inner layer uses stitched polyethylene.
- The average reinforcing layer of aluminum makes products more resistant to high loads. The thickness of this layer in different versions of products can be from 190 to 300 μm. In addition, the aluminum layer serves as a barrier from oxygen diffusion.
- The average metallized layer is connected to the external and internal adhesive (adhesive) layers.
A large variety of product sizes are produced. Thus, the walls’ thickness can range from two to three millimeters, and their diameter can vary from 16 to 63 mm. High-quality, strictly regulated technologically, metal-plastic pipes are made to operate continuously at a coolant temperature of 95 degrees and can tolerate brief heating to 110 degrees.
The metal-plastic pipes are intended for use in both closed and open heating systems. It is important to remember that pressures between 8 and 9.5 kPa are thought to be harmful to them. That is to say, it is best to avoid using central systems due to potential water drivers and uncontrollable housing owners.
There are two methods for installing the metal-plastic contour: assessment fittings and tsang compounds.
Tsang compounds are less dependable when used in operation but easier to install in a pipeline.
A cang connection is the most basic of them all and doesn’t require any special tools. In this instance, standard plumbing keys to the necessary size or divorce will be needed for installation work.
Pipes joined together.
A totally different kind of fitti is used to install pressure testing, and in order to do the job, specific ticks that are roads unto themselves and even require practical skills to use are required.
Using special spokes to stress metal-plastic pipe fittings
Make a reservation right away for the installation method that uses assessment fittings since it is more dependable. And using it is highly advised for heating systems. Particularly when the plan’s connecting nodes are concealed and cannot be reached further. For instance, it is very dangerous to drill a tsang fitting and threaded couplings into a wall or floor.
The flexibility and capacity to maintain the spatial configuration while bending are two significant benefits of metal-plastic pipes. It’s true that flexibility still has its limitations; if you try to bend the pipe due to its too-small radius of curvature, you risk breaking it and ruining this beautiful site forever. Although the pipe can be bent by hand, it is best to use specific spring inserts for this purpose. Better yet, employ a specialized manual pipeline. You can create pipelines that are neatly smooth by using this tool.
Of course, it is important to point out the positive and negative aspects of this information.
The positive parties possess the following attributes:
- Pretty high resistance to high temperatures.
- The possibility of installing the combined circuit, that is, metal -plast using special fittings can be attached to the metal section of the pipeline. This is especially useful when you have to replace a separate old failed site.
- Smooth internal walls of pipes practically nullify the formation of deposits.
- Already mentioned flexibility and the ability to set the necessary bends.
- Using the fittings of the zang compounds, installation can be done independently.
- This type of pipes can be called universal – it is used both for arranging heating circuits, which passes in an open way, and are embedded in the wall. And the fact that the pipes are sold by large -footing bays allows you to lay a warm floor as whole circuits, without docking units closed by screed. In any case, when a hidden gasket is planned, only a assignment connection technology should be chosen for joining pipes.
Now, regarding their weaknesses:
- Many types of metal -plastic pipes are very unstable to negative temperatures. When the coolant freezes in them, a pipe wall can occur and the system depressurization. However, quality products are able to withstand this test. But it is better to insure yourself and thermal insulation of pipelines in areas of possible freezing.
- The cost of the pipes themselves can be called affordable. But here is the “style” for them, that is, fittings, tees, bounces and other necessary details, quite often “flies into a penny”. In this parameter, they very significantly lose with polypropylene.
Here is some information about selecting pipes for the water floor that may be of interest to you.
When it comes to heating pipes for your home, the choice boils down to two main options: copper and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene). Copper pipes have been the traditional choice for many years, prized for their durability and ability to handle high temperatures. However, PEX pipes have gained popularity due to their flexibility, ease of installation, and resistance to corrosion and freezing. Each type has its pros and cons, with factors like cost, longevity, and local building codes playing a role in the decision-making process. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. It"s essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each option carefully before making a decision for your home"s heating system.
The options available to you when selecting heating pipes for your home can be quite overwhelming. Different materials have different advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to take things like cost, durability, and efficiency into account. Although PEX and CPVC are more recent materials that offer advantages in terms of flexibility and cost-effectiveness, copper pipes have long been a popular choice due to their dependability and heat conductivity.
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes are becoming more and more popular because of their flexibility and ability to withstand freezing and corrosion. Compared to conventional copper pipes, they are easier to install and have a lower chance of bursting in freezing temperatures. PEX pipes are also frequently less expensive, which makes them a desirable choice for homeowners trying to save money on installation.
Conversely, in terms of cost and ease of installation, PEX pipes are not unlike from CPVC pipes, which are composed of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. They can be used in a range of applications because they are resistant to chemicals and corrosion. However, CPVC pipes are less flexible than PEX pipes, which may limit their use in certain situations.
The ideal heating pipe selection for your house will ultimately rely on your spending limit and unique requirements. Although copper pipes are still a dependable choice, more recent materials with advantages in terms of cost, flexibility, and durability include PEX and CPVC. Making an informed choice that will guarantee your home has effective insulation and heating for many years to come requires carefully weighing the benefits and drawbacks of each material.