They do not handle high temperatures well and may soften and fail. As a consumer, the fittings you choose to use ultimately depend on the type of installation, budget, and personal preference. Anyone interested in a do-it-yourself project can put together a functional piping system using plastic PEX fittings and pipes. With that being said, PEX pipe works best for internal plumbing needs thanks to its flexibility. Temperature Range: Up to 200 Deg F. Temperature Rating: 200. PVC : 95 o C Not only does the ability to expand help under cold weather conditions, but it also helps when you need to connect PEX pipe to another pipe that doesnt match up perfectly. [5], Basic plumbing is not complicated at all. There are numerous types of products and tools to use when working with PEX plastic fittings vs. brass for piping systems. Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) is a plastic material made from medium- or high-density polyethylene that is modified to have improved properties such as enhanced heat resistance and long term strength and stability that make it an excellent choice for use in service lines, hot- and cold-potable water distribution systems, residential * Numbers are approximate as per ASTM requirements. A: No, push fittings cannot be used with PEX-AL-PEX tubing, PVC pipe or PB (PolyButylene) pipe. The first reason why homeowners experience PEX plastic fittings problems is the failure of the pressure test.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'plumbertip_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_11',173,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbertip_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'plumbertip_com-large-mobile-banner-1','ezslot_12',173,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbertip_com-large-mobile-banner-1-0_1');.large-mobile-banner-1-multi-173{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. Also, no plastic pipe or fittings can be used within 18 in. Because they are better conductors of heat than plastic fittings, their use may result in loss of heat along the conveyance line. PEX is vulnerable to degradation from ultraviolet rays produced by sunlight and fluorescent tubes. PEX plastic is a recent material to be used in the plumbing system. They have better elastic properties compared to brass fittings. ASTM's plastic pipe standards are instrumental in specifying, testing, and evaluating the physical, mechanical, design, and installation requirements for plastic, polymeric, or elastomeric pipes, tubing, and fittings, including the seals, threads, and couplings that join them together. The products are also used in radiation floor heating systems. The room temperature burst pressure rating of PEX is 160 psi, while that figure for CPVC is 2.5 times higher at 400 psi. If water freezes in the pipe, for example, PEX will expand to accommodate the change. The most common ones are plastic, brass, and copper PEX pipe fittings. The appropriate fitting in terms of material, size, and shape for the junction should be used to achieve a good connection. F492-95 Standard Specification for Propylene and Polypropylene (PP) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2004), F781-95 Standard Specification for Perfluoro (Alkoxyalkane) Copolymer (PFA) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2004), F599-95 Standard Specification for Poly(Vinylidene Chloride) (PVDC) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2004), F2165-19 Standard Specification for Flexible Pre-Insulated Plastic Piping, F1488-14(2019) Standard Specification for Coextruded Composite Pipe, F1545-15a(2021) Standard Specification for Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe, Fittings, and Flanges, F1335-04 Standard Specification for Pressure-Rated Composite Pipe and Fittings for Elevated Temperature Service (Withdrawn 2011), F2262-09 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene/Aluminum/Crosslinked Polyethylene Tubing OD Controlled SDR9 (Withdrawn 2018), F1986-01(2011) Standard Specification for Multilayer Pipe Type 2, Compression Fittings, and Compression Joints for Hot and Cold Drinking-Water Systems (Withdrawn 2020), F1987-01(2011) Standard Specification for Multilayer Pipe Type 2, Compression Fittings, and Compression Joints for Hydronic Heating Systems (Withdrawn 2020), F3346-19 Standard Specification for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature/Aluminum/Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PERT/AL/PE-RT) Composite Pressure Pipe, F2720/F2720M-20 Standard Specification for Glass Fiber Reinforced Polyethylene (PE-GF) Spiral Wound Large Diameter Pipe, F546-95 Standard Specification for Perfluoro (Ethylene-Propylene) Copolymer (FEP) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2002), F423-95 Standard Specification for Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe, Fittings, and Flanges (Withdrawn 2002), F491-95 Standard Specification for Poly(Vinylidene Fluoride) (PVDF) Plastic-Lined Ferrous Metal Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2002), F3506-21e1 Standard Specification for Standard Specification for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature/Aluminum/Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT/AL/PE-RT) Composite Pressure Pipe based on Inner Diameter (ID) for use in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Lin, F1281-23 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene/Aluminum/Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX-AL-PEX) Pressure Pipe, F1282-23 Standard Specification for Polyethylene/Aluminum/Polyethylene (PE-AL-PE) Composite Pressure Pipe, D2665-20 Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings, F2618-21 Standard Specification for Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) (CPVC) Pipe and Fittings for Chemical Waste Drainage Systems, F2390-21 Standard Specification for Poly(Vinyl Chloride) (PVC) Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Pipe and Fittings Having Post-Industrial Recycle Content, F1673-10(2021)e1 Standard Specification for Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) Corrosive Waste Drainage Systems, D2661-21 Standard Specification for Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Schedule 40 Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe and Fittings, F2021-17(2022) Standard Guide for Design and Installation of Plastic Siphonic Roof Drainage Systems, F2135-01(2022) Standard Specification for Molded Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Short-Pattern Plastic Fittings, F2536-17(2022) Standard Guide for Installing Plastic DWV Piping Suspended from On-Grade Slabs, F3371-22 Standard Specification for Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings for Drainage, Waste, and Vent Applications, F628-22 Standard Specification for Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene (ABS) Schedule 40 Plastic Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe With a Cellular Core, F409-22 Standard Specification for Thermoplastic Accessible and Replaceable Plastic Tube and Tubular Fittings, F1499-22 Standard Specification for Coextruded Composite Drain, Waste, and Vent Pipe (DWV), F1901-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings for Roof Drain Systems, D2949-22 Standard Specification for 3.25-in. 4. If you use a manifold and 'home-run' system, it's like running a garden hose to each fixture super fast and easy. JG Speedfit pipe and fittings are approved to work at the following: 12 bar at 20C 6 bar at 65C and, 3 bar at 82C - 105C max, but the pipes and fittings can withstand 114C for short periods of time, in case of thermostat malfunctions. Additionally, plastic PEX pipes can be routed easily through walls and floor spaces. As the water-ice temperature drops to 0F, the forces created can range from 25,000 psi to 114,000 psi. PEX pipes freeze when temperatures fall below freezing for exposed outdoor pipes and when temperatures fall below the temperature alert threshold for underground outdoor pipes. This is especially true in new home builds. Any temperature above 73F will result in a reduced working pressure within the piping system up to a maximum of 140 F. At this temperature the de-rating factor is 0.22, where it is 1.0 at 73 F. This explains why the products are suitable for both hot and cold water installations. Brass fittings are superior in strength and last longer than plastic in some instances. It tends to be too aggressive for the system, particularly at high temperatures. Consequently, it is not advisable to install such fittings in boiler rooms or near furnaces. Different materials expand and contract differently when exposed to changes in temperature. The specification section covers the details you need for your projects. And pros don't want a callback to fix their own work on their dime. However, after a significant amount of stress, the pipe may experience a leak, especially at a connection point. They are lighter compared to brass fittings. Lets see. D3311-22 Standard Specification for Drain, Waste, and Vent (DWV) Plastic Fittings Patterns. to 60 in. It wont burst as easily when in contact with freezing temperatures like a rigid pipe made of metal, such as galvanized steel, iron, or copper pipe is below zero. Yes. They can also be covered with black plastic or vinyl steel. PEX tubing is SDR9 with standard hydrostatic pressure ratings of 160 psi at 73F (1105 kPa at 23C) and 100 psi at 180F (690 kPa at 82C). Check out these helpful guides! They are more durable than plastic if installed correctly. Brass fittings are applied in pipe systems that convey water, flammable gases, chemicals slurries, and other substances used in plumbing. Consult the specific PEX manufacturer's literature and listings for appropriate pressure ratings. ** Fittings MUST be protected from freezing temperatures where fluid expansion due to freezing could occur. Find out, Copyright 1996 - 2023 ASTM. They have a conductor short-circuit rating of 250 C. Even if temperatures dont fall below freezing in the area that often, it only takes one cold front for you to experience serious plumbing problems due to frozen pipes. While the process prevents the pipes from bursting at the time, PEX pipes can only expand and contract so many times before it causes impactful stress on the pipes. Orders with Free Ground Shipping also qualify! Brass fittings are commonly used in such connections. This is why push fittings can be used with all of these pipes. F1901-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings for Roof Drain Systems. Plastic fittings for PEX piping are better and more effective than their brass counterparts in some circumstances. Plastic PEX fittings are made to withstand high temperatures. 1.5 times the maximum working pressure but no greater than pipes pressure rating at given temperature. CPVC systems de-rate faster than PEX as temperatures increase but remains at least double the pressure rating of PEX up to 120 degrees F and retains a pressure rating advantage all the way up to the code requirement. The Corzan CPVC compound has been pressure rated in accordance with ASTM D2837 and PPI TR-3 having Hydrostatic Design Basis (HDB) of: 4000 psi at 72F (23C) as listed in PPI TR-4. Some of the rules and guidelines in learning how to use plastic PEX fittings are outlined below. ASTM International is providing no-cost public access to important ASTM standards used in the production and testing of personal protective equipment. endstream endobj 33 0 obj <> endobj 34 0 obj <> endobj 35 0 obj <>stream Here's an overview of some of the common ways PVC, CPVC and PEX can be used in the home. Although this is a lesser problem than the failure of the fittings, it still presents challenges to plumbers and homeowners.if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'plumbertip_com-leader-3','ezslot_17',176,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbertip_com-leader-3-0');if(typeof ez_ad_units!='undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[300,250],'plumbertip_com-leader-3','ezslot_18',176,'0','1'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-plumbertip_com-leader-3-0_1');.leader-3-multi-176{border:none!important;display:block!important;float:none!important;line-height:0;margin-bottom:7px!important;margin-left:auto!important;margin-right:auto!important;margin-top:7px!important;max-width:100%!important;min-height:250px;padding:0;text-align:center!important}. By Daniel Worm; June 15, 2016 Filed Under . At 180oF, the pressure rating is 100 psi, while 80 psi corresponds to 200oF (psi stands for pounds per square inch). Available in straight bars Pressure rating PN 6 Pressure rating PN 10 Max. However, internal plumbing can also freeze, especially if the residents go on vacation and leave the heat turned off. Pipe Dope 101: Everything You Need to Know, How to Connect a Dishwasher to a Garbage Disposal. Plastic fittings, however, have no such problem. (152 To 762 mm) Polypropylene (PP) Corrugated Single Wall Pipe And Double Wall Pipe (Withdrawn 2018), F2737-11(2021) Standard Specification for Corrugated High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Water Quality Units, F1759-97(2018) Standard Practice for Design of High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Manholes for Subsurface Applications, F2987-12(2018) Standard Specification for Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe and Fittings for Mine Heap Leach Aeration Applications, F894-19 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Large Diameter Profile Wall Sewer and Drain Pipe, D2447-03 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe, Schedules 40 and 80, Based on Outside Diameter (Withdrawn 2010), D2104-03 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe, Schedule 40 (Withdrawn 2010), F1533-20 Standard Specification for Deformed Polyethylene (PE) Liner, F892-95 Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Corrugated Pipe With a Smooth Interior and Fittings (Withdrawn 2001), F3034-21 Standard Specification for Billets made by Winding Molten Extruded Stress-Rated High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), F3123-22 Standard Specification for Metric Outside Diameter Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PN), F2623-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Systems for Non-Potable Water Applications, F714-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based on Outside Diameter, D3485-22 Standard Specification for Coilable High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Cable in Conduit (CIC), F2160-22a Standard Specification for Solid Wall High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Conduit Based on Controlled Outside Diameter (OD), F809/F809M-95e1 Standard Specification for Large Diameter Polybutylene Plastic Pipe (Withdrawn 2006), D2239-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (SIDR-PR) Based on Controlled Inside Diameter, D2737-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Tubing, D3035-22 Standard Specification for Polyethylene (PE) Plastic Pipe (DR-PR) Based on Controlled Outside Diameter, F876-23 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing, F2649-14(2023) Standard Specification for Corrugated High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Grease Interceptor Tanks, F2769-23a Standard Specification for Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Plastic Hot and Cold-Water Tubing and Distribution Systems, F2881/F2881M-21e1 Standard Specification for 12 to 60 in. By the time such leaks are discovered, they have already grown and may present serious repair challenges. Because brass can withstand higher temperatures as compared to plastic fittings, they are recommended for such installations. It expands to the greatest degree. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, has a chemical structure that gives it flexibility to withstand pressure increases and perform better in the winter. Some swear that brass is unsurpassed in its qualities, while others consider plastic PEX fittings similar or even superior to brass. PSI and / or temperatures over 73.4F (23C) the use of metal insert fittings is highly. For instance, plastic fittings are considered suitable for installations that convey acidic or poor-quality water. A PEX supply won't corrode like copper. SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are the core products within the SharkBite System, and provide the easiest and most dependable way to join PEX, copper, CPVC, HDPE or PE-RT pipe in any combination without solder, clamps, unions or glue.When you insert the pipe, the stainless steel teeth in our push-to-connect fittings bite down and grip tight, while the specially formulated o-ring compresses . Although the hacksaw can get the job done, it leaves the surface with burrs which may result in improper connections. Copper vs Plastic Pipes (Which Is Better For Plumbing). PEX pipe and PVC pipe both consist of plastic and both make a great option for most residential plumbing needs. Copyright PlumbingNav.com 2023 Since PEX pipe doesnt hold up as well when exposed to UV rays, PVC pipe is the better choice for outdoor plumbing as it can last longer. PEX 101: Everything You Need to Know About Flexible Plastic Piping Industry expert offers insight into cross-linked polyethylene for domestic water use. Plastic PEX fittings and pipes are best suited for domestic plumbing installations because they are ductile. Annular Corrugated Profile Wall Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings for Land Drainage Applications, F3288/F3288M-20 Standard Specification for MRS-Rated Metric- and Inch-sized Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pressure Pipe, D2662-96a Standard Specification for Polybutylene (PB) Plastic Pipe (SIDR-PR) Based on Controlled Inside Diameter (Withdrawn 2003), D2666-96a Standard Specification for Polybutylene (PB) Plastic Tubing (Withdrawn 2005), D3000-95ae1 Standard Specification for Polybutylene (PB) Plastic Pipe (SDR-PR) Based on Outside Diameter (Withdrawn 2003), F2788/F2788M-21 Standard Specification for Metric and Inch-sized Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Pipe, F2736-13e1 Standard Specification for 6 to 30 in. Please provide your Zip code for delivery estimate. See this post for tips: Were passionate about all things plumbing, and love sharing tips, how-to, and reviewing the latest products to help make your project a success! PEX tube only accommodates up to 180 degrees. Connection Systems and Compatibility Plus: Learn everything you need to know about PEX supply pipe here. Thinking of Installing PEX? Metal fittings are required, however, where the fitting is exposed to UV light. Although connecting pipes and fittings of different materials is possible, you should only use fittings and pipes of similar material to achieve better connections. Moreover, the piping system should be routed in such a way as to avoid exposure to extreme temperatures. They are forced to incur additional repair costs that may not be covered by a warranty. PEX tubing sizes are denoted by CTS (copper tubing size), not OD (Outside Diameter) or ID (Inside Diameter). This contributes to PEX lasting longer than other materials that immediately crack. See this post to explore the disadvantages of using PEX. Maximum working pressure indicates highest anticipated operating pressure. Maximum Short Time Operating Temperature - for pipes without pressure. . Browse all. The heat from heat-producing tools such as blowtorches can damage plastic PEX pipes and fittings. Elongation (linear expansion): Typical elongation is anywhere from 1" to 2.5" for every 100ft of PEX pipe at a 10F temperature rise. While it wont lead to a burst pipe, PEX pipe will still freeze in below-freezing conditions. Lined Flexible Corrugated Polyethylene Pipe for Land Drainage Applications, F405-13 Standard Specification for Corrugated Polyethylene (PE) Pipe and Fittings (Withdrawn 2015), F667/F667M-16(2021) Standard Specification for 3 through 24 in. to Metal Insert and Plastic Insert Fittings . 4 PEX can be ground down and reused (does not include being used in the extrusion process); PE-RT can be ground down and reused (including being used in the extrusion process). 800-818-3201 Free Shipping on orders over $99 ship free Ship To: 11234 Thanks to PEXs compatible nature, you can make the transition slowly as your copper piping reaches the end of its lifespan. Manufacturers trust them as well; the warranties for plastic fittings are similar if not identical to those for their metal counterparts. Products Plumbing Pipe, Tube & Hose Fittings PEX Fittings R2668 LEGEND 461-254 3-Port Multi-Port Tee, 3/4 x 3/4 x 1/2 in Nominal, PEX End Style, Plastic, Import by: Legend Valve Although some consider PEX plastic fittings as inferior to and less durable than brass, this is not quite the case. PEX tubing and pipe are sold in coils and straight lengths. In temperate climates, where temperatures reach sub-zero levels, water in the pipes can freeze, causing the pipes to burst. PEX fittings are faster to install than copper. 93 0 obj <>stream 6. Use expansion/contraction devices when temperature changes occur in runs. When working with such products, care should be taken to ensure that they are not exposed to the flames. Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) is a synthetic plastic product manufactured from high or medium-density polyethylene. B137.0/B137.3; ULC S102.2-M88; NSF-PW; ASTM D1785. Their strength reduces at high temperatures. PEX-a pipe, which features the highest degree of crosslinking for the greatest flexibility and durability, will burst in the 800 psi (pounds per square inch) range, which is nearly double the minimum requirement of ASTM F876 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing. This minimizes the number of bend fittings that would have been used with copper or steel pipes. How does PEX pipe hold up against freezing temperatures? Poor quality brass resulting from high concentrations of zinc corrodes quickly and causes leaks in brass fittings.