High density polyethylene polymer is cross liked using three different methods. The pipes produced by all the three methods are used for different purposes as the material produced by different method is sensitive to certain chemicals. Of the three methods used, the one that uses silane is the one that is most suitable for domestic use. It is tested to resist chlorine which is present in the water. It meets the standards specified for the purpose.
It was first used in Europe in the 70s and a decade later gained popularity in the American market. Ever since its emergence it has replaced the use of copper pipes in the floor heating systems. The usage of PEX pipes is most suitable for the radiant heating systems as the material does not lose heat easily and repeated heating of the water is reduced. The pipes can endure a large range of temperature which makes it suitable for domestic water supply too. The capacity of high temperature has made it suitable for floor heating systems. It also conserves the heat and does not allow any kind of heat loss in transmission as is the case in the conventional copper pipes which were used prior to the introduction of the PEX pipes.
Some of the advantages that the PEX pipes have over the other conventional pipes are that it is very light in weight and it can be stored on spools. The shipping and handling charges are greatly reduced because of the comfortable storage options and light weight. A single length of pipe can be used as it is flexible and can bend over obstructions very easily without the requirement of a joint or an elbow. This reduces the requirement of fittings and probable leakage points which makes it convenient to use and the fear of frequent repairs has been eliminated.
The plumbing of the PEX pipes is comparatively easy and does not require soldering and hot torches. No material is used which is hazardous to the health. One of the major advantages that it has is that it does not corrode and no scales are formed as is the case in copper pipes. It can endure long term exposure to acidic water. Just as it can bear up very hot water it is also resistant to cold water. It does not break in freezing temperatures. The flexibility of the material is responsible for its power to endure the harsh temperature variations.
Author Resource:
PEX Install Group is the author of this article on PEX Tubing Installation .
Find more information about PEX Piping Guide here.
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