Flexibility – PEX-A is the most flexible, allowing for it to be fastened by cold expansion, which allows the end to be fluted prior to inserting the fitting. PEX B
is not expandable
and you should never expand the end of a PEX-B pipe. Kink-Resistance – PEX-A has the greatest resistance, PEX-B the lowest.
Can you expand any PEX?
The flexibility of PEX also means it can expand and contract to its original size, making it highly resistant to damage from frozen water in the pipes. Certain types of PEX
can even expand up to three times the pipe’s diameter
.
Can you heat PEX to expand?
Three types of PEX exist: PEX-a, PEX-b and PEX-c. … PEX-a’s thermal memory refers to the ability to repair accidental kinks in the piping with a controlled heating source, such as a heat gun. PEX-a’s elastic memory means
it can expand up to three times its diameter
and then shrink back down to its original size.
Can expansion fitting be used on PEX B?
Lab tests have shown that while
you can create
an expansion connection with PEX-b, it will not hold as securely as a PEX-a connection. The stiffer quality of PEX-b pipe can create tiny cracks in the pipe wall when expanded, compromising the fitting connection.
Is all PEX pipe the same size?
PEX tubes range in diameter from 3/8-inch to 1-inch for residential applications. For adequate water flow, it’s a good idea to install 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch PEX for your main lines.
The standard when replacing old water supply lines with PEX is to use the same size
.
Why is PEX plumbing bad?
Potential chemical leaching is another downside of PEX piping. Due to its chemical composition, the PEX pipe
material may leach toxic chemicals
including bisphenol (BPA), MTBE, tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA), and others.
Why is PEX banned in California?
PEX was banned in California
due to some concerns about toxic materials leaking through the pipe and into water
. Through various national laboratory tests, PEX has proven to be completely safe and durable. It is now legal in California and even included in principal plumbing codes.
Is PEX expansion better than crimp?
PEX crimp equipment is
a lot more affordable than the expansion kits
. However, despite the pricing and form shortcomings, most plumbers prefer to work with expansion because installation is more efficient. There are fewer leaks, and it also seems to be more durable against extreme colds and frozen pipes, etc.
Is it OK to heat PEX to bend it?
Type A pex is the only one that can be unkinked by application of heat from a heat gun. But, it won’t improve the turn radius.
Each size and type of pex has a minimum turn radius
and you should be able to bend it to that without doing anything special.
Is it OK to bend PEX pipe?
PEX tubing can be bent slightly to accommodate curves. But
do not bend the tubing tighter than a radius that’s six times the size of the tube
. For example, a 1/2-inch tube can have a three inch bend radius. All 90-degree turns should have bend supports.
Is PEX A or PEX b better?
PEX-A is the most flexible of all PEX tubing types, has little or no coil memory and gives installer an ability to repair kinks with a heat gun. …
PEX-B is a clear winner in
terms of price vs. both other types.
What type of PEX is best for underground?
PEX-B
is the first choice for burying due to its higher bursting pressure and reduced issues with leached chemicals. Some individuals are wary of using any type of PEX tubing outdoors because it degrades under UV light.
Can I connect PEX A to PEX B?
There are two parts to this transition: the
PEX-A MIP adapter
and the PEX-B FIP adapter. These parts will thread together and allow you to join PEX-A to PEX-B. The PEX-A side will require an expansion ring while the PEX-B side requires the crimp ring.
Is PEX safe for drinking water 2020?
The inner pipe for drinking water is made of a plastic called cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). …
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.
What are the disadvantages of PEX?
- PEX may leach BPA and other toxic chemicals. …
- PEX is extremely sensitive to UV light. …
- PEX can be damaged by chemicals and pests. …
- PEX can’t be installed in high heat areas. …
- PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe.
What is the maximum temperature for PEX tubing?
2)
180°F
is the maximum fluid temperature for PEX tubing.
As the temperature increases the max operating pressure drops.
