How PEX Fittings Are Utilized In Plumbing Schemes
The flexibility and durability of tubing constructed of high density polyethylene material and connected by PEX fittings provides many advantages over plumbing schemes utilizing metal or rigid plastic pipes. PEX pipes do not corrode and withstand cold temperatures without becoming brittle. They cost less than metal or pvc piping. They are much simpler to install because they are stored in spools and need fewer fittings.
In cold temps PEX tubes retain their flexibility and do not become delicate and burst. Unlike metal pipes, PEX tubes will not rust and will not build up scale. PEX tubing is energy cost-efficient as well because they do not conduct heat.
PEX tubing is stored on reels. Spools weigh less than copper or rigid plastic pipe making them less expensive to ship and easier to store. When utilised in an Installation, PEX tubing can be unrolled directly from the spool and does not need coupling fittings. This saves the time and expense of running pipe. PEX tubing can be flexed 90 degrees eliminating the need for elbow fittings. PEX tubing does not need to be soldered so there are no unhealthy fumes and risks posed by utilizing a torch.
There are a assortment of connection methods employed in installing PEX schemes. Some of these techniques are proprietary and several require specific tools. Basically, the fitting is laid over the tube or in the tube and then a clamp is crimped around the tube or fitting forming a tight fit. The rings can be made of various metals or plastic depending on he joining method.
Tubes are cut utilizing a special PEX pipe cutter and come in different sizes to accommodate 1/2″ or 3/4″ pipes. A main crimping tool is employed to pinch the rings over the pipe or fitting. There is a de-crimping tool that is utilised to remove crimped rings. There are some specialized tools employed for the stainless steel clamps and proprietary joining methods.
Fittings are normally constructed of brass, although there are some made of bronze, copper and engineered plastic fittings for PEX plumbing. There are characteristic ridges on the “insert” part of the fitting. The ridges, the PEX pipe and the crimped metal ring all work together to form a high-pressure seal.
Utilising the system of PEX fittings in addition to PEX tubing has definite advantages over metal and plastic piping. It is less expensive than rigid plastic and copper piping . It can be put in right from the spools. It involves less fittings. It last longer because it is not susceptible to erosion.
This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 at 4:48 am and is filed under General. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.