When did plumbers start using PEX?
PEX has been used Europe since the 1970s and in the United States since the 1980s, initially for radiant heating. Its market share increased as builders and consumers began to use it for residential water distribution in the 1990s. HUD studies helped demonstrate the performance and value of PEX.Sep 10, 2018
Who invented PEX piping?
Dr. Thomas EngelOriginally developed in 1968 by German inventor Dr. Thomas Engel, PEX first hit the European market in the early 1970s and later came to North America in the mid-1980s. Its incredible durability and cost-effectiveness quickly gained popularity with the residential construction market.Nov 13, 2020
Who owns PEX tubing?
MrPEX® Systems MrPEX® Systems is one of the leading North American system suppliers of residential and commercial radiant heating/cooling, snowmelt systems, and PEX-a domestic hot and cold water systems.Oct 7, 2015
When did they stop using PEX pipe?
PEX was banned in California until 2010, but it is still illegal in some local codes. For over 30 years, PEX has been used in the United States.Dec 3, 2020
How was PEX invented?
He worked as a dishwasher, drove a taxi, labored in a furniture factory and in construction. And then he began to experiment with polyethylene, which he had read about during his years as a POW. That led to his invention of Engel-method PEX.Sep 28, 2015
What is the most environmentally friendly piping?
PVC piping is one of the world's most sustainable products, making it ideal for long-term term use in underground infrastructure. It requires less energy and fewer resources to manufacture than old-technology materials, and its production creates virtually no waste.
Where is Apollo PEX made?
0:223:05Apollo PEX - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipTechnology was first developed in Europe. And has since come into use around the world for a varietyMoreTechnology was first developed in Europe. And has since come into use around the world for a variety of applications.
Where is PEX manufactured?
Among many other RWC products, SharkBite PEX tubing, EvoPEX™ systems and other core fittings are manufactured in RWC's Cullman, AL facility, which features high technology robotic equipment to manufacture these innovative products.Jul 8, 2019
Are all brands of PEX the same?
That's because by and large, all PEX pipes are very similar. They must all meet the same performance standards. There are some requirements that apply to all PEX pipe used for commercial and residential plumbing applications. Others apply to PEX used in specific systems or applications.Nov 6, 2020
Do mice chew PEX tubing?
Mice and rats will chew through anything they can, including plastic, so PEX tubing is at just as much risk as the plastic-coated wiring in a car or an HVAC unit. While all rodent damage can be expensive, if rodents chew through a home's PEX water pipes, the result can be disastrous.Oct 22, 2021
Is PEX OK for drinking water?
There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.Nov 9, 2011
What is wrong with PEX plumbing?
PEX piping has a maximum bend radius, which can lead to stress on the pipe caused by improper installation. In addition, extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation.
What did Engel do?
He worked as a dishwasher, drove a taxi, labored in a furniture factory and in construction. And then he began to experiment with polyethylene, which he had read about during his years as a POW. That led to his invention of Engel-method PEX.
Where is Engel's magnet spinning?
He had solved the permanent-magnet motor puzzle and wanted to give away his discovery because mankind needs affordable energy. His motor is spinning in Lucerne, Switzerland.
How to join copper pipes?
The oldest and most common method for joining copper piping is to solder pieces together using a torch. With an open flame there is always the risk of causing a fire in the surrounding structure, but PEX installation does not require a flame.
How long does PEX last?
LONGEVITY: The advantageous properties of PEX also make it a candidate for progressive replacement of metal and thermoplastic pipes, especially in long-life applications, because the expected lifetime of PEX pipes reaches 50 years.
What is PEX used for?
It can be formed into tubing, and is used in building services pipework systems, heating and cooling systems, domestic water piping, and high voltage electrical cables. PEX is also used for natural gas and offshore oil application, chemical transportation, and transportation of sewage and slurries.
Is PEX pipe more labor intensive than copper?
Installing PEX is much less labor-intensive than copper pipes, since there is no need to use torches to solder pipes together, or to use glue to attach pipes to fittings.
Can PEX pipes be used underground?
In the 2000’s, copper pipes as well as plastic PVC pipes are being replaced with PEX. It can be used for underground purposes as well.
Is PEX tubing used for drinking water?
PEX tubing has widely replaced copper in plumbing application. One estimate states that residential use of PEX for delivering drinking water to home fauce ts has increased by 40% annually, and there is evidence that will become the dominant technology for carrying water in homes and businesses in the next decade. It is accepted by national organizations like the Habitat for Humanity for constructing homes.
Can PEX run straight?
PEX can run straight from a distribution point to an outlet fixture without cutting or splicing the pipe. This reduces the need for potentially weak and costly joints and reduces the drop in pressure due to turbulence induced at transitions.
What is XLPE insulation?
It is the most common polymeric insulation material. The acronym XLPE is commonly used to denote cross-linked polyethylene insulation. XLPE automotive duct. Automotive ducts and housings: PEX also referred to as XLPE is widely used in the aftermarket automotive industry for cold air intake systems and filter housings.
What is PEX pipe made of?
Almost all PEX used for pipe and tubing is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). PEX contains cross-linked bonds in the polymer structure, changing the thermoplastic to a thermoset. Cross-linking is accomplished during or after the extrusion of the tubing.
How long does PEX last?
The advantageous properties of PEX also make it a candidate for progressive replacement of metal and thermoplastic pipes, especially in long-life applications, because the expected lifetime of PEX pipes reaches 50 years. Suitable for hot and cold pipes.
What is the most common cell classification for PEX pipes?
Cell classifications for PEX include 0006, 0008, 1006, 1008, 3006, 3008, 5006 and 5008, the most common being 5006.
Why was PEX banned in California?
Several groups blocked adoption of PEX for concerns about chemicals getting into the water, either from chemicals outside the pipes, or from chemicals inside the pipes such as methyl tertiary butyl ether and tertiary butyl alcohol.
When was PEX used in heating?
Initially PEX tubing was the most popular way to transport water in hydronic radiant heating systems, and it was used first in hydronic systems from the 1960s onwards. Hydronic systems circulate water from a boiler or heater to places in the house needing heat, such as baseboard heaters or radiators.
What is the best material for hip replacement?
Artificial joints: Highly cross-linked polyethylene is used in artificial joints as a wear-resistant material. Cross-linked polyethylene is preferred in hip replacement because of its resistance to abrasive wear.
How long does PEX tubing last?
Fact: The life span of PEX tubing can vary based on frequency of use, water quality and water temperature and has an average life expectancy of 40-50 years.
When was PEX tubing invented?
Fact: PEX Tubing was developed and first used in Europe in the 1960’s. This product entered US market 30 years ago and has been growing in popularity ever since. During these years, tubing has been installed in millions of houses, commercial and industrial buildings, and has been sufficiently tested by many years of continuous use. ...
Is PEX tubing hard to install?
Myth: PEX Tubing is hard to install. Fact: In comparison to installing other pipe materials, such as copper, installation of PEX does not require sweat connections and can often be installed without hiring a professional plumber or HVAC technician.
Is PEX tubing allowed in all 50 states?
Fact: In 2010, California became the last state to approve the use of PEX tubing. Today, PEX tubing is allowed to be installed within all 50 states. It is recommended to contact local municipality prior to installation, since installation guidelines and codes may vary.
Is PEX tubing reliable?
Myth: PEX Tubing is not reliable. Fact: PEX has been extensively used in Europe and USA, giving it a 50 year track record of strong performance and reliability. Rapid growth of PEX installations in the US over the past 2 decades serves as an indicator that the product is becoming widely accepted by home owners and contractors alike.
Is PEX tubing expensive?
Myth : PEX tubing is expensive. Fact: With today’s high copper prices, the cost of PEX tubing amounts to less than 10% of the cost of copper. Using PEX tubing comes out to be less expensive even after taking into consideration the fact that more tubing is needed when laying a radiant heating floor pattern.
What is the ASTM F876?
The most common standards are the ASTM F876 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing that covers the materials, dimensions and performance for the pipe , as well as the ASTM F877 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution Systems that covers the requirements, test methods, and marking methods for the PEX components.
What is the PEX C method?
PEX-c uses an electron beam to change the molecular structure of the pipe after the extrusion process. The PEX-c method requires multiple passes under the beam to reach a degree of crosslinking of 70 to 75 percent.
Why is it important to stick with the same manufacturer for PEX fittings?
When installing PEX pipe and fittings, it is important to stick with the same manufacturer for all components. Mixing different pipe and fittings from different manufacturers can limit the warranty and add confusion/frustration if there is a need for service.
How is PEX B crosslinked?
PEX-b is crosslinked after the extrusion process by placing the pipe in a hot-water bath or steam sauna. The degree of crosslinking for PEX-b is typically around 65 to 70 percent. Because this method is not as evenly crosslinked as PEX-a, it is a stiffer product.
What is PEX piping?
If you specialize in residential applications, you’re most likely familiar with crosslinked polyethylene, or PEX — the flexible, durable, plastic piping system that’s become increasingly popular in new-home construction. But if you’re in the commercial space where PEX is still relatively new, you might not be aware of the product’s variations ...
Why is crosslinking important?
Crosslinking is important because the higher the degree of crosslinking, the greater the flexibility, durability and other benefits of the pipe.
When was PEX first used?
A little background first: PEX was invented in 1968, and by the 1970s, it was being used throughout Europe for water distribution systems. PEX was brought to North America in the mid-1980s for use in residential radiant floor heating applications. By the mid-1990s, it was being used for residential potable plumbing as well.
What type of fittings are used for PEX?
Hundreds of types of fittings, usually brass, are available for connecting PEX to existing copper or steel pipes, and for making connections to fixtures. Fittings are also available for connecting pipes of different sizes. The following five methods are used for making the connections watertight. Photo: amazon.com.
What is PEX tubing?
Choose the tubing best suited to your needs: PEX-A is manufactured using peroxide. This type of PEX is the most flexible of the three types and is suitable for use in all home water-supply plumbing needs.
What color is PEX?
Water flows silently through PEX, eliminating the “water hammer” noise associated with metal piping. Color-coding (red and blue) make it simple to distinguish hot and cold supply lines. PEX can be connected to existing metal supply lines with the correct fittings.
What is the advantage of PEX pipe?
PEX has a distinct advantage over these materials because of its flexibility, which allows one end of PEX pipe to connect to a PEX manifold (the main water control system) and then wind through walls and floors—uninterrupted—all the way to an individual fixture.
What type of PEX pipe is used for hot water?
Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
How long is a PEX pipe?
PEX is available in a variety of lengths, from short 10-foot pieces (for small repairs) to rolls over 500 feet long, which are used to install a home’s entire water supply system. PEX pipe ranges from 3/8- to 1-inch in diameter and its color-coding makes it a snap to identify what a specific pipe is used for. Although there are three types of PEX (see Label Lingo, below), the different colors don’t connote the distinctions; they simply make it easy for the installer to identify which lines carry hot water and which carry cold.
What is PEX pipe?
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), a type of flexible plastic, is currently replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel as water supply lines in both new construction and remodeling projects. You’ve probably seen rolls of blue and red PEX pipe in the plumbing aisle of your local home improvement store, but might not know that this colorful tubing now makes it possible for enthusiastic DIYers to replace their own leaky water lines instead of calling a pro. Read on to learn more about PEX—what it is, where it can be used, and all the pros and cons of this popular plumbing material.
