Which pipe material to choose: polypropylene or metal -plastic?

The choice of pipes for the essential parts of your home’s heating system can have a big impact on how well they work and how long they last. Plumbing systems frequently employ polypropylene and metal-plastic, each of which has advantages and disadvantages of its own. Understanding each of their distinctive qualities and how they fit your particular needs will help you choose between them.

Because of their flexibility, polypropylene pipes can be installed in a variety of configurations with few joints. This adaptability can be very helpful when navigating small spaces or retrofitting existing systems. Furthermore, polypropylene is resistant to scale accumulation and corrosion, extending the lifespan and efficiency of your heating system over time.

Conversely, metal-plastic pipes combine the resistance to corrosion of plastic with the strength of metal. Compared to pure plastic pipes, this hybrid material is more resilient and can tolerate higher pressures and temperatures. In situations where additional strength and stability are required, like in high-traffic areas or outdoor installations, metal-plastic pipes are frequently chosen.

The cost, installation requirements, and intended use are important considerations when choosing between metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes. Although metal-plastic pipes are more durable and perform better in harsh environments, polypropylene pipes might be more affordable and simpler to install. The optimal decision ultimately comes down to your priorities and the particular requirements of your heating system.

The main distinctions between metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes will be discussed in this article, along with the benefits and drawbacks of each material in terms of price, ease of installation, longevity, and suitability for a range of heating systems. You’ll be in a better position to choose a material that best suits your insulation and heating requirements if you are aware of the distinctive qualities of each one.

Metal -plastic pipes

The metal-plastic pipe is composed of three layers. Aluminum is sandwiched between two polyethylene. Global composition fixes all layers. Metal-plastic pipes have a long service life because of their intricate design.

Metal-plastic in the diameters of 16, 20, 26, 32, and 40 mm is produced in large quantities; with their assistance, local water supply wiring, eyeliners, and household appliances are formed. Larger diameter pipes (50 and above) are mostly found in industrial settings and are seldom used otherwise.

MT exhibits the following characteristics:

• heat resistance;
• anti -corrosion;
• resistance to aggressive chemicals;
• ease;
• flexibility;
• low electrical conductivity;
• strength;
• oxygen permeability.

The goal of the plastic-metal pipes is:

• heat and water supply, heating;
• transportation of liquid and gaseous substances in various industries;
• in air conditioning systems;
• like protective screens for electric cables and other wires.

For the heating and insulation systems in your house, selecting the proper pipe material is essential to their longevity and effectiveness. A few considerations to weigh when choosing between metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes are ease of installation, affordability, and durability. In general, polypropylene pipes are less expensive than metal-plastic ones and are lightweight and corrosion-resistant. On the other hand, metal-plastic pipes are less prone to expand or contract in response to changes in temperature and provide superior temperature resistance. Metal-plastic pipes are also more durable, which makes them appropriate for high-pressure systems. The final decision is based on your financial situation and individual needs. Making the best choice for the insulation and heating needs of your house can be aided by professional advice.

Polypropylene pipes

Granules of the polypropylene copolymer are used in the manufacture of polypropylene pipes, which have a straightforward homogenous structure in contrast to metal-plastic pipes.

PPR marking is significant. It is made up of two letters, PN, and a two-digit number, 16, 20, 25,. The figure represents the highest value of media that the pipes are suitable for use in. Pipe labeling requirements must be met by fittings and locking reinforcements.

The outer surface diameter range for PLP PN 16, 20 polypropylene pipes is 20 to 110 mm; for PN 25, the range is restricted to 20 to 25 mm.

The range of application is the same as that of a metal-plastic family. The benefits and features of technology are also fairly comparable. Below is a more thorough comparison of the attributes.

Comparative characteristics of metal -plastic and PPR pipes

We use several comparison criteria to ascertain the benefits and drawbacks of polypropylene and metal-plastic pipes.

By the duration of the operational period

The pipes are intended to last 50 years, if the factory markings are to be believed. That probably will be the case in optimal operating conditions. With a period like this, there are actually no delayed operation results.

The manufacturer of the polypropylene pipe claims that the life of the pipe may be 50 years. But at the same time it is necessary to adhere to a number of conditions under which the pipes will actually serve the due date. When pipe under high temperature, its operating life is significantly reduced. It is necessary and to take into account the pressure in the pipe that is created when using it. In low-rise buildings, working pressure can make-2 atmospheres. In a multi-storey 6-7 atmospheres. In fact, practice shows that the time of use of this pipe is approximately 15-17 years. In mass construction, the use of these pipes began in the 2000s, and therefore at this stage the time did not show how much durable this material could be. If we talk about a simple single -layer pipe, it can be PN 10, PN 20, we are talking about a low -rise building, then this pipe can also be used in low -temperature heating systems.

Regarding the metal-plastic pipes, things are considerably better here. The pipes were exposed to increased pressure and temperature by the manufacturer. Since the pipe has passed every test, it is currently safe to say that it belongs in the premium class. You can safely worry that a metal-plastic pipe you use in your home will last for fifty years.

By the number of joints

The mild flexibility of metal-plastic is a result of technological properties, as it is produced by bays ranging in depth from 20 to 100 meters. As a result, the engineering scheme contains very few joints. However, polypropylene does not bend; it is inelastic. Soldering tools, couplings, tees, and corners must be used for every direction change in the pipeline. Many connections are used in the polypropylene project. This is in line with the extremely intricate process of installing a polypropylene pipeline, which involves a greater number of fittings and operational tools.

An alloy is created when a polypropylene pipe and fitting come together. Both high-quality and low-quality alloys are possible. However, because this junction is not visible, you are unable to ascertain this. Experience demonstrates that two joints can run out of 100. If the joint runs in the screed, it is extremely risky. When we compare metal-plastic to polypropylene once more, metal-plastic clearly has an advantage.

The metal-plastic pipe is calibrated at the joints, the press is inserted, and a machine clamps the press. In this instance, there is a guarantee of excellent quality and non-admissibility of leaks in the joint. A metal-plastic pipe has at least ten times smaller joints.

As you can see, there is a greater chance that a joint will flow when there are more joints. Polypropylene pipes lose to metal-plastic in this criterion.

By linear expansion

The structure of metal-plastic combines a number of materials, and as the temperature rises, each of these materials exhibits a distinct expansion indicator. Temperature variations can therefore lead to pipe stratification and breach the butt area’s tightness. 0.025 mm/m is the overall linear expansion indicator for MT.

However, the coefficient of linear increase of polypropylene is high. For instance, the pipeline is heated to 70 0 s when a highway is installed at 20 0 si and a carrier is moved further within it at 90 0 s. As a result, each network meter increased by 10.5 mm. There are polypropylene pipes that have an additional layer of reinforcement to lessen linear expansion. In any case, the indicator below is for metal-plastic pipes.

For oxygen protection

Polypropylene "leads" polypropylers in terms of both the permeability of oxygen and the expansion of the pipe under temperature influence. Rust is partially caused by the oxygen that is freely passed through its molecules. If we are discussing a heating system, then the answer is, of course, not in the PPR pipe but rather, for instance, in a steel heating radiator. Kisllorodone is a unique metal-plastic combination. Examine the following physical markers of oxygen diffusion:

MT - 0 - 0.32 mg/m2 per day; PT - 900 mg/m2 per day.

The figures are self-explanatory.

Oxygen permeability in reinforced polypropylene is significantly less than. Systems with closed heating can make use of it.

By accessibility

In terms of democracy, metal-plastic is much less expensive than polypropylene: the price of a metal-plastic pipeline will be 1.5–2 times more than the price of polypropylene (including fittings).

The best option for a warm floor

Masters chuckle at this headline, but it’s a common question. You must get in touch with some required installation requirements in order to choose the pipe material for a heated floor.

• The maximum possible exclusion from the diagram of the connections, joints and seams: they are a factor in the emergence of emergency situations in conditions of dynamic loads on the floor, such a neighborhood as mud growths very often appear in sections of compounds;
• The highway should be strong enough and withstand pressure up to 10 bars;
• Pipes with a smooth surface involved in laying a warm floor will reduce the hydraulic resistance and the appearance of unpleasant deposits on the inner surface of the pipeline, and will also not create noise when the carrier is moving in the system;
• The pipe should have good heat transfer

Naturally, there are other subtleties to the configuration of warm floors. However, it is evident that metal and plastic is the most appropriate material even with a limited list.

It is inappropriate to use polypropylene in the warm floor project’s implementation. The system won’t work because of the lack of flexibility, which will lead to heating issues in different places and make the installation process itself truly laborious.

The best solution for heating

The least expensive option for organizing the heating of the house is to use polypropylene pipes. Because PPR is such an efficient option, it is frequently used in the implementation of heating projects. Among the approach’s additional benefits, you can call:

• slight weight of the pipeline, facilitating transportation and work; Lightness is especially attractive in cases of subsidence of the building or its foundation on movable soil;
• the possibility of closed installation in the wall;
• long service life of the system;
• Independence from the seasonality of heating: for example, when disconnected in a country house for the winter period, the pipes will not freeze;
• Simplicity of hygienic treatment.

• some complexity of installation due to numerous work on adhesion, docking; The installation of heating in a two -story building will take considerable time;
• claim to heat resistance, which is 70 0 s;
• sagging pipes on long sections of the network due to their slight stiffness;
• a large linear expansion indicator, requiring additional installation of compensators when installing a closed type.

If economical citizens prefer polypropylene, then metal-plastics are a material for those who value ease of use over complexity and number of "troubles." A brief summary of additional benefits:

• high heat resistance;
• oxygen permeability;
• a low linear expansion coefficient, which allows you to easily equip a closed -type heating system;
• noiselessness in action due to the smoothness of the inner surface of the walls.

Among the drawbacks, the fact that the heating system is episodic and can be quickly disabled due to the freezing and deformation of the metal and plastic pipes (especially during the winter) should not be given special attention.

Solution for the water supply

The organization of the water supply uses polypropylene and metal-plastic pipes, just like in heating. Both options have benefits and drawbacks that are comparable to those of the heating specified in the pipeline.

In conclusion, polypropylene and metal-plastic housing can both supply warmth and water. Without considering all the subtleties of designing heating, the benefits and drawbacks are relative. The selection of materials needs to be done carefully because, for instance, after saving money on PT purchases, you can eventually afford to pay a sizable sum for installation services.

Recommendation: To avoid wasting time and money on improper material selection, it is advisable to consult an expert when selecting pipes for home network engineering.

The decision between metal-plastic and polypropylene pipes can be quite difficult to make when it comes to insulation and heating requirements. Both materials have benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to carefully consider your options.

First off, polypropylene pipes have a reputation for being flexible and reasonably priced. They are a more appealing option for homeowners on a tight budget because they are comparatively less expensive than metal-plastic pipes. Furthermore, their adaptability makes installation simpler, particularly in confined or complicated areas.

Conversely, metal-plastic pipes are more resilient to high temperatures and have better durability. These pipes, which are composed of a mix of plastic and metal layers, are less vulnerable to temperature or pressure changes. They are therefore perfect for prolonged use and resistance to adverse environmental conditions.

Metal-plastic pipes frequently win out when maintenance and longevity are taken into account. They are less likely to deteriorate over time due to their sturdy construction, which lowers the need for regular replacements or repairs. For homeowners, this may mean long-term cost savings and peace of mind.

But you also need to take into account the particular needs of your insulation and heating system. Which pipe material is best for you will depend on a number of factors, including your budget, the type of heating system you have, and the layout of your home.

In conclusion, each type of pipe—polypropylene and metal-plastic—has advantages and disadvantages of its own. Although polypropylene might be less expensive and simpler to install, metal-plastic is more resilient and long-lasting. The optimal decision will ultimately rely on your unique situation and priorities. You can guarantee your home has effective insulation and heating by making an informed decision by carefully weighing your options and taking into account your unique needs.