Fiberglass for heating. Characteristics of polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass

To improve the mechanical qualities and performance characteristics of polypropylene pipes, reinforcement is used. The reinforced polypropylene pipe retains all the positive qualities of a plastic product and acquires additional advantages - rigidity, resistance to temperature and pressure. Reinforce polypropylene with fiberglass or aluminum. Each type of pipe has its own advantages, subtleties of installation, and operating features.

Polypropylene is an organic polymer that is used to make safe, cheap (compared to metal) pipes with a long service life. A significant disadvantage of pipelines made of simple polypropylene is their sagging and deformation with an increase in the temperature of the transported liquid.

The second quality of polypropylene, which creates problems in the operation of pipelines, is their linear (in length) expansion during operation in heating or hot water supply. Pipe extension reaches 10 cm per 1 linear meter and requires the installation of compensators.

With open installation, this worsens the aesthetics, adds cost. When closed, the circulation of the pipeline can cause the destruction of the plaster.

Reinforcement is the addition of a material reinforcing polypropylene to the pipe wall: aluminum or fiberglass.

Reinforcement of plastic materials with fiberglass is the latest development in this area and takes into account the disadvantages of metal reinforcement. An additional inner layer stabilizes the ductile organics, making the pipes more durable.

Reinforced plastic pipelines approach the capabilities of metal pipelines, while retaining all the advantages of an organic polymer.

Reinforced polypropylene pipe has the following qualities:

remains inert to chemical attack;
does not emit harmful substances, suitable for use in the food industry;
retains the smoothness of the inner wall, does not “overgrow” with precipitation and scale;
are dielectrics, have low noise and thermal conductivity;
has a price lower than metal products;
is light in weight, easy to transport;
the coefficient of linear expansion is reduced by 5 times in comparison with conventional polypropylene;
withstands more significant temperature and power loads;
remains available for self-assembly.

Polypropylene is obtained from oil cracking products by subsequent polymerization in the presence of catalysts. It occurs when heated under high pressure.

As a result of polymerization, a mass is obtained from which plastic products are made, including polypropylene pipes reinforced with glass fiber, which are widely used in heating and hot water supply.

With further an increase in pressure and temperature leads to a more active polymerization of the composition, leading to the adhesion of chains of molecules to each other, creating a semblance of a crystal lattice. This leads to further hardening of the material.

Why reinforced polypropylene is needed for heating

However, polypropylene as a raw material for the production of pipes has its own characteristics. in natural conditions. Pipelines for heating systems from it can sag during operation.

The second negative feature of polypropylene (PP) is its poor resistance to ultraviolet radiation. Under the influence of ultraviolet radiation, a polypropylene water pipe begins to collapse. This effect can be largely neutralized by introducing up to 2% carbon black into the composition of the plastic mass.

But such an impact is often not enough, so the strengthening of the mechanical characteristics is additionally carried out by reinforcing the pipes.

This is done as follows:

First of all, the base for the final product is made. It controls the inner diameter parameter.
During the production of the outer surface of the product, a layer of glass fibers is wound. They are characterized by high longitudinal strength.
Further, the resulting semi-finished product is re-extruded, in which an outer layer of the same polypropylene is applied over the fiberglass.

The mechanical and thermal characteristics of polypropylene pipes reinforced with glass fiber are significantly higher than those of non-reinforced ones.

Consider the characteristics and structure

Therefore, it seems more appropriate to use glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes for hot water. Another thing, when it comes to hot water supply, it is more important to have reliable oxygen protection, because oxidation products can hardly be considered beneficial to humans.

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Before purchasing polypropylene pipes for plumbing, you need to carefully familiarize yourself with the main properties of the components in order to make a qualified choice.

Consider the main manufacturers

The marking in our case is applied directly to the outer surface of the product and includes the following data in order of location:

Logo and trademark of the manufacturer.
The designation of the material of manufacture. The letter "B" denotes a polypropylene copolymer, "H" - a homopolymer, "R" - a random copolymer. Such designations are not accepted by all manufacturers, but the designation "PP" is always applied when pipes are made of polypropylene.
The value of the nominal pressure for this type of product is referred to as "PN 20 (or 25)".
The size of the pipe is indicated by the outer diameter and wall thickness, for example "25x2.8" - that is, in the same format as metal water and gas pipeline counterparts.
Operating conditions class: "Class 2".
The maximum allowable working pressure is indicated: "5/1 MPa".
The last in the list of data is the regulatory document in accordance with which the products are manufactured: GOST or technical specifications.

The presence of a blue or red stripe along the outer surface naturally indicates applicability for hot water or cold water supply.

The color of products from any manufacturer is not a defining feature and may vary. The main colors used are white, grey, green and black.

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After removing the mating parts from the bushings, they are connected by pressing with hands. Turning around the axis after the connection is unacceptable, as it leads to the marriage of the connection. The point is that the surface of the parts is melted to a certain depth, but they do not lose hardness.

The process is simple, but requires attention and concentration. If you decide to do the installation yourself, it is advisable to take a few extra fittings and solder several test joints.

Advantages and disadvantages of polypropylene pipes

The main positive characteristics include the following points:

High quality of the internal surface of the products, as a result of which they practically do not have hydraulic resistance.
Chemical resistance of the material.
Significant margin of safety (almost twice) when used in water pipes.
The absence of any precipitation on the walls.
Hygiene.

At the same time, there are also disadvantages:

The need to use additional equipment during installation in the form of various soldering irons.
Difficulty in the repair and maintenance of plumbing systems, since the connections in them are one-piece.
The need for constant temperature control, since the material can withstand no more than 95 degrees.

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Polypropylene pipe reinforced with fiberglass is produced in accordance with GOST 32415-2012.

Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass appeared later than analogues with aluminum foil. But they rapidly began to gain popularity in the field of plumbing during the installation of water supply and heating systems.

The technical standards of this type of equipment are in many ways superior to non-reinforced PP pipes and successfully compete with aluminum-reinforced ones.

Design and characteristics

Glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes are marked PPR-FB-PPR or PPR/PPR-GF/PPR, where the marking FB (fiber fiber) and GF - glass fiber means the presence of fiberglass, and PPR is a brand of universal polypropylene, successfully used in heating and hot water systems.

According to the marking, the pipes are three-layer products: polypropylene - glass fiber - polypropylene.

But due to the fact that they are produced using co-extrusion technology (combining jets of different materials into a single integral structure almost at the molecular level), layers are not glued, as, for example, with aluminum reinforcement.

That is, with their multilayer the equipment is homogeneous and does not have the ability to delaminate.

Due to this design, reinforced with fiberglass PP pipes are tougher than simple polypropylene. This somewhat complicates the installation procedure, but reduces the risk of sagging and allows the use of samples of a smaller diameter for heating and plumbing systems.

Another nuance - the rigidity of the inner layer contributes significant reduction in linear expansion characteristics for polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass. This is one of the reasons why fiberglass reinforced PP pipes are used in heating systems.

The thickness and amount of the reinforcing composition is calculated in accordance with GOST standards. Fiberglass elements do not penetrate either the outer layer, where they would interfere with welding joints, or the inner layer, which would lead to a violation of sanitary standards. The absence of metal eliminates the appearance of hardness salts– means, all connections become literally monolithic.

In the manufacture of fiberglass, they are dyed in different colors, but they are not an indicator of any operational or technical characteristics. In terms of standard sizes, they correspond to other types of reinforced PP pipes., which allows the use of standard fittings and the replacement of individual sections of pipelines from the material of the old sample.

Advantages and disadvantages

Of the design flaws of fiber-reinforced propylene pipes, it can only be noted that, compared with models reinforced with aluminum, their expansion coefficient is slightly higher - by 5-6%.

But compared to non-reinforced, it is three times lower, by 75%, which allows you to increase the distance between the fasteners and reduce the cost of installation. As well as:

They are much thinner than non-reinforced PP pipes, which is very important when they are carried in walls, while the conductivity of the coolant is higher by 20%.
A layer of fiberglass will not allow the pipeline to break through, which ensures wear resistance and increased durability - up to 50 years.
The strength and tightness of the joints does not require regular maintenance.

Due to good insulating properties no condensation and heat loss is minimal.
The slight thermal expansion minimizes the risk of damage.
In addition, during installation, they do not require calibration and stripping, which is necessary for pipes reinforced with aluminum foil.
The thermal conductivity corresponds to that of conventional PP pipes and is lower than that of aluminum reinforced pipes.
Cases of delamination of AL polypropylene products are known, which is excluded during coextrusion with glass fiber.
All materials are non-toxic and completely harmless.
Light weight, easy to install. They are connected in any way - socket or butt soldering, threaded or flanged connection.
Chemical resistance allows you to withstand even low-quality coolant.
High permeability due to the smooth inner surface, respectively, and the absence of deposits.
Pipes flexible, abrasion-resistant and quiet, are pressure resistant.
Withstand temperature values in the range of -10 - +95 Celsius.
When reaching and even exceeding critical levels FB pipe may expand and sag, but will not burst.

Criterias of choice

Looking at the marking of the pipe, you can immediately understand for what purposes it is intended, since the abbreviation PN means "nominal pressure", and the numbers - its working indicator.

PN-10 with a wall of 1.9 - 10 mm - designed for temperatures up to 45 degrees, that is, they are applicable only in cold water supply systems. Thin-walled, withstand pressure up to 1 MPa or 10 atm. Can be used for arranging a warm floor, but taking into account the temperature regime. Diameter inside and outside - 16.2 - 90 mm, 20 - 110 mm.

PN-20 with a wall of 16 - 18.4 mm are the most in demand, as they are almost universal. Suitable for cold water supply, heating, floor heating equipment. Withstand up to 95 Celsius and a pressure of 20 atmospheres. They have excellent throughput used in private and comfortable homes, public institutions, enterprises. Diameter inside and outside - 10.6 - 73.2 mm, 16 - 110 mm.

PN-25 with a wall of 4 - 13.3 mm - designed for arranging risers, heating and water supply systems, warm floors, for industrial purposes. Working pressure - 25 atmospheres, temperature - 95 degrees. Not subject to thermal deformation. Diameter inside and outside - 13.2 - 50 mm, 21.2 - 77.9 mm.

When choosing polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass for mounting a heating system you need to build on your own requirements and product specifications:

Indications of the maximum temperature;
Rated pressure;
Diameter.

Accordingly, the most suitable polypropylene pipes with fiberglass for heating are PN-20 and PN-25 with d 16 - 40 mm, for warm floors - all three types. For making connections to radiators, models with a diameter of 20 to 24 mm are optimal. When installing smaller pipes, the internal seam formed during soldering can become an obstacle to the free flow of water.

Based on the above, we can conclude that a propylene pipeline with a GF layer - almost ideal option not only for sewerage or plumbing, but also for the heating system.

Besides fiberglass is an anti-diffusion barrier preventing oxygen from entering. Diffusion is fraught with acceleration of corrosion processes of all metal equipment - pumps, boilers, etc.

This happens especially quickly in water systems with high temperatures - hot water supply, heating.

Non-reinforced PP pipes cannot boast of such a property. According to many criteria, they are significantly inferior to fiber-reinforced ones, especially with regard to heating systems - polypropylene pipes without reinforcement are thicker, weaker, prone to deformation.

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What is a reinforced pipe

With open installation, this worsens the aesthetics, adds cost. When closed, the circulation of the pipeline can cause the destruction of the plaster.

Reinforcement is the addition of a material reinforcing polypropylene to the pipe wall: aluminum or fiberglass.

Reinforced plastic pipelines approach the capabilities of metal pipelines, while retaining all the advantages of an organic polymer.

Reinforced polypropylene pipe has the following qualities:

remains inert to chemical attack;
does not emit harmful substances, suitable for use in the food industry;
retains the smoothness of the inner wall, does not “overgrow” with precipitation and scale;
are dielectrics, have low noise and thermal conductivity;
has a price lower than metal products;
is light in weight, easy to transport;
the coefficient of linear expansion is reduced by 5 times in comparison with conventional polypropylene;
withstands more significant temperature and power loads;
remains available for self-assembly.

Scope of application

Polypropylene reinforced pipes are suitable for installation:

heating systems in centralized heating networks, private houses;
hot water pipelines;
industrial pipelines for the transportation of aggressive substances and food liquids (without heating).

The main consumer of polypropylene reinforced pipes is a private homeowner. Plastic products best meet the needs and capabilities of consumers. They retain the maximum service life in the conditions of autonomous heating communications, are inexpensive, easily transportable, available for self-assembly, maintenance, and repair.

Note! Polypropylene pipes (even reinforced ones) are not recommended to be installed in central heating systems in cold regions. A significant temperature difference, high loads adversely affect the durability of plastic communications.

Types of reinforcement for polypropylene pipes

There are 2 types of reinforcement of plastic products:

Reinforcement with aluminum foil.
Fiberglass reinforcement.

metal reinforcement

The essence of aluminum reinforcement is that aluminum foil is embedded in the wall of a polypropylene pipe. The edges of the foil are sealed together (in cheap products this can be done with an overlap, without fixing).

The wall of the reinforced pipe in the section is a three-layer structure, where the metal core is covered by the inner and outer layers of polypropylene.

Types of reinforcement of polypropylene with aluminum:

the foil can be perforated (with holes over the entire area) or solid;
the location can be strictly in the middle of the thickness or closer to the outer edge;
the pipe wall can be three-layer or five-layer.

The five-layer wall contains additional layers of glue (adhesive) between the metal and plastic. Product marking: PP-RCT-AL-PPR (with additional layer) or PP-AL-PPR (without additions).

fiberglass reinforcement

Fiberglass reinforcement looks different. Fiberglass, by itself, is not a solid "piece" of material, but rather disparate fibers. Fiberglass fiber layer is mixed with polypropylene and also added inside the pipe.

Unlike metal reinforcement, here the wall is a monolithic system with embedded fibers. Polypropylene pipes with fiberglass are called fiberglass. Product marking: PPR-FB-PPR.

Comparative characteristics of reinforced products

Having almost the same operational capabilities, fiberglass pipes do not need a special connection method. When installing plastic with an aluminum layer inside, this layer should be removed before welding.

The metal insert mechanically separates the polymer, which during operation can cause destruction and leakage of communications. Qualitatively welding such products for a non-professional is a difficult task.

Fiberglass products are welded in a classic way. You can use any method of connecting simple polypropylene pipes without changing the algorithm of work. The solidity of the joints is the main advantage of fiberglass over aluminum. According to the coefficient of linear expansion, fiberglass loses to metal about 6%.

Note! Polypropylene pipelines with aluminum reinforcement are the most vulnerable at the junctions. This requires constant monitoring during their maintenance and operation.

Technical parameters of operation

Even plastic materials reinforced with an additional layer have limitations in operating conditions. They can be used for cold, hot water supply and for the installation of a heating system that runs on water. Such materials are not suitable for steam heating circuits.

The technical capabilities of the product are encrypted in its labeling. The labeling of the composition of the material is given above. Imported pipes may have the following indications of the material:

Stabi - aluminum;
Fiber - fiberglass.

The diameter marking simultaneously indicates the maximum withstand pressure in kgf / sq. cm.

Characteristics and use:

PN 10. The maximum allowable temperature is up to 45 degrees. Used for the installation of a cold water pipeline and a floor heating device.
PN 16. Temperature - 60 degrees, pressure 16 atmospheres. It is rarely used in the equipment of private houses. Purpose - cold and hot (limited) water supply.
PN 20. Hot water supply. The allowed temperature threshold is up to 95 degrees, the recommended 80 degrees. The maximum pressure is 20 atm.
PN 25 (reinforced). Installation of heating systems of any level. Temperature 95 degrees, pressure 25 atm.

Installation of reinforced polypropylene pipes

Installation of reinforced pipes is no different from welding products from simple polypropylene.

Apply:

chemical bonding (cold welding);
threaded connections;
diffusion welding.

The best fastening of parts is achieved by high-quality diffusion welding.

For products reinforced with aluminum foil, the classic welding algorithm includes the stage of cleaning the welded pipe section from metal. To do this, use a special tool - a shaver.

Algorithm for welding polypropylene pipes:

Preparatory: products are cut to size, cleaned, degreased. The welding machine is heated to 260 degrees (do not turn off in operation).
Heating: the pipe is inserted into the sleeve of the welder, the fitting is placed on the mandrel. They do this at the same time, with sufficient physical effort, but without scrolling.
Connection: both parts are simultaneously removed from the apparatus and connected with force. During the hardening of the plastic, the parts are fixed motionless.

The process of installing polypropylene pipes is not complicated, but it requires practical skills.

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Scopes of polypropylene pipes

Pipes made of this polymer, as well as fittings, tees, bends and couplings, are used in the arrangement of water supply networks (hot and cold water supply);
Sewer pipes made of polypropylene stand apart;
Heating systems of any type.

The use of polypropylene pipes in heating networks puts forward certain requirements for their design. These additional requirements are related to the operating conditions of such pipelines. As you know, the operating temperature of heating networks is somewhat different from the operating temperature, even in hot water networks.

Why reinforced pipes are used in heating systems

Reinforced polypropylene pipes for heating - the characteristics of which, allow them to be used for this, have a low coefficient of thermal expansion.

Therefore, for use in heating systems, such pipes must have a special design. This design differs from simple pipes in that a reinforcing layer is laid between two layers of plastic.

Types of reinforced polypropylene pipes

The reinforcing layer is fiberglass or aluminum foil. Both types are suitable for heating. Although, it is worth noting that fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene pipes for heating have large values of thermal expansion coefficient.

Advantages of polypropylene pipes

Polypropylene reinforced pipes for heating have a number of advantages compared to pipelines made of other materials:

Long service life.
Manufacturers of polypropylene systems give a guarantee on their products. The warranty period for such materials is usually 10-15 years. But in practice, polypropylene pipelines can easily withstand three or four warranty periods of operation.

Corrosion resistance.
Polypropylene reinforced pipe for heating is not subject to corrosion, regardless of the type of coolant that is used and the type of boiler - electric or gas for heating).
With corrosion damage to the inner walls of the pipes, areas are formed with difficult passage of the coolant through the system, which negatively affects the performance.

Chemical inertness.
Water and other coolants are chemicals that, under certain conditions, enter into various chemical reactions. If the material from which the pipeline is assembled is chemically active when in contact with the coolant substance, then its integrity is violated.

Ease of connection and installation.
You can easily install heating using polypropylene pipes with your own hands. For such work, you will need a minimum of special tools and equipment. No special skills or qualifications are required.

Connection strength.
When joining two polypropylene elements, a very strong seam or joint is formed due to the fact that the polymer melts during joining and the joint becomes monolithic.

Material gas tightness.
The walls of polypropylene pipes are absolutely impervious to oxygen and other atmospheric gases, which protects metal elements of heating systems from rust, oxidation and corrosion.

economy.
The price of polypropylene pipes is lower than copper and metal-plastic pipes.

Material strength.
The polymer from which the pipes are made has good mechanical strength and hardness.

Installation of polypropylene pipes

The process of welding or soldering these pipes is simple and efficient. Below is a step-by-step instruction for carrying out such work.

First you need to prepare a set of standard soldering tools. Ready-made kits are available for sale. How they look is shown in the photo below.

This set includes the following tools:

Welding machine - soldering iron-heater for soldering the socket;
Nozzles for pipes;
Nippers or a special pipe cutter;
Shaver (use it to remove aluminum foil);
Bevel remover.

Important!
For the installation of polypropylene pipes, despite the ease and simplicity of processing and connecting the material, improvised means cannot be used.
For a quality connection, you need to use special tools.

The process of "welding" works

The parts are connected to each other in the following way. The edges of the two parts are heated until the polymer softens and are tightly connected to each other. At the junction, the molten polymer forms a monolithic joint due to the mutual penetration of material molecules between the parts to be joined.

Preliminary preparation

Pipes are measured and cut;

A chamfer is removed from the outer edge;

The joint is cleaned and degreased.

Soldering iron preparation

The welding machine is fixed on a stand;

The heater is turned on;
The soldering iron heats up to 260°C.
Two parts are taken that were previously prepared for connection;
One part is mounted on a mandrel (a special cone-shaped metal cylinder);
Another part is inserted into the sleeve;

Direct soldering process

The parts are heated in the heater (the heating time is determined according to the tables depending on the wall thickness and type of the part);
Parts are simultaneously removed from the heater;
The removed parts are quickly joined to each other without scrolling along the longitudinal axis (two parts should not be “screwed” into one another).

Heating system installation

Polypropylene pipes (more precisely, welded polymeric joints) do not require regular maintenance (unlike threaded joints of steel pipes and metal valves and fittings). Therefore, it becomes possible to lay the main heating pipes inside the walls by closed laying.

It is clear that such a system is established for a long time. Therefore, before proceeding with the direct work related to installation, it is necessary to develop a thorough plan, as well as a piping scheme with reference to specific rooms and features of walls and ceilings in buildings.

Such a preliminary plan is also useful in minimizing the process of connecting parts to each other “on the fly”. It is best to connect a large number of parts to each other on a special mounting table, and in the end, simply connect them to each other.

If the pipes are not laid inside the walls, then they are attached to the walls with clamps.

Such fastening is carried out in the following order:

The clamp is screwed to the wall with a screw;
A pipe is inserted into the clamp mount.

Important!
It must be remembered that polypropylene pipes cannot be directly connected to the nozzles of heating gas boilers for a private house.
For connection, it is necessary to take pieces of a metal pipe 50 cm long and of a suitable diameter, and only then connect them to the boiler nozzles.

Video showing the installation of polypropylene pipelines:

findings

Polypropylene heating systems have proven themselves in operation. They are reliable and easy to install, install and maintain. Cheapness and availability makes them quite popular for use in gas or electric heating installations.

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Pros and cons of polypropylene products

Advantages of conventional polypropylene (PPR) pipes:

low cost - the price of such products is much less than products from metals and alloys;
strength;
light weight - polymer products are much lighter than similar metal products;
resistance to low temperatures;
chemical neutrality to most aggressive media - acids, alkalis, oil and gas products, salt solutions;
no risk of corrosion.

Disadvantages of simple pipes:

A small value of the upper temperature threshold - polypropylene pipes begin to melt when they reach 175 ° C, and soften already when the temperature in the system rises to 130-140 ° C. At first glance, this should not be a problem, since the operating temperature in the heat supply system is characterized by values of 90-95°C; however, when two parameters are combined - high pressure and high operating temperature - the damage received by the pipes from the coolant becomes more significant, therefore, the risk of damage to the pipes increases.
The tendency to expand significantly with increasing thermal load. To a greater extent, this applies to the length of products: the length of the pipes increases greatly, wavy lines appear on the surface. This is not only ugly, but also poses a threat of depressurization of the circuit or damage to wall or floor coverings, up to cracking of brittle materials - plaster or cement.

This problem is not solved by the usual methods, even the installation of compensators is not quite effective. The most logical solution is to use fiberglass reinforced plastic pipes. Characterized by all the positive properties of macromolecular compounds, and in addition by increased resistance to high temperatures, these pipes can be used in almost any heating circuits and hot water supply systems.

Comparison of pipes reinforced with fiberglass and aluminum foil

To strengthen plastic pipes and give them thermal stability, two types of reinforcement are used:

aluminum foil;
fiberglass.

In this case, an aluminum plate can be used in various versions: in perforated or solid form, act as an outer coating or be located in the middle of products, between polymer layers. Fiberglass is placed without fail inside reinforced plastic pipes.

It should also be noted that aluminum reinforcement allows the product to withstand more pressure within the system, so if the working pressure is not known or too high, this is the best option.

Characteristics of foil-reinforced pipes (designated PPR-AL-PPR):

increased rigidity of products, resistance to mechanical stress and all types of deformation;
thickness of the reinforcing metal layer - 0.1-0.5 mm (varies depending on the size of the pipe section);
the method of joining aluminum and plastic is glue, the quality of which determines the quality of products;
excellent tightness that does not decrease over time.

The installation of pipes with an aluminum layer is associated with some technological difficulties: before soldering or welding individual elements, the metal layer at the ends must be cleaned. Failure to comply with this recommendation will lead to a rapid loss of structural integrity - due, first of all, to the delamination of the polymer and metal during heat treatment, and secondly, due to electrochemical damage to aluminum.

Against the background of the problems listed above, polypropylene pipes with fiberglass look like a more acceptable solution:

the reinforcing material is similar in nature and characteristics to the base polymer;
before welding or soldering, there is no need to clean the ends;
during the heat treatment process, the glass fiber and the alloy not only do not delaminate, but, on the contrary, form a stronger connection.

Based on this, a fiberglass reinforced pipe is in most cases an ideal solution for the design of pipelines of various technological directions.

Characteristics of fiberglass reinforced products

As you might guess, such products have three layers: two polypropylene and one reinforcing, consisting of the same material mixed with fiber fibers (fiberglass). Due to the almost identical composition, such a three-layer structure is almost equivalent to a monolithic one.

Marking of glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes - PPR-FB-PPR (that is, polypropylene-fiber-polypropylene). See also: "What does the marking of polypropylene pipes mean - reading features."

Characteristics of glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes:

complete absence of the threat of corrosion;
remarkable smoothness of the inner surface of the products, which resists the accumulation of deposits and, as a result, the occurrence of blockages;
increased mechanical strength of products;
no threat of longitudinal or transverse deformation with an increase in the internal temperature of the system;
chemical and biological neutrality - both to aggressive environments and to waste products;
low hydraulic resistance, therefore, the value of pressure losses is reduced to a minimum;
good noise reduction;
do not affect the properties of the supplied water in any way, therefore, they are absolutely safe for human health;
long service life - with proper installation and operation - at least 50 years.

Despite the attractive characteristics of fiberglass-reinforced PPR pipes, they are inferior to products with aluminum in two respects (read also: “Types of PPR pipes and their characteristics”). Firstly, they are able to withstand less internal pressure in the system. Secondly, due to the lower rigidity for sections of pipes or pipelines from 1.5 m, it is necessary to use additional fastening fittings, otherwise they will sag and, as a result, the circuit will begin to deform, and this will create a threat of depressurization. See also: "Characteristics of reinforced polypropylene pipes - types and advantages."

With regard to the dimensional characteristics of glass fiber reinforced pipes, the following diameters are most popular:

up to 17 mm - used for underfloor heating;
up to 20 mm - for domestic hot water pipes;
20-25 mm - such pipes with fiberglass are used for heating in common areas and when installing sewer risers.

To fix pipes of smaller diameter, plastic clips are enough; for products of large sections, clamps must be used.

Installation of pipes with fiberglass

The connection of such products is carried out in the same way as ordinary plastic pipes.

There are three ways to fasten products:

With threaded fittings.
With the use of cold welding (that is, special glue).
Thermal welding (soldering).

The first option is produced as follows: the end of the pipe is pulled onto the fitting of the connecting element and is crimped in a circle with a mounting nut. The connection in terms of reliability (strength and tightness) is not inferior to the third method, it is permissible to use it even when designing pressure-type pipelines. The only drawback is that with excessive force when tightening the mounting nut, it can simply burst.

In the case of cold welding, the adhesive used ensures the speed of creating a joint, but not reliability. During installation, an adhesive composition is applied to the inner surface of the polypropylene coupling, then the end of the pipe to be connected is inserted there; the connection is held motionless for some time so that the glue has time to harden.

When welding using a welding machine, the surfaces of the ends of pipes and couplings are heated; after joining, they form a single polymer mass. Such a connection is the most durable and tight.

In general, the use of pipes reinforced with fiberglass is quite justified, convenient and profitable from an economic point of view.

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Features of reinforced polypropylene pipes

Advantages of reinforced polypropylene pipes

Disadvantages of polypropylene pipes

Sun rays negatively affect the structure of polymers, so polypropylene pipes cannot be used in open space
linear expansion polymer reinforced pipes 2 times the expansion of metal pipes

In this regard, reinforced polypropylene pipes are used in the system hot water supply. They are produced by double co-extrusion. A layer of thermoplastic polymer is applied to the reinforcing frame under high pressure from the outside and inside. In air, the plastic hardens, resulting in a strong bond with a solid frame.

This applies to all types of polymers, and PVC, and polypropylene and other varieties. However, the technological properties of reinforcing pipes vary considerably. It depends on what material it is made of. reinforcing frame. Most often, either aluminum foil or fiberglass is used as a frame. Aluminum reinforced pipes have less thermal expansion. The diffusion barrier prevents the penetration of free oxygen through the walls of the pipes, respectively, calcium does not settle, and, therefore, the walls of the boiler and radiators do not oxidize.

Glass fiber reinforced pipes (PPR-FB-PPR) have glass fiber strands soldered into polypropylene as a carcass. These are three-layer structures consisting of an outer layer of polypropylene, a reinforcing layer of fiberglass and an inner layer of polypropylene. As a result of extrusion, all three layers are sintered into a single skin and form a very strong pipe body. Such pipes more plastic than pipes reinforced with aluminum. In addition, the radius of the latter is limited to 63 mm, while the former reach 125 mm in diameter.

The only disadvantage of fiberglass-reinforced pipes is that they are smaller than aluminum-reinforced pipes, resistance to internal pressure. In this regard, for their fasteners, it is necessary to use a larger number of fasteners. It is possible to install polypropylene pipes using glued couplings (glue is applied to the coupling and part of the pipe, and then the glue “grabs” the coupling within 15 seconds), but this method is not considered reliable. You can use press fittings for metal-plastic pipes, but diffusion welding is considered the most reliable way, when the pipe and the melted sleeve form a single body.

Due to the high popularity of reinforced pipes among consumers, some manufacturers, in order to reduce the cost of the final product, use in the production process low quality raw materials. Moreover, in appearance it is almost impossible to distinguish a quality product from a fake. Fiberglass comes in different colors, so you should not focus on its shade. The seller of polypropylene reinforced pipes must have a certificate, and he must also allow the buyer to check the condition of the product by external inspection. Fasteners must also be of high quality, in particular, they must include brass. Only high quality polypropylene pipes have a strong connection and anti-corrosion properties.

Pipe markings and their indicators

The latest development in the field of plastics production is high temperature polypropylene. "Random copolymer"(PPRC type 3). Its main advantages are:

Below are the main physical and mechanical properties of the PPRC material (type 3).

Pipes made of PPRC polymer type 3 can be used as pipeline networks for cold and hot drinking water in residential buildings and office buildings; for the operation of installations using compressed air; in heating networks; as a pipeline for agricultural needs; in an industrial pipeline network.

Consider technical characteristics of PP-R pipes three-layer glass fiber reinforced FIBER (PN 20).

Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass are ideal for systems autonomous heating and hot water supply. However, in order to maximize the best qualities of this material, it is necessary to follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Also, in order to avoid contact of water with the reinforcing middle layer, a special trimmer must be used during installation.

On the Internet, users leave a lot of positive feedback about polypropylene pipes.

More recently, predominantly traditional or steel were used for. But the emergence of polypropylene products has significantly shaken the leadership positions of metal products. Particularly noticeable in the market began to strengthen pipes reinforced with fiberglass. Why do consumers increasingly prefer these particular polypropylene products? What are their advantages? And are there any fundamental disadvantages? To your attention are not only the answers to the questions asked, but also the main subtleties of choosing pipes reinforced with fiberglass.

Pipe Benefits

Polypropylene pipes reinforced with a fiberglass frame have a number of advantages that make them attractive for use in a heating system:

Disadvantages of pipes

The disadvantages of polypropylene heating pipes with fiberglass reinforcement are much less than the advantages, but they should not be overlooked either.

The coating of products can be damaged under the influence of ultraviolet rays, so they are not recommended to be installed in open space - it is advisable to mount pipes in solid bases: in the floor or walls.
Pipes reinforced with fiberglass are characterized by low resistance to internal pressure - in this indicator they are inferior to similar polypropylene products with an aluminum frame.

Advice. To prevent fiberglass pipes from deforming under high pressure, mount them using as many fasteners as possible - if the product is not firmly fixed, it will simply sag.

The external rigidity of the fiberglass frame is somewhat less than the rigidity of the aluminum frame, so such pipes are not very resistant to severe mechanical damage.

Since the popularity of reinforced pipes is growing at an incredible pace, some unscrupulous manufacturers use low-quality fiberglass to reduce costs and increase output. In order not to fall for the trick of such manufacturers and not lose your money, be sure to ask the seller for quality certificates of the offered polypropylene products.

Pipe selection: dimensions and pressure

Even the highest quality pipes will be able to fully show their merits only under one condition: if they are correctly selected for a particular heating system. And for this, two most important parameters must be taken into account: dimensions and pressure - they directly affect the conditions under which this or that product can be used.

Polypropylene pipes and fittings

So, given the inner diameter, there are three functional groups of pipes:

for a central or autonomous heating system - with a diameter of 20-50 mm;
for risers - with a diameter of 10-75 mm;
for a warm floor - with a diameter of 16-90 mm.

Most often in standard heating systems pipes with an internal diameter of 20-25 mm are used. The maximum outside diameter can reach 1200mm.

Advice. When determining the specific indicators of the outer and inner diameters of the pipes, consider the throughput of the heating system in which they will be installed.

As for pressure, here you should pay attention to the marking of pipes - it makes it clear what maximum system pressure can withstand specific reinforced polypropylene products:

PN-10 - 1 MPa;
PN-20 - 2 MPa;
PN-25 - 2.5 MPa.

Important! Do not buy pipes marked PN-6 - they are not suitable for the heating system.

As you can see, glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes are a worthy alternative not only to the usual metal products, but also to many innovative products. They are easy to install, environmentally friendly, resistant to very high temperatures and have a solid service life - these qualities make pipes an ideal material for organizing a functional and durable heating system.

Polypropylene pipes and fittings: video

Polypropylene pipes for heating: photo

Water supply, heating in a house or apartment (autonomous or centralized) is not complete without the use of pipes. Many people remember how unattractive metal pipes look, they need to be constantly painted, maintained, and still at any moment they can let the homeowner down, because over time they react to changes in temperature and pressure worse and worse.

The metal quickly becomes covered with scale from the inside, which significantly slows down the movement of hot water and, as a result, reduces heat transfer. Probably, all the disadvantages of metal pipes prompted scientists, engineers and technologists to develop and implement new models of pipes made from modern materials using advanced technologies.

Manufacturers of reinforced polypropylene pipes

It is no secret that when buying pipes, the choice of a well-established manufacturer in the Russian and international markets is of no small importance. Today we will introduce some popular brands specializing in such products.

FV Plast (Czech Republic)

The company specializes in polypropylene for heating, hot and cold water supply, heating. The company's products are available only in gray with an aluminum and fiberglass layer.

Metak (Russia)

The company manufactures various products from polypropylene, including pipes reinforced with fiberglass under the Metak Fiber brand. The company's products are ideal for heavily loaded heating systems.

Banninger (Germany)

The German company produces excellent products that are of the highest quality and reliability in operation. The buyer can easily find it in the shop windows by its emerald green color.

In conclusion, I would like to recommend our readers not to buy reinforced polypropylene from unknown companies that do not even indicate their brand name on the label. By saving a small amount when buying, you can lose much more money (nerves, time) when low-quality products let you down. And it usually happens at the most inopportune moment.

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