Which metal -plastic pipes are better for heating

Selecting the appropriate plumbing for home heating is an important choice that can affect both energy efficiency and comfort. Because of their affordability, flexibility, and durability, metal-plastic pipes are a popular option. Choosing the right type for your heating system can be difficult, though, as there are a lot of options on the market.

The material composition is one of the most important factors to take into account when choosing metal-plastic pipes for heating. Usually, these pipes are made of layers of plastic encased in an aluminum layer. Although the kind of plastic used can vary, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene), PE-RT (polyethylene of raised temperature resistance), and PPR (polypropylene random copolymer) are among the materials that are frequently used.

Because of their flexibility, PEX pipes are well-known for being simple to install, particularly in confined spaces or around corners. They are appropriate for hot water and heating systems because they are corrosion-resistant and able to tolerate high temperatures. PE-RT pipes are perfect for applications where the water temperature is higher than 180°F because they provide comparable benefits but are made to withstand higher temperatures.

PPR pipes, on the other hand, are well known for their durability and resistance to chemicals. They are frequently utilized in heating systems where there is a chance of coming into contact with harsh materials or chemicals. Although PPR pipes are not as flexible as PEX or PE-RT pipes, they are renowned for their durability and dependability.

Thermal conductivity and expansion coefficients are important considerations when comparing metal and plastic pipes for heating. Because of its superior thermal conductivity, aluminum ensures effective heat transfer throughout the entire system. Furthermore, compared to only plastic pipes, metal-plastic pipes with aluminum layers are less likely to expand and contract, which lowers the possibility of leaks and long-term damage.

In conclusion, take into account elements like material composition, flexibility, temperature resistance, and thermal conductivity when selecting metal-plastic pipes for your home’s heating system. Every kind of pipe has benefits and is appropriate for a particular use. You can make an informed choice that will guarantee effective and dependable heating for many years to come by being aware of the requirements of your heating system and evaluating the characteristics of various pipe materials.

Selection and installation of metal -plastic pipes for heating

Arguments concerning the superiority of polypropylene or metal pipes for heating have been going on for more than a year. There are supporters of both technologies. Metal-plastic pipes: what are they? They have a structure akin to reinforced aluminum polypropylene: two layers of polymer, internal and external, are glued together with an aluminum foil layer that has adhesive compositions. The strength of the glue that is used, along with its durability, degree of chemical neutrality to the transported environment, and mode of use (temperature), all affect the structure’s overall capacity.

MP pipes differ in the method of docking foil: there is an overlapping technology, but there is a one -in -law, using welding. All leading campaigns that produce quality products use the method of welding VSTOK. This requires expensive and complex equipment, but such a seam is much more reliable. When welding, the overlap is normal to bend the pipe normally – the seam interferes with: it either cracks or develops into an accordion, and with constant increased pressure, such a seam is destroyed faster. In principle, in this case, you can not bend the pipes but use fittings in all the right places, but then the wiring is much more expensive: each fitting is decent and even taking into account the fact that the pipe with a seam is almost half as much as cheaper products with a weld, There will be no savings.

The composition of plastic-metal pipes

Advantages and disadvantages of metal -plastic pipes

Let’s begin with the benefits:

• The inner surface is smooth, because there is no precipitation and siltation. Over time, the pipe lumen does not decrease. Therefore, the life of the MP pipes is long – up to 50 years at a temperature of the medium up to 20 ° C and 25 years at a temperature of 95 ° C. These terms are valid only for certified quality products.
• Smaller noise than that of metal pipes. Factor of. The noise in the risers of apartment buildings is very tangible. Changing them on MP pipes, you will not hear anything.
• Compared to non -targeted polypropylene pipes, a small coefficient of thermal expansion. If we take reinforced PPR pipes, then the indicators are comparable: more than that of metal pipes, but quite acceptable (compensators or compensation circuits are required for heating).
• Do not conduct induced currents.
• Lungs.
• High -quality raw materials are chemically neutral and such pipelines can be used for any medium. Including for the supply of drinking water.
• Elastic. You can bend, without risk to break the foil layer (if the seam is welded).

Small thermal conductivity. For heating systems and DHW, this is very good: during transportation, the temperature drops slightly, which means that we get water hot, which is good in the shower and radiators.

• Plastic combustions, because the wiring of the fire water supply is not allowed by them.
• Limited area of use due to temperature restrictions (Wednesday temperature up to +110 ° C, afraid of freezing).
• Metal -plastic pipes (unlike PP) are afraid of defrosting – they lose strength and can crumble.
• Poorly tolerate ultraviolet radiation, therefore unsuitable for open laying on the street.
• The presence of thermal expansion requires the installation of compensators in long branches.
• Fittings have such a structure that the lumen of the pipe. So the presence of a large number of fittings significantly reduces the throughput of the pipeline. One thing is good – MP pipes are sold in bays and you can lay long segments, bending the pipe in the right places, and not putting fittings, as in pipe pipe. But even in this version, a more powerful circulation pump is required than when wiring with polypropylene pipes.

During installation, crimping, threaded or press fittings are used. The specifics of using MP in heating is such that even high -quality and excellently installed compounds begin to “drip” after a few years and they must be pulled up. Therefore, if you decide to pierce the pipes in the wall (popular decision), you will have to make viewing windows in the places of installation of fittings. If they are not done, you will have to break the walls (to eliminate the leak).

If we compare the prices for fittings MP and PP, then MP are much more expensive (one quality level). But they may need fewer ones-due to the fact that the pipes can be bent.

Instead, the majority of drawbacks can be linked to the design and operating guidelines, which include being shielded from UV light, not meant for use with hot media, creating compensators, and providing fire protection (combustibility). However, the remainder is not enjoyable. There will eventually come a time when there is nowhere to put off, which makes the necessity to tighten the compounds unpleasant. The only thing left is change. Fittings should come first, and then maybe the entire system.

Features and characteristics

The transverse cut of the pipe can, in theory, already tell you something about its quality. For example, if the seam is welded and the metal and polymer thickness is constant throughout, this is already a positive indication. Additionally, the pipe’s interior should be smooth and homogeneous to prevent deposits from building up inside of it.

Technical characteristics of MP

Measurements and specifications:

• wall thickness is 2-3mm;
• External diameter: 16-63mm;
• aluminum layer 0.2-0.7mm;
• The bending radius is permissible:

• with manual bend 80-550mm;
• Using a pipeline 50-180mm.

One of the most crucial elements is the aluminum layer’s thickness. It establishes the field of use and the degree of tolerance with an internal pressure pipe.

An essential characteristic of a metal-plastic pipe is the aluminum foil’s thickness.

For example, the leading manufacturer of metal -plastic pipes, the Swiss company Henco (Henko) produces two types of products (generally more, but consider two): Henco Rixc and Standart. In the first series of pipes of three diameters (16mm, 20mm, 26mm) and the thickness of the aluminum layer 0.4 (diameter 16 and 20 mm) and 0.5mm (diameter 26mm). In the Standart series, diameters are larger – 20mm, 26mm, 32mm and wall thickness 0.5mm (pipe diameter 20mm) and 0.7mm in the other two. So, pipes with an aluminum thickness 0.4 mm can be used for DHW, and all the rest for heating. If the thickness of the aluminum layer is 0.2mm, they can only be used for cold water, and with a thickness of 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm – only for DIA. In any case, so HENCO experts recommend that.

• Working temperatures .

• Constant temperature +95 about C;
• Peak loads +110 about C;
• Freezing 40 o.

For any heating system, these qualities are more than sufficient: the centralized system is unlikely to give out above 95 degrees Celsius. Perhaps a surge will occur, even if it is only for a few hours during the launch at the end of the summer. You cannot get with this temperature any longer. You are in charge of setting the system’s parameters for individual heating systems. Everyone is a master here, then. Systems using traditional solid fuel boilers are an exception, and in this case, metal pipes are probably the only ones used (assuming neither an automatic control system nor a heat accumulator are present).

An illustration of wiring plastic-and-metal heating pipes

• Pressure:

• at a temperature of the medium 95 ° C to 10 bars;
• at a temperature of the medium 20 ° C to 20 bars;
• They are destroyed at 80-90 bars.

Working pressure is one of the main factors affecting the system’s durability. It is usually within 1-1.5 bar in individual heating systems and not more than 4 bar in household ones. In light of these MP characteristics, pipes are abundantly available for use in heating systems.

Diameter of metal -plastic pipes for heating

The diameter of the boiler’s output pipes is measured when designing a heating system for the reference point. Furthermore, there are metal pipes with a minimum diameter of half a meter running through the system, regardless of whether it is polymer or metal-plastic. They already have a plastic connection with them. Furthermore, it is important to remember that the diameter is measured by the inner lumen rather than the external. The outer diameters of metal pipes and metal-plastic pipes will most likely not coincide because of the differences in wall thickness.

Larger systems are generally better off ordering a heat engineering calculation from a reputable specialist and deciding only on the pipe type you want to use for wiring. Furthermore, selecting the right specialist is crucial because not all situations—particularly common ones—can perform heat engineering calculations, where the "special" merely takes someone else’s completed project, makes some adjustments, and then sells it as its own—for a hefty price. Thus, exercise caution.

You may create a heated floor using metal and plastic pipes.

You can select the pipe diameter for heating yourself as long as you follow the guidelines and the length and number of devices are small. The guidelines for selecting pipe diameters generally go like this: the diameter at the boiler’s input/output should be used before the first branch, and after that, options might already be available. The diameter of each branch is smaller in one step. For instance, a 24 mm pipe emerged from the boiler. The next step is to split into two branches, which will be done using 18mm pipes already. 12 mm dumps are sent from one device or group of devices to another.

Similar information is gathered for "return," but in the opposite order—from smaller to greater.

Installation: types of fittings, recommended scope and installation

It’s a good thing that metalloplasty installation can sometimes be completed without specialized equipment. However, this is the point at which the cold water circuit is assembled, sometimes even on the hot water. However, it is challenging to install heating in a way that allows it to be collected for an extended period of time without the right knowledge and tools.

First, let’s discuss the various fitting types. Pressed, compression (like Vestol), and cane connection fittings with a split ring are the three types of MPs. The degree of their "connectors"—zang-collapsible, compression-conventionally collapsible, and press-fitting-non-vegetable—actually sets them apart from one another.

Detective fittings

Any connection based on these parts can be collected/disassembled repeatedly. This group of fittings has three names: detachable (collapsible), collet and threaded. The prices for them are greater than similar fittings of other groups. Their body is made of brass, and a knot is fixed on the pipe using a gasket and a squeezing ring. The assembly procedure is as follows: on a calibrated section of the pipe (a special device is used, which restores the perfect shape and size after using the scissors), a nut is put on, then the ring, after which the fitting case is planted until it stops. A ring is put on it, a nut that is tightened with your hands, and then the key is put on it.

There is no equipment needed for the installation of detective fittings for metal-plastic pipes.

These compounds work well for wiring cold water, and if used carefully, they can also be used for hot water (as long as the fittings aren’t walled up). Although the company’s floors have been operating flawlessly for 12 years, they do not advise using warm floor systems. However, there is complete trust in the genuineness of the products. These elements function normally in the heating contours for two to three years before they start to leak. You will need to make a change once the thread reserve is depleted, even though they can be tightened multiple times.

However, in certain locations, a detachable connection is required. The following video shows how to install them on MP pipes.

Compression fittings

Fittings for compression or crimping can be conditionally collapsed. They are secured on a pipe with a squeezing ring and comprise a fitting and a combined nut. Additionally, these nodes can be installed without the need of any specialized equipment; two keys are required (one of which can be divorced). They can be used for DIS, but their range is the same as that of the detachable: primarily for cold water.

Compression fittings made of plastic and metal

Press-fiting

Press nodes are currently the greatest compounds for heating. The majority of installers concur on this. A dependable connection that "holds" both pressure and temperature is only provided by these fittings. They are essential and, with skill, can be "frozen" on a wall or the floor. However, one cannot do without a press machine if they do not have the necessary tools. Although they are pricey—they start at $1,000—you can take them "for rent" for a reasonable $30 to $50 per day.

Press-fitting metal-plastic fittings

The video, which was created by a ValTec specialist—one of the industry leaders—shows the installation of press financials and compensation nodes.

How to bend a pipe

In certain locations, the pipe must be bent or bypassed. The video below explains how to bend the MP pipe using your hands and the inner and outer springs, without the need for any specialized tools.

How not to buy a fake

The quality of metal-plastic heating pipes is crucial. Properly constructed MP systems last for decades, but counterfeit systems leak after two to three years. If the pipe splits over the metal seam, it should be poured. Even if this doesn’t occur, problems still arise because aluminum deteriorates after 7 to 8 years. Therefore, give quality your whole attention. How can high-quality pipes be identified?

Purchase from a specialized store first, then request a certificate of authenticity. Naturally, this isn’t a guarantee, but a complete lack of documentation is a surefire indication of fake goods: legitimate suppliers give each batch the necessary paperwork.

Purchasing high-quality goods is crucial, not a subtle

Secondly, carefully look at pipes/fittings. If you have previously chosen the manufacturer, find information about how everything should look: the color of the outer layer of plastic, the color of the inner plastic, the texture (smooth, rough), diameters and brand of manufactured products, the details of the marking and spelling of the brand. Often this is how, by external signs, it is possible to determine the fake: normal companies apply inscriptions clearly, in full accordance with spelling. On fakes, the inscriptions are blurry, often uneven, letters or signs are inscribed/missed in the names of the brands. This is done for the most part specifically: after all, with a complete coincidence of the logo, the campaign can sue. And so, a similar name, but another ..

Thirdly, pay attention to the cut of the pipe. Most serious manufacturers weld aluminum VSTSK. The presence of a “overlap” seam is a sign of low quality. Also pay attention to the thickness of aluminum – it should be the same. As for the thickness of the polymer layer, the internal should be unequivocally the same thickness, and the surface inside the pipe is even, smooth. The outer layer, if a pipe of a traditional shape, should also have the same thickness. Exception – pipes of a special (not round) shape. Then it is also advisable to first know the parameters of the outer layer of the polymer. Here, in fact, is all means.

General conclusions can be drawn as follows: when using high -quality materials and the presence of “straight” hands, metal -plastic pipes for heating can be used. Moreover, they, even with their shortcomings, behave better in heating systems. But this is true only for high -quality "branded" materials and for systems in which the coolant does not heat up above 95 ° C. With centralized heating, such temperatures simply cannot be, because metal -plastic can be used safely. With individual heating with boilers on automatic management, there can be no problems: they can set the temperature of the coolant in them. And if so, then put up 85-90 o C and there will be reinforced polypropylene (PP or PP) and metal-plastic (MP) to feel great.

Plastic pipework will be more challenging in systems with solid fuel boilers because higher coolant levels may occur if overheating protection is not installed. Certain extremely high-quality MP and PP pipes occasionally exceed the limit. However, it is "infrequent" and "tolerated." Heat accumulators must be installed in the system in order to match the temperature with a solid fuel boiler. When the boiler runs, they take over the "excess" heat in maximum combustion mode and release the accumulated heat. You can insert plastic in this case and use this device here.

We figure out which pipes are better for heating – metal -plastic or polypropylene

Which is preferable, polypropylene or metal-plast?

The question of whether pipes—plastic, polypropylene, or metal—are better for heating is one that many customers are curious about. To put it correctly, the question is not simple. Both pipes are plastic products that have only recently been available on the market and have become very popular. Adherents and opponents have both options at the same time.

Why did it occur? simply because each type has advantages and disadvantages. Products differ slightly in their technical attributes and are not equal in terms of how they are connected. As a result, it is worthwhile to consider every last detail in both versions. Next, determine which pipes are superior.

Polypropylene pipes

When the decision of which polypropylene pipe to use in a heating system is taken into account. The fact that this substance is a member of the thermoplast family is not always understood by customers. That is, it starts to melt when exposed to a specific temperature. For instance, it softens at 140°C and begins to melt at 170°C.

Polypropylene pipes are therefore not utilized in the heating system in their pure form. Reinforced products are a specific category designed for this purpose. We’ll discuss them.

Advantages

Instead of delving into logic, let us enumerate every benefit of polypropylene pipes:

• These products are made of polymers, so they are not susceptible to corrosion processes. So, the inner diameter will always be the same, because neither the scale nor salt deposits on the internal surfaces are postponed. Hence the huge service life, which manufacturers defined as 50 years.
• Polypropylene does not in contact with chemically active substances, so it does not change its color, does not emit the smell, which means it does not affect the composition of the water, which passes through its inner diameter.
• The connection of such pipes is carried out using special fittings and the welding process. This guarantees high strength and tightness of the joint. It is the monolithic connection of parts of the polypropylene pipeline in a private house that is an undeniable advantage of the heating system. This allows the use of polypropylene pipes in hidden wiring, laying them in a wall, floor or under ceiling structures, not afraid that they will begin to flow.
• A special welding machine is used to dock polypropylene pipes, which is called a soldering iron or iron. It’s not so difficult to work with him, and you can learn to learn in just a couple of hours. In addition, the process of welding the joint takes a few seconds.
• These pipes 100% provide a system of oxygen impermeability. And although the plastic products themselves are not exposed to oxygen, metal parts that are present in the heating system of the house can corrode from the inside. And impermeability provides excellent protection and long -term operation of heating in a private house. Also, such pipes are characterized by high mechanical strength.
• Polypropylene easily expands and also easily takes the original shape and size. If the heating of a private house froze for some reason, worrying for the fact that polypropylene pipes burst, do not worth. After defrosting, they will take the original form. That is, for their qualitative condition, this will not in any way affect.
• Polypropylene refers to environmentally harmful materials. And the price of products from it is quite acceptable. If we compare it with the cost of other types of pipes, including metal -plast, then we can say with confidence that these are the cheapest pipes for today.

Flaws

Pipes made of polypropylene

Of course, it couldn’t do either without minuses:

• Polypropylene pipes can be used in systems with a not very high temperature. Therefore, for heating systems, it is better to choose reinforced models.
• Experts recommend using polypropylene products only in fireproof rooms.
• If you choose, then only pipes from a well -known manufacturer, which guarantees their high quality.

In addition, reinforced polypropylene pipes offer more advanced technical features. As an illustration, the coolant’s normal operating mode is +95C, with a short-term effect of up to +120C. In this instance, hot water pressure can reach 25 atm. However, everything is contingent upon the temperature. These circumstances are typical for any type of heating system, whether it is centralized or autonomous.

For the record, pipes can be reinforced with fiberglass or aluminum foil. Since the final material is less expensive and more durable, many manufacturers choose to use it.

Features of use

Saying that polypropylene pipes are suitable for use everywhere would not be totally accurate. Make your own judgment. There can be sharp drops in the outside air temperature in Siberia and the northern regions. Any structure that needs to be heated must have its coolant heated to extremely high temperatures, typically between 110 and 130 degrees. It is evident that such a load cannot be supported by metal-plast pipes or even reinforced polypropylene pipes.

A few remarks now regarding the reinforced layer. Which is preferable, fiberglass fiber or foil?

• The second option is better in installation. You do not have to remove the arm frame, as in the case of aluminum foil, which will reduce the time for the welding process and simplify it.
• In addition, there are no adhesive layers in it, because the fiber during the manufacture of the pipe is poured into the plastic body itself.
• For the price, both options are almost the same.

Referring back to the product’s specifications, take note of the labeling. Essentially, the "PN" indicator is what you need to focus on. Take PN20, for instance. The pipe’s maximum pressure tolerance is this. However, you will still need to consider the coolant’s temperature. For instance, the product can tolerate pressure of up to 6.5 atm if it reaches +95C. Nevertheless, this is not a private residence.

Metal -plastic pipes

Water supply pipes

Actually, a pipe made of metal and plastic is a reinforced product with an aluminum frame. There are five layers total in this multi-layer design: two are composed of adhesive material, and three are made of plastic and aluminum. It turns out that plastic makes up the first and last layers, with aluminum sandwiched in between and glued to plastic planes with a special kind of glue.

We used reinforced polypropylene pipes as an illustration so you could comprehend the fundamentals of the construction. However, they cannot be linked to products made of metal and plastic. High-strength polyethylene and elastic aluminum with a layer thickness of 0.2–0.3 mm are in fact utilized here as plastic components.

These products are manufactured with premium materials and the newest technologies. There is only one technical feature that can be mentioned to demonstrate how excellent these pipes are. They are resistant to coolant pressures up to 70 atm.

Naturally, these pipes are inoperable in such circumstances, which is why the manufacturers list the following features:

• Operating temperature +95s.
• Maximum temperature +130s.
• Working pressure at a temperature of 95C – 10 atm.
• Maximum pressure at a temperature of 25C – 25 atm.
• Under such operating conditions, metal -plastic pipes will work for more than 50 years.

All of the previously mentioned information regarding polypropylene products applies to everything from metal to plastic to pipes. That is to say, a private home’s heating system can be equipped with the same robust and dependable trumpet material.

Compound

However, because different technologies can be used to perform the joints of the metal-plast pipes, the installation process is significantly different.

Which kinds of compounds are there?

• Detachable – tsang or threaded. In this case, two pipes are interconnected by special fittings. As necessary, they can be easily disconnected, and the system is dismantled, transferred to another place and re -mounted. Pipes can be used repeatedly. The same allows you to reduce the complexity of repair work.
• Conditionally detachable. Special fittings are used here, which squeeze parts of the junction using a special squeezing ring. To remake the heating track, you just need to dismantle the ring and replace it during the new connection.
• Steply. In this type of compound, special press fings are used that join the two ends forever. In fact, this is the same soldering, sealed and durable. Such a squima is carried out on special equipment. It costs not cheap, so by home masters this option of assembling heating is used very rarely.

Take note! It is advised to buy the pipe metal plate and the fittings that connect them from the same manufacturer.

Flaws

When the benefits of two product types are nearly identical, the drawbacks differ. Ultimately, polyethylene is more vulnerable to the harmful consequences of harsh and natural environments:

• Metal -plastic is afraid of direct sunlight. Under their action, it changes color and structure. In addition, it does not withstand large mechanical loads and high temperature.
• Typically, in a threaded connection, fittings are used, the diameter of which is much smaller than the diameter of the pipe. This, firstly, reduces the passage for the coolant, which negatively affects its circulation. And, secondly, it creates the likelihood that it is in this place that the hole is overgrowing if the quality of the coolant is not at the height.
• It is very important when docking do not extinguish the pitch nut. The consequences can be the most unpleasant. For example, an incision will remain, and then a crack will appear and rupture.

Additional selection criteria

Heating polypropylene pipes

Which pipes are therefore superior? Certain positions are occasionally missing from the technical documentation.

As a result, here is a brief summary of what will assist you in making a decision:

• There is a certain range of diameters that are inherent in certain types of pipes. It depends on the technology of production. Metal -plastic pipes are produced with a diameter of 16 to 63 mm. Polypropylene – from 16 to 125 mm, although today this limit has already been overcome. All pipes with a diameter of over 63 mm are usually used in production, in addition, they can be connected without fittings, that is, the joint in the joint.
• All plastic products have a linear expansion when heated. With an increase in temperature by 1 degree, a 1 meter -length metal -plastic increases by only 0.002 mm. Polypropylene – 0.15 mm. So the difference is significant.
• Now to the issue of work. Polypropylene pipes can be connected with your own hands. This is not very difficult, the main thing is to learn how to use a welding machine. With metal -plastic, everything is more complicated. It requires experience, and the presence of special tools, and skills in working with them.

Conclusion on the topic

We have determined all the benefits and drawbacks of the two types of pipes, so you can now choose. Select polypropylene if you intend to put the heating system together by hand. Metal-plastic is your best option if you want a high-quality, professional approach.

In the world of heating your home, the choice of pipes matters—a lot. Metal-plastic pipes stand out as a popular option, but which ones are best for heating? Let"s break it down. These pipes offer a balance of affordability and durability, making them a common choice. But when it comes to heating, the type of metal used in the pipes can affect performance. Copper pipes are excellent conductors of heat, ensuring efficient warmth distribution throughout your home. On the other hand, aluminum pipes are lightweight and corrosion-resistant, ideal for long-term use. So, which is better? It ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize heat conductivity, copper pipes might be the way to go. But if durability and cost-effectiveness are key, aluminum pipes could be your top pick. Consider your heating requirements and weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision for your home.

Which is better to use: metal -plastic or polypropylene pipes?

The implementation of water supply and heating systems requires the use of more technological solutions than steel pipelines as the scale of individual construction increases. Polypropylene and metal-plastic pipes are now commonly used as a remedy for this issue.

General requirements for the operation of pipeline systems

Pipeline systems are subject to several requirements when they are operating, including:

• mechanical strength of the structure;
• wide temperature range of work;
• chemical inertia of the materials used;
• The resistance of the inner layer to mechanical abrasion;
• reliability and tightness of the joints;
• Convenience and ease of installation work.

While completing all of these requirements is not required, doing so will lengthen the non-evidence interval of work because they have a direct impact on the system’s reliability.

Materials used for the manufacture of pipes

Two materials that are commonly used in pipeline construction nowadays are polypropylene and metal-plastic. It’s hard to say which is superior. Everybody has benefits and drawbacks of their own.

Two groups can be formed conditionally from the properties:

1. Structural – associated with mechanical and chemical resistance of the material.
2. Technological – associated with the process of installation and operation of the pipeline.

Structural properties

How long the system will last without blockages, leaks, or accidents depends on the materials used in the pipeline’s construction (especially in heating and hot water supply). The following are the most crucial parameters:

• temperature range of operation;
• the structure of the wall of the pipeline;
• strength characteristics;
• The roughness of the inner surface.

Metal -plast

Pipes made of metal and plastic have a complicated compound structure. Stitched polyethylene of the PEX or Pe RT brand is used to make both the outer and inner layers. They had a layer of aluminum foil between them. Polyethylene is inert to the fluid in circulation. Its surface is incredibly smooth, and salt deposits that are typical of steel communications hardly ever form on it.

Aluminum increases the overall structure’s stiffness. Metal-plastic pipelines can be operated in a fairly rigid mode thanks to the metal layer:

• The maximum operating temperature is +95 ° C (a short -term increase in heating systems is allowed to 110 ° C);
• working pressure – up to 10 atmospheres.

Polypropylene

One characteristic of the pipes made of polypropylene is their high coefficient of temperature expansion. The heating pipe undergoes a significant change in linear dimensions when heated. On a segment of 10 m, there may be a length increase of up to 100 mm.

Using reinforced products can help you avoid these unwanted occurrences. Fiberglass or metal foil are typically utilized as reinforcement. An order of magnitude less thermal expansion results from the addition of a second layer.

Polypropylene possesses a high moment of inertia, much like metal plastic. Water has no interaction with the inner wall. Polypropylene pipes can be used for heating, hot water supply, and cold water supply.

The maximum temperature values (up to +75 °C) and pressure values (up to 7.5 atmospheres) that can occur during system operation are considered when determining the system’s working parameters. It is not advised to exceed these limitations because doing so could result in pipe deformation and system depressurization, both of which have serious consequences.

Installation and operation of pipelines

Different material properties dictate the shape of pipes and call for superior methods for system installation and operation.

Metal -plastic

Bays are where metal-plastic pipes are made. The bay is unwound while the work is being done. The necessary length segment is measured. Cut off with circular scissors or, if working with metal, hacksaws, and straighten by hand.

One of the material’s greatest advantages is its flexibility. The pipe can be bent manually ("on the knee") with a small radius. The internal conductor-lodge (springs) allows metal and plastic to be bent at required angles up to ninety degrees. It is best not to overdo these things, though, as bending at a sharp angle weakens the aluminum layer and causes creases, cracking, and deformation.

Fittings are used to join individual sections together. Two categories exist:

1. Tsang (with a rug nut).
2. Crimping (under pressing).

It is not necessary to use specialized or costly tools to install cangy fittings. It takes two tap (gas) keys or a divorce. An electric or manual press is already used to install compensation fittings.

The rubber or nylon gasket used to seal joints with a united nut is a weak point. It becomes less elastic after a year or two at high temperatures, and it may begin to flow if the heating system’s pressure suddenly changes. Pulled up periodically is necessary to rule out leaks. Consequently, it is preferable to avoid installing fixtures in difficult-to-reach areas or behind a layer of ornamental décor.

This disadvantage is not present in metal-plastic press fittings. Its high tightness allows them to be fully enclosed within the walls.

Here’s how direct installation works:

• Using a template or knife, a pipe cut is controlled (it should be perfectly round);
• The fingered fingering fingering nut is put on the pipe;
• The presence of sealing gaskets is checked;
• The prepared end of the pipe is put on the fitting place of the fitting;
• tightly, without the application of unnecessary efforts, the nut is wrapped.

Fitting installation beneath pressing will differ slightly. Squeezing the connecting element that is installed in the prepped pipe accomplishes the fixation.

Polypropylene pipes

Polypropylene pipes will be released in straight sections up to three meters in length. Polypropylene fittings are used to join individual components.

An outer diameter is slightly undermined and an aluminum layer is removed using a special tool or knife at the end of the pipe.

Here’s how the installation procedure works:

• The prepared pipe is inserted into the fitting hole;
• The plow of the soldering iron is put on the connection;
• The compound is performed.

Polypropylene components melt when heated and unite to form a monolithic structure. Leaks cannot physically form during operation when the installation is done correctly. This lets you do any necessary hidden system wiring.

The pipeline is concealed within the wall or walled up behind finishing.

The typical connecting angles of shaped products (90 °, 60 °, and 45 °) place limits on the angles at which polypropylene pipelines can be bent.

Material	Advantages
PEX (cross-linked polyethylene)	Flexible, resistant to corrosion, less prone to freezing and bursting, easy to install.
PP-R (polypropylene-random)	Good heat retention, durable, resistant to high temperatures, less likely to develop leaks.

For heating systems, metal-plastic pipes are a common option because of their flexibility, longevity, and simplicity of installation. Weighing the advantages and disadvantages of each type of metal-plastic pipe is crucial when deciding which is best for heating.

The material that was used to construct the pipe is one of the most important things to think about. Metal and plastic combinations vary amongst manufacturers, and each has pros and cons of its own. While some pipes prioritize durability and offer better resistance to temperature fluctuations and corrosion, others prioritize flexibility and are easier to install in confined spaces.

The diameter of the pipes is another crucial factor to take into account. The diameter has an impact on the heating system’s flow rate; higher flow rates are possible with larger diameters. Larger pipes, however, could also be more costly and more difficult to install in some areas. The diameter of metal-plastic pipes for heating must be selected with consideration for both practicality and flow rate.

When choosing metal-plastic pipes for heating, the connection technique is also very important. There are several ways to connect, such as soldering, compression, and push-fit. Regarding cost, dependability, and ease of installation, each method has pros and cons of its own. Selecting a connection method that aligns with the installation preferences and requirements of your particular heating system is crucial.

The ideal metal-plastic pipe for heating will ultimately rely on your personal requirements and preferences. Investigating various pipe brands and varieties is crucial, taking into account elements like material, diameter, and connection style. Through meticulous assessment of these variables, and if required, expert advice from heating specialists, you can choose the best metal-plastic pipes for your heating system, guaranteeing effective operation and long-term dependability.