The use of the latest technologies is typical today for almost all spheres of human activity. The system of household communications in this regard is no exception. And plastic pipes with cross-linked polyethylene coatings are increasingly being used to replace conventional pipes for supplying hot water to industrial and residential buildings, for heating systems and floor heating systems, and other needs.
Innovation in communications
Pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene - polymer tubes, characterized by increased resistance to high temperature conditions. In addition, they are difficult to corrode, less susceptible to chemical attack and abrasive. Polyethylene is called cross-linked due to the special chemical processes used in its production. They are based on a change in polyethylene structures at the molecular level, the formation of a three-dimensional network with wide cells from the links of molecules. The process itself was called cross-linking, the resulting product was called cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), and the product was called cross-linked polyethylene pipes. They arehave good flexibility and generally have proven themselves from many positive aspects.
Product types
Depending on the purpose and method of stitching, the following types of pipes are put into production:
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XLPE pipe Pipes for heating systems and for water supply systems. The maximum temperature that meets their operating standards is about 95 degrees above zero Celsius. In addition, such pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene in special circumstances during the day can operate at a temperature of 110 degrees above zero and withstand a pressure of 10 bar. The working diameter of such plastic pipes is from 16 to 33 millimeters. The sleeves and fittings for them are made of brass.
- Pipes for floor insulation and snow melting systems. Their task is to heat various external surfaces, including floors in residential buildings, etc. These pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene are designed for temperature conditions of the order of +90 degrees and working pressure up to 6 bar. They are produced with a diameter of 16-20 mm, brass sleeves and fittings.
- Another type of polyethylene pipes - with an aluminum layer. They are needed in heating systems, and are also used in the transportation of high temperature liquids. Each XLPE pipe withstands 95-degree temperatures and 10 bar pressure
Connection systems
Connection and installation of such pipes in pipeline systems with hot and cold water pressure, in systemscentral and underfloor heating is produced using fittings. They are usually made from tinned brass. Pipe fittings made of cross-linked polyethylene, unlike plastic ones, do not affect the quality of water, including drinking water. That is why they are so widely used in water networks.
Some cons
Speaking of the advantages of this or that equipment, we must not forget about its disadvantages. They also have cross-linked polyethylene pipes:
- First of all, it is low resistance to various active chemicals.
- High degree of oxygen transmission. As a result, when air enters heating systems, oxidation and corrosion processes occur at a fairly rapid pace. This, in turn, leads to the failure of boilers and radiators.
- The production of large diameter pipes is an expensive process. Therefore, they are usually produced with a diameter of no more than 32 mm.
- Rodents living in sewers often damage pipes, resulting in water leaks and emergencies.
And yet, despite some shortcomings, the use of such pipes brings undoubted benefits and benefits.
