Propylene pipe for heating reinforced with fiberglass. Polypropylene pipes for heating: reinforced with fiberglass and foil
According to its technical characteristics, polypropylene is a universal building material that is used for the installation and reconstruction of industrial facilities, public and residential buildings.
Currently, reinforced polypropylene pipes are widely used for the installation of heating systems, water supply and sanitary facilities. In many respects, they are significantly superior to similar products made from other materials.
The main characteristics of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass
Reinforced plastic pipes are more convenient and reliable in operation than conventional polypropylene pipes. When heated, polypropylene pipes increase and lose the necessary rigidity. Therefore, fiberglass is used to enhance the rigidity and durability of products. Fiberglass products are more resistant to extreme temperatures and aggressive substances.
Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass by extrusion, in the process of which a three-layer structure is formed. The outer and inner layers are made of polypropylene, the inner layer is made of fiberglass.
Fiberglass reinforces the pipe structure. Such products have increased strength and ductility. They are not subject to stratification, as they have a holistic structure. The fiberglass layer is organically fused into the polypropylene.
Advantages of reinforced polypropylene pipes
- have anti-corrosion properties;
- withstand high working pressure;
- weather resistant;
- low level of hydraulic resistance;
- environmentally safe.
Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass can be operated at temperatures from -50 to +350 degrees and have a service life of approximately 50 years. Reinforced models are marked as PPP-FB-PPR.
Features of the installation of polypropylene products
There are several types of welding:
- polyfusion (coupling), pipes with a diameter of not more than 63 mm are used;
- butt (flange), diameter not less than 63 mm;
- using electrical fittings.
fiberglass products cannot be bent, therefore, tees and corners are used for connection. Polypropylene pipes are used to create a variety of designs using fittings, which are divided by fastening methods, material of manufacture, etc.
According to the connection methods, there are:
- flanged;
- crimp;
- threaded;
- welded.
Polypropylene fittings are mainly welded and threaded, and have certain notches that set their position when welding. For repair in difficult conditions electric fittings are used having an electric heater.
During the installation of the pipeline, a certain order of work is observed. Since the structure of the products does not contain metal, the elements necessary in size are measured and cut with wire cutters.
In case of insufficient heating joints will be unreliable, and when overheated, deformation of the structure occurs. Installation of the product must be carried out at an air temperature of at least 5 degrees.
To avoid contact of water with fiberglass in the water supply system and possible adverse effects on human health, facers are used during pipeline installation. With their help, the internal reinforced layers are cut to a shallow depth. In the process of heating the pipe and its welding, the outer layers are melted and cover the middle one. As a result contact of fiberglass with water is excluded and at the same time improve the quality of installation.
The disadvantage of fiberglass structures is that they have a lower resistance to internal pressure. Therefore, during the installation process, more fasteners must be used. However, they have low thermal conductivity, which allows you to maintain the temperature of the coolant.
When heated, fiberglass has a greater expansion compared to the aluminum layer (by 5-6%). However, the process of installing such a pipeline is much simpler than for models with aluminum reinforcement and does not require additional processing of products. As a result saves installation time and additional costs without compromising the quality of the work.
The areas of application of polypropylene reinforced pipes are very versatile. The traditional direction is the use in plumbing, sewerage or heating systems.
For sewer facilities, products with a length of about 4 m and a diameter of 16 mm to 125 mm are used, in water supply systems - with a diameter of up to 110 mm. For underfloor heating, products with a diameter of not more than 17 mm are used.
Systems of polypropylene pipelines located under the roads are protected by reinforced concrete boxes. The advantage of reinforced products is that when freezing, the material retains its integrity. Also, they do not form deposits.
Large diameter fiberglass products can be used in ventilation systems, as they are light in weight and do not create large loads on the wooden partitions of structures.
Fiberglass reinforced polypropylene pipes are widely used in agriculture - in drainage and irrigation systems. They are used as technological pipelines for the transportation of liquids and gases that are non-aggressive to the pipe material.
Fiberglass pipes are usually reinforced with fiberglass in various colors - orange, red, blue or green. Such a coloring pigment does not affect anything. A colored strip can be applied on the longitudinal surface, which means that the red one is suitable for hot water supply, the blue one for cold water supply, and two at once - about the versatility of the model.
When choosing polypropylene pipes, you must be guided by the following parameters:
- product diameter;
- maximum temperature value;
- limiting pressure value;
- chemical impact;
- linear extension.
Of great importance is the degree of expected load on the pipes, the type of water supply, the main points of installing the heating system.
Polypropylene reinforced pipes in many respects and characteristics have proven to be the most reliable and easy to use. At the same time, they are affordable, aesthetic and make it easy to create a modern and durable system of engineering communications.
Polypropylene in the construction industry is used for various tasks. However, the most useful and popular area of its application is the creation of pipes for heating and water supply systems.
It is from polypropylene that plastic modern pipelines are assembled. Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass are especially popular, as the reviews and their characteristics are truly unique.
Purpose and application
Technical polypropylene samples are used for the assembly of predominantly civil pipelines. By itself, polypropylene has excellent properties, as well as good reviews. It does not react to corrosion, has a high operating pressure and is very durable.
In terms of strength, this material is head and shoulders above all other building polymers. However, strength is also achieved due to the rather impressive thickness of the pipe walls. For polypropylene samples, their thickness can reach up to 6-7 mm.
The only problem with such products is that polypropylene is able to expand from thermal loads. In this case, the pipe not only increases in size, but also loses a substantial percentage of its rigidity.
It was to eliminate such problems that polypropylene products were invented inside with fiberglass. Their peculiarity is that inside the pipe there is a reinforcing layer of fiberglass. This is a kind of rigid frame for the pipe, which will keep the polymer in its normal state.
They also manufacture products with aluminum reinforcement. They are also good and suitable for various jobs that are associated with the installation of pipelines. However, aluminum is not as reliable in terms of limiting thermal expansion. But welding pipes made of polypropylene reinforced with fiberglass is much more reliable in this regard.
It is worth noting that the developers have a special marking for polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass. Labeling was invented in order to simplify the task for buyers. Products made from ordinary polypropylene are labeled with an indicator of PP.
The PPR indicator is already the marking of a reinforced pipe. And PPRS is a model made of polypropylene, which is reinforced with the latest development in this area. In their manufacture, a special copolymer is used, which qualitatively improves all the properties of the product.
Characteristics and properties
Characteristics of a polypropylene pipe reinforced with fiberglass are its main advantage. Which, by the way, is quite natural.
PP pipe reinforced with fiberglass is able to withstand severe loads. First of all, welding takes into account the increase in rigidity and ductility of the product. Fiberglass here works as a stabilizing frame.
The operating temperature limit is also significantly increased. PPR tube reinforced with fiberglass is operated without problems at temperatures from -50 to + 350 degrees. Moreover, in the specified range, the size and welding of the pipe will change only slightly. The average thermal expansion is only 1 centimeter per meter.
With an increase in working marks, the pipe will lose in rigidity, but only slightly. And the most important thing is that the inner reinforced layer of fiberglass threads will not allow it to burst even if critical indicators are exceeded.
The technical characteristics of glass fiber reinforced pipes also allow them to be used in outdoor pipelines.
When working with conventional materials, it is not recommended to use standard plastic products outside the building, since after several cycles of freezing and thawing there is a high chance of damage to them. But a plastic pipe reinforced with fiberglass does not set such restrictions.
Another big plus is that PPR pipe reinforced with fiberglass is much easier to install, welding is better than its aluminum counterparts. When trimming models with aluminum reinforcement, they need to be additionally cleaned, calibrated and the remains of the metal sheet removed.
Fiberglass is introduced into the product by extruding it. As a result, welding provides a completely monolithic material, which lends itself perfectly to various manipulations and is easy to work with.
Advantages and disadvantages
Based on the properties described above, we can highlight the main pros and cons of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement.
Main advantages:
- Durability;
- Corrosion resistance;
- Minimum temperature expansion;
- Increased structural rigidity and overall strength;
- Simplified installation process;
- Versatility;
- Wide operating temperature range;
- The price of a fiberglass-reinforced pipe, although higher than other polymer products, is still quite acceptable and justified.
As for the minuses, these products also have them and are rather related to the diseases of most polymeric materials of this type.
Main cons:
- With direct and prolonged contact with sunlight, the polymer begins to break down;
- The linear expansion of products of this type is higher than that of metal ones.
Types and differences
There are several main types of such products. Each type has its own marking so that welding meets its working pressure. The higher this indicator, the stronger the welding, the more reliable and more expensive the product.
- Products marked PN-10 withstand a pressure of 10 bar and are used for equipment of predominantly cold water supply systems. The price of a PPR pipe reinforced with fiberglass PN-10 is 0.7-1 dollar per 1 meter;
- Pipelines PN-16 withstand a pressure of 16 bar and are used for equipment of heating and water supply systems. The price of PP pipe reinforced with fiberglass of this type is at the level of 1-2 dollars per 1 running meter;
- Products marked PN-20 are considered the most popular and in demand. It is used to create contours in underfloor heating systems, stationary heating systems, etc. These pipes are sold for 3-4 dollars per meter;
- Polypropylene pipe PN 25 reinforced with fiberglass withstands pressure from 25 bar, is used as the main element for the assembly of central heating systems. The price of a PN25 pipe reinforced with fiberglass is 4-6 dollars per 1 meter;
- PPRS pipe reinforced with fiberglass is not inherently a separate type, but it would be a mistake not to indicate it here. As mentioned above, a high quality polymer is used in its creation, which significantly improves its performance. These products are very durable, resistant, and also elastic. Can dampen noise and vibration. You can buy them for 4-8 dollars.
It should be understood that the price of polypropylene products reinforced with fiberglass is largely determined by their thickness. A piece with a diameter of 16 mm will cost 2-2.5 times cheaper than a similar one with a diameter of 40 mm.
Welding of reinforced (PP) polypropylene pipes (video)
It is very easy to find polypropylene pipelines in the store. They differ from other plastic products in matte color with wall thickness. Reinforced samples are also distinguished by the fact that in the center of the wall in the section you can see a line of a certain color. This is a layer of reinforcement.
The color of this layer and the polypropylene itself can tell you little. Each developer uses his own technologies and in this regard, the standards are almost not unified. However, be careful and remember that before you buy fiberglass reinforced polypropylene pipes, you need to make sure that they are reliable.
The fact is that many manufacturers are trying to save their resources, so they produce products from recycled materials. It is quite obvious that they will be inferior in quality to the original products. It is better to refuse the purchase of such products.
Make sure in advance that the seller has all certificates with sales permits. The presence of documents almost always guarantees that you are buying really branded products that will serve you for decades.
Increasing the pressure is not critical, but reduces the possible duration of their operation. In this case, the manufacturer can no longer guarantee their normal operation.
Pay attention to the diameter of the product, as well as the thickness of their walls. For example, products made of polypropylene reinforced with fiberglass 40 mm in diameter are rather intended for laying the main branches of water supply or heating.
However, it will not be profitable to buy it for the equipment of the entire system. For such purposes, samples with a diameter of 15-25 mm are better suited.
Remember that polypropylene products have a serious thickness. Therefore, a pipe with an outer diameter of 20 mm can have half the nominal bore, which will necessarily affect its throughput.
Any water-type heating system assumes the presence of circuits through which the coolant circulates. These pipe lines connect the boiler with all, to the most remote, heat exchange devices - heating radiators. As a result, in a building or even an apartment of a large area, the general system can take on a very complex branched form, and the length of the laid pipes can be tens or even hundreds of meters.
Not so long ago, there was practically no alternative to VGP steel pipes. But, you see, their acquisition, transportation and installation itself are very difficult, expensive and not accessible to everyone for self-execution activities. And, frankly, there are a lot of other shortcomings in such pipes. Another thing is inexpensive, lightweight, easy to install, and simply outwardly pretty polypropylene pipes. True, not all of their varieties are suitable for such purposes, due to the characteristics of the material of manufacture. But polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass for heating will be an excellent option.
You may be interested in information about what are and their benefits
In addition to them, polypropylene pipes are also produced with aluminum reinforcement, therefore, in order to figure out which ones are better, it is worth comparing them. Only in this way will it be possible to evaluate and identify the characteristic features of different types of these products.
Why are reinforced polypropylene pipes needed for heating?
The heating system will be reliable in operation if you choose the “right” pipes for it that meet certain requirements. Such criteria include the resistance of products to high temperature and pressure loads. to the aggressive effects of the coolant circulating through them. It is especially important to consider these requirements if the pipes and their fittings are planned to be installed in a system connected to a district heating supply.
In specialized stores, you can find reinforced polypropylene pipes with different wall thicknesses, made from materials of different quality, differing in resistance to high pressure and temperatures, ultraviolet exposure, and having different coefficients of linear expansion. Therefore, if it is decided to mount a new circuit or replace the old pipes with polypropylene ones, it is necessary to know the evaluation criteria that the materials used for these purposes must meet.
So, for the installation of the heating circuit, it is necessary to choose pipes that meet a number of important requirements.
- The temperature of the coolant in the central heating system is usually 75 ÷ 80 degrees, but sometimes it can reach higher values, close to 90 ÷ 95 ºС. Therefore, when purchasing these products, it is worth choosing them with a margin of thermal stability, that is, their characteristics should indicate a temperature of at least 95 degrees.
- Polypropylene is an excellent material for pipes, but it has a characteristic quality - a too significant coefficient of linear expansion with temperature changes (according to tabular data - 0.15 mm / m × ºС). A little? But what if we look at this matter “through the prism” of absolute values?
Suppose the installation of the heating circuit was carried out at a temperature of +20 ºС. After starting the heating system, the temperature in the supply pipe is planned, even if only at 75 ºС. So, we have a drop with an amplitude of + 55 degrees. With the above coefficient of thermal expansion, each meter of our circuit will increase in length by 8.25 mm. Even on a relatively small straight section of 3 meters, this will already give 2.5 centimeters of elongation, not to mention longer sections. But this is already - very seriously!
As a result, pipes located openly are deformed, bent, jump out of their clips. Naturally, at the same time, internal stresses in their walls grow, connecting nodes are overloaded, and the tightness of threaded connections on fittings may be broken. The system is clearly losing not only in the aesthetics of its appearance, but also in overall reliability.
And what happens to such pipes if they are hard-wired into walls or floors? It is even difficult to imagine how great internal stresses their walls experience. It is clear that there is no question of any durability of such a heating circuit.
You might be interested in information about which is better −
But for reinforced pipes, the coefficient of linear expansion is almost five times less. With the same initial data, a three-meter section will lengthen by only 4.95 mm, which is not at all critical. Of course, this does not eliminate the need to compensate for linear expansion over very long segments, but on the other hand, the compensators themselves (loop or bellows) will need to be much smaller, and they can be placed in inaccessible places.
- In addition to high temperatures, the central heating system is not distinguished by pressure stability, since, especially at the start of testing activities after the summer season, uncontrolled pressure jumps, up to powerful water hammers, usually occur in it. Therefore, pipes must be resistant to baric overloads, and only products reinforced with aluminum or fiberglass have such qualities to a much greater extent.
- The service life of pipes for heating systems declared by the manufacturer must be comparable with the durability of other devices and elements included in the common circuit. And in this position, reinforced polypropylene pipes have a clear advantage.
- A good property of propylene is inertness to the aggressive medium of the coolant, since the wall material should not be subject to corrosion and destructurization from the effects of various chemicals, the presence of which, alas, cannot be excluded in the central heating system.
- Ideally smooth surfaces of the inner walls of pipes made of polypropylene make it possible to freely circulate the coolant through the heating circuit.
- Polypropylene has the ability to muffle the sounds of coolant circulation inside the system, which distinguishes it from traditional steel. Fiberglass-reinforced pipes have this advantage to a more pronounced degree.
Marking of polypropylene pipes
Without exception, all polypropylene pipes must have an alphanumeric marking on their surface, which indicates their main physical, technical and operational characteristics. When purchasing pipes, it is recommended to carefully study the marking so as not to make a mistake with the choice of the best option.
For clarity, consider the marking on an example:
BUT- as a rule, the marking begins with the logo or company name of the material manufacturer. In any case, those firms that really enjoy authority in this area of \u200b\u200bproduction do not hesitate to put their name on each unit of their products. Well, if the manufacturer is "shy", and nothing of the kind is indicated in the labeling, this should be a reason to think about whether it is worth buying such a product, whether it is a cheap imitation.
B– The following abbreviation refers to the structural structure of the pipe. The following notations are usually found here:
- PPR - polypropylene pipe without any internal reinforcement;
- PPR-FB-PPR - glass fiber reinforced pipe;
- PPR / PPR-GF / PPR or PPR-GF - a pipe reinforced with a composite material, which includes fiberglass and polypropylene;
— PPR-AL-PPR - a pipe reinforced with aluminum foil.
- PP-RCT-AL-PPR - this complex abbreviation indicates that the pipe consists of several layers made of different materials. So PP-RCT - the inner layer is modified polypropylene with improved thermostatic properties, AL - the middle layer is aluminum foil, and PPR - the outer layer is polypropylene.
AT- The following designation, PN, is the type of pipe, which largely indicates its operational characteristics and areas of possible purpose. The numbers indicate the nominal working pressure in the system (in bar or technical atmospheres):
- PN-10 - such pipes can withstand a pressure of 10 bar, and can be used for cold water supply or, as an exception, for installing piping to underfloor heating circuits while maintaining the appropriate temperature regime, as they are designed for temperatures not exceeding + 45 degrees.
- PN-16 - products are designed for cold and hot water supply with temperatures up to + 60 degrees and working pressure up to 16 bar.
- PN-20 is the most popular option, since it can be called universal, as it is used for both hot and cold water supply, as well as for heating circuits. Pipes with this marking withstand temperatures of 95 degrees and pressures up to 20 bar.
- PN-25 - such pipes are the most durable, withstand a pressure of 25 bar and a temperature of 95 degrees. They are used for installation in risers of heating and hot water systems, including for circuits connected to central heating.
The main standard dimensional parameters of pipes for this classification are presented in the table below:
| Ø Нр, mm | PN-25 | PN-20 | PN-16 | PN-10 | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ø Vn, mm | TS, mm | Ø Vn, mm | TS, mm | Ø Vn, mm | TS, mm | Ø Vn, mm | TS, mm | |
| 16 | - | - | 10.6 | 2.7 | 11.6 | 2.2 | - | - |
| 20 | 13.2 | 3.4 | 13.2 | 3.4 | 14.4 | 2.8 | 16.2 | 1.9 |
| 25 | 16.6 | 4.2 | 16.6 | 4.2 | 18 | 3.5 | 20.4 | 2.3 |
| 32 | 21.2 | 3 | 21.2 | 5.4 | 23 | 4.4 | 26 | 3 |
| 40 | 26.6 | 3.7 | 26.6 | 6.7 | 28.8 | 5.5 | 32.6 | 3.7 |
| 50 | 33.2 | 4.6 | 33.2 | 8.4 | 36.2 | 6.9 | 40.8 | 4.6 |
| 63 | 42 | 5.8 | 42 | 10.5 | 45.6 | 8.4 | 51.4 | 5.8 |
| 75 | 50 | 6.9 | 50 | 12.5 | 54.2 | 10.3 | 61.2 | 6.9 |
| 90 | - | - | 60 | 15 | 65 | 12.3 | 73.6 | 8.2 |
| 110 | - | - | 73.2 | 18.4 | 79.6 | 15.1 | 90 | 10 |
| Ø Nr - outer diameter of the pipe | ||||||||
| Ø Vn - Diameter of the inner channel of the pipe (nominal bore) | ||||||||
| TS – pipe wall thickness | ||||||||
G- The next indicator is the outer diameter of the pipe and the thickness of its walls in millimeters.
D- The service class (the parameter is set by GOST for pipes of domestic production) indicates the recommended scope of this type of pipe:
| Operation class of polypropylene pipes | Fluid temperature (operating / maximum), ºC | The purpose of the pipes |
|---|---|---|
| XV | up to 20 | Cold water systems+ |
| 1 | 60 / 80 | Hot water system with a maximum temperature of 60 ºC |
| 2 | 70 / 80 | Hot water system with a maximum temperature of 70 ºC |
| 3 | 40 / 60 | Underfloor heating systems with low temperature operation |
| 4 | 60 / 70 | Underfloor heating systems with high-temperature operating modes, classic heating systems heating with maximum heat carrier temperatures up to 60 ºC |
| 5 | 80 / 90 | Heating systems with high temperatures, including those with district heating |
F- The last alphanumeric designation indicates the regulatory document (GOST, ISO or TO), according to the standards of which these products are manufactured.
Having received information about the classification of the pipe, you can immediately assess the possible duration of its operation under the planned conditions. The following table will help you with this:
| Heat carrier temperature, ºС | Estimated service life | Pipe types | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PN-25 | PN-20 | PN-16 | PN-10 | ||
| Maximum working pressure in the system (kgf/cm²) | |||||
| 20 | 10 | 33.9 | 21.7 | 21.7 | 13.5 |
| 25 | 33 | 26.4 | 21.1 | 13.2 | |
| 50 | 32.3 | 25.9 | 20.7 | 12.9 | |
| 30 | 10 | 9.3 | 23.5 | 18.8 | 11.7 |
| 25 | 28.3 | 22.7 | 18.1 | 11.3 | |
| 50 | 27.7 | 22.1 | 17.7 | 11.1 | |
| 40 | 10 | 25.3 | 20.3 | 16.2 | 10.1 |
| 25 | 24.3 | 19.5 | 15.6 | 9.7 | |
| 50 | 23 | 18.4 | 14.7 | 9.2 | |
| 50 | 10 | 21.7 | 23.5 | 17.3 | 13.9 |
| 25 | 20 | 16 | 12.8 | 8 | |
| 50 | 18.3 | 14.7 | 11.7 | 7.3 | |
| 60 | 10 | 18 | 14.4 | 11.5 | 7.2 |
| 25 | 15.3 | 12.3 | 9.8 | 6.1 | |
| 50 | 13.7 | 10.9 | 8.7 | 5.5 | |
| 70 | 10 | 13.3 | 10.7 | 8.5 | 5.3 |
| 25 | 11.9 | 9.1 | 7.3 | 4.5 | |
| 30 | 11 | 8.8 | 7 | 4.4 | |
| 50 | 10.7 | 8.5 | 6.8 | 4.3 | |
| 80 | 5 | 10.8 | 8.7 | 6.9 | 4.3 |
| 10 | 9.8 | 7.9 | 6.3 | 3.9 | |
| 25 | 9.2 | 7.5 | 5.9 | 3.7 | |
| 95 | 1 | 8.5 | 7.6 | 6.7 | 3.9 |
| 5 | 6.1 | 5.4 | 4.4 | 2.8 | |
Prices for glass fiber reinforced polypropylene pipes
reinforced polypropylene pipes
The structure of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement
As mentioned above, polypropylene pipes are reinforced to make them resistant to elevated temperatures and baric loads and to drastically reduce the rate of linear thermal expansion. In order to decide which option is better to choose - pipes reinforced with aluminum or fiberglass, it is worth comparing their main characteristics.
Fiberglass began to be used to strengthen polypropylene pipes much later than aluminum foil. Products reinforced with this material are a three-layer structure, and the reinforcing layer is located between two layers of polypropylene.
"Armopoyas" can consist only of fiberglass, or of a composite material containing fiberglass and polypropylene in its composition. In any of these options, the layers have excellent adhesion to each other, practically becoming a monolithic structure.
Thanks to such a reliable soldering, the delamination of the walls of a well-made pipe is even theoretically impossible.
Fiberglass perfectly restrains thermal expansion, which prevents the pipes from deforming and stretching in any way when the temperature rises.
This type of reinforced polypropylene pipes is produced in various dimensional parameters. So, products with a diameter of less than 17 mm are used mainly for installing the "warm floor" system, pipes Ø 20 mm are well suited for domestic hot water distribution, and from 20 to 32 mm (sometimes more) - for arranging heating circuits .
The connection of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement is carried out by welding, sometimes by other installation methods. Moreover, during welding, this type of pipe does not require a rather laborious stripping operation, which greatly facilitates and speeds up the work. The absence of metal elements in the design of these pipes eliminates the appearance of deposits of hardness salts, and the connections of all parts of the heating system become completely monolithic.
Let's compare the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass and aluminum reinforcement of PPR pipes
- The first thing to say is that the coefficient of thermal expansion for pipes with aluminum and fiberglass reinforcement is almost the same, and ranges from 0.03 to 0.035 mm / m × ºС. Thus, both types, from this point of view, are equivalent.
- The fiberglass reinforcing layer closes the entire space between the outer and inner layers of polypropylene. Therefore, these pipes are tear-resistant, reliable and durable, and their estimated service life is about 50 years. In aluminum-reinforced pipes, the reinforcing layer has a welded seam (and sometimes, in inexpensive products, even simply joined edges of the foil are overlapped), which makes them more vulnerable to elevated temperature and pressure.
- Pipes reinforced with fiberglass are a good anti-diffusion layer that does not allow oxygen to pass to the coolant.
The diffusion process will necessarily lead to an acceleration of the corrosion processes of the metal equipment of the heating system - this is a boiler, pump, shut-off and control valves and other elements.
Since aluminum-reinforced products sometimes have a non-continuous foil layer, the risk of penetration into the coolant increases. In addition, aluminum itself is very unstable to oxygen corrosion.
- When installing pipes with a fiberglass layer, the density and strength of their connections do not require regular monitoring and maintenance. If aluminum-reinforced products are installed, the reliability of the connection will depend on the quality of the calibration and stripping them before installation.
The fact is that pipes with an aluminum reinforcing belt are a glued wall construction. If during the soldering process a section of metal remains on the cut, in contact with the coolant, then it is from here that the process of wall delamination can begin. And this, in turn, with a high degree of probability will lead to swelling first, and then to a breakthrough of the pipe body.
And for pipes with fiberglass reinforcement, which are almost a monolithic structure, this "Achilles' heel" is absent.
Yes, and it is much faster and easier to weld pipes without stripping, especially since you do not need a special tool (shaver) for these purposes.
- Pipes reinforced with fiberglass have good thermal insulation properties, which minimizes heat loss. For pipes reinforced with aluminum foil, the thermal conductivity is slightly higher.
- All materials used in the manufacture of reinforced polypropylene pipes for heating are non-toxic and do not emit harmful fumes both when cold and when heated. This applies equally to both types of pipes.
- The resistance to chemical influences is no different, which allows both types to withstand the “aggression” of a low-quality coolant.
- The temperature range within which these types of pipes are normally operated is from -10 to +95 degrees. But, even with a short-term increase in temperature above this, the pipe may sag a little, but it should not be damaged.
Based on the considered characteristics of the data, we can conclude that the best option for installation in a heating system for supplying coolant to radiators are pipes PN-20 and PN-25 with diameters from 20 ÷ 25 mm. But when pipes with a smaller diameter are installed in the heating system, the internal seam formed during the soldering process can prevent the free flow of the coolant.
For the installation of risers, pipes with a diameter of at least 32 mm are usually selected, otherwise it may also be small for the full movement of the coolant. Larger diameters can also be used on the collector sections of the system - the range of products on sale allows this.
You might be interested in knowing what are suitable
Manufacturers of polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass
At the end of the publication - a short review of high-quality polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement, domestic and imported, which have earned positive feedback from professionals.
"METAK"
METAK is a Russian company producing various polypropylene products for heating and cold water supply systems, including glass fiber reinforced pipes under the METAK FIBER brand. This product is excellent for installation in highly loaded heating systems.
The pipes are produced in white design, have a maximum operating temperature of 95 degrees, are designed for an operating pressure of 25 bar with a destructive pressure of 50 bar.
Fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene three-layer pipes of the METAK company and their connecting parts (fittings) are produced in accordance with GOST. They are used to install pipelines for cold and hot water supply, underfloor heating, wiring systems and process pipelines, so they can have different diameters.
This table provides information on the dimensions of the fiberglass reinforced pipes produced by this company. Common to all products is the length, which is 4000 mm.
| Pipe outer diameter, mm | Inner diameter, mm | Wall thickness, mm |
|---|---|---|
| 20 | 13.2 | 3.4 |
| 25 | 16.6 | 4.2 |
| 32 | 21.2 | 5.4 |
| 40 | 26.6 | 6.7 |
| 50 | 33.2 | 8.4 |
| 63 | 42 | 10.5 |
| 75 | 50 | 12.5 |
These products are great for heating systems of country houses and apartments in multi-storey buildings. All METAK products comply with all domestic and European standards and requirements established for these products, as they are produced on high-tech equipment under the strict control of qualified specialists.
FV Plast
The Czech company "FV Plast" specializes in the development and manufacture of polypropylene pipes designed for pressure water pipes for supplying cold drinking water, hot water supply and heating systems. The company produces polypropylene pipes and fittings for them only in gray color, with a reinforcing aluminum and fiberglass layer.
"FV Plast" was one of the first to start manufacturing products reinforced with fiberglass - this product range is called "FASER".
Prices for polypropylene pipes FV Plast
reinforced polypropylene pipes FV Plast
Characteristics of FV Plast FASER pipes reinforced with fiberglass:
- The operating temperature of the coolant is up to 80 degrees.
- A short-term increase in temperature is allowed up to 90 degrees.
- The working pressure of the system is 20 bar.
- The maximum allowable pressure is 36 bar.
- The service life of products declared by the manufacturer is 25÷50 years.
In addition to the pipes themselves, the company presents on the market all the necessary components for them, which allows the material from one manufacturer to create heating circuits of any complexity with guaranteed reliability.
You may be interested in information about what they are
Kalde
Kalde is Turkey's leading manufacturer of modern heating and plumbing systems assembled from PPR pipes and fittings. The material of this company is characterized by maximum protection against build-up and contamination inside the pipes during the entire service life. Reliable, lightweight, durable, comfortable and economical Kalde systems are inert to corrosion and chemical attack. Available in the widest range of diameters - from 20 to 110 mm.
Kalde Fiber is a three-layer pipe with a white outer surface, made of polypropylene and reinforced with fiberglass. It is distinguished by excellent heat resistance, with the upper limit of the coolant temperature reaching up to 95 degrees. Even at such a temperature in the system, a pressure not exceeding 10 bar, the manufacturer declares a service life of at least 50 years.
Prices for Kalde polypropylene pipes
Kalde reinforced polypropylene pipes
In addition to the above, the company also produces various types of polypropylene pipes:
- PN10 and PN20 made of polypropylene, PPRC– without internal reinforcement.
- PN20 and PN25 reinforced with aluminum foil - pipes for heating and heating, air conditioning systems and similar industrial uses.
- AL-Super is a polypropylene pipe, reinforced in the middle layer with aluminum foil, which does not require trimming and stripping.
The range of Kalde accessories is very diverse and designed for different, even the most complex heating circuits.
"BANNINGER"
BANNINGER is a German company that manufactures products that are distinguished by true European quality and undeniable reliability in operation. The company produces polypropylene pipes and a complete set of necessary accessories for installation of heating circuits, hot and cold water supply. A distinctive feature is the unusual, emerald green color of BANNINGER polypropylene pipes.
Products are characterized by high plasticity, therefore they calmly react to high and low temperatures. The parameters of polypropylene parts are selected taking into account studies on the fatigue properties of the material, during operation for 50 years, at a constant temperature of 70 degrees and pressure up to 10 bar.
The company's product range includes polypropylene pipes without reinforcing materials, as well as with an aluminum and fiberglass layer. Within the framework of this article, samples of the WATERTEC series deserve attention. » and CLIMATEC. Their use will provide the created heating circuit with guaranteed indicators of reliability and durability.
A few words at the end
In conclusion, I would like to recommend that you do not purchase pipes from unknown manufacturers who do not even mention the name of their company in the product labeling. Having saved a little, you can buy a product that will not last even one heating season, failing at the most inopportune moment. In such a situation, you will have to pay a much more serious amount to replace the pipes of the heating system, repair your own and, possibly, a neighbor's apartment.
Another little note. One of the most frequently asked questions is the following: “What information does the color of the reinforcing layer located in the pipe wall carry?” The answer is simple - none. The color of the reinforcement is rather a “whim” of the manufacturer, the desire to distinguish their products from the general background.
By and large, any fiberglass-reinforced polypropylene pipe is already designed for operation at elevated temperatures. So there will be a reinforcing "ring" red, green, blue or gray - it does not matter. The main information is in the alphanumeric marking of the pipe and in its technical documentation, which, by the way, do not forget to get acquainted with in the store when choosing a material.
And, finally, to "fix" the information received about polypropylene pipes - watch the video attached below:
Video: Recommendations for the right choice of polypropylene pipes
You might be interested in information on how to choose
Evgeny AfanasievChief Editor
Publication author 14.10.2016
To what extent are fiberglass reinforced polypropylene pipes for heating better than classic metal structures? Having understood the properties and qualities of innovative pipes, it will be easier not only to answer these questions, but also to make the right choice for a particular system. It is equally important to determine the main criteria for evaluating products when comparing.
When choosing pipes, it should be taken into account that the material properties are optimized due to the multilayer structure of the products. Thanks to it, the polymer acquires the ability to withstand high temperatures, while not expanding linearly, unlike unreinforced types of pipelines made of this material. The advantages of polypropylene include:
- ease of installation,
- low weight of the system elements, which greatly simplifies transportation and installation,
- environmental safety,
- lack of vibration and noise during operation,
- minimum hydraulic losses,
- resistance to the formation of mineral deposits on the inner surface,
- insulating properties that allow pipes not to conduct stray currents,
- longevity (50 years or more),
- higher strength of welded joints (compared to collet joints),
- economy (due to reduced heat loss),
- immunity to mechanical influences,
- chemical resistance,
- affordable price.
Aesthetically pleasing polypropylene tubes do not require painting.
Scope of application
Even knowing all the advantages of products, how to choose polypropylene pipes for heating for a particular object is decided individually. Polypropylene (or thermoplastic) is able to change its properties with temperature changes. The limit values are marked on the pipes. For most systems, polypropylene pipes for heating are suitable, the technical characteristics of which allow them to withstand temperatures up to +95 ° C. This limit value is specified taking into account a kind of “margin”, a short-term increase in temperature to +110 ° C will not destroy the system and will not adversely affect its performance. The polymer begins to soften only at +140 °C, and melts at +175 °C.
Polypropylene products should not be used for the installation of centralized communications in regions where severe frosts are possible, and the coolant temperature sometimes exceeds the boiling point. For autonomous heating systems with the ability to control the temperature of the coolant by the user, polypropylene is excellent. Polymer pipes are suitable for classic home heating systems and for.
Types of reinforcement
Reinforcement of polypropylene allows to increase its strength and reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion.
Aluminum
Reinforcement with aluminum thin sheet (foil) can be performed inside or along the outer layer. In the first case, aluminum foil is located in the middle or closer to the inner surface of the pipe.
Reinforcing aluminum layers may differ in structure:
- solid,
- perforated.
Fiberglass
The advantages that a polypropylene pipe reinforced with glass fiber for heating has: the price is affordable and attractive to buyers for such quality products and even lower thermal conductivity. Such products are recommended for installation of heating by an open method. It should also be noted that fiberglass as a reinforcing layer does not require, unlike a layer of aluminum, additional cleaning of pipes before welding.
Polypropylene pipes for heating, reinforced inside with fiberglass, are made by co-extrusion and the reinforcing layer is located in the middle, the outer and inner surfaces of the pipes are polypropylene.
The disadvantage of this type of products is fragility.
Composite
Composite or composite material is a mixture of fiberglass and polypropylene. Such reinforcement improves the performance of products and eliminates the main drawback of fiberglass reinforcement. When mixed with polypropylene, fiberglass forms a strong bond at the molecular level, the product does not become brittle. At the same time, composite-reinforced products are the most durable and durable, and there is no need to perform stripping during their installation. Composite is the best answer to the question: “which polypropylene pipe to choose for heating?”.
Criterias of choice
Studying the polypropylene pipes on the market, they decide which ones to choose based on the totality of the main operating parameters.
Operating pressure
The marking parameter is denoted by the letters PN. The choice of value is determined by the characteristics of the system. If it is necessary to periodically carry out pressure testing for ordinary pipelines, it is optimal to choose products of the PN20 brand, but for high temperatures typical for heating systems (from +70 ° C), PN25 pipelines with composite or fiberglass reinforcement are suitable.
The pressure in floor and autonomous heating systems, as a rule, is less (up to 10 atmospheres), therefore, PN20 polypropylene pipes with monolithic or perforated aluminum reinforcement are suitable for their installation.
Working temperature of the coolant
Which polypropylene pipes are best for heating depends on the type of system. Due to the fact that the temperature of the heat carrier in "warm floor" systems is lower (usually up to +40 ° C), they can use not only pipes with any type of reinforcement, but also monocomposition products.
In radiator-type systems with a coolant temperature of about +85 ° C, any reinforced polypropylene pipes can be used.
Pipe diameter
- For large objects (large saunas, hotels, hospitals, etc.), pipes of 200 mm or more will be required.
- For the installation of heating systems in private homes, the necessary water passage will be provided by pipes of 20-32 mm. They are easy to lay on their own, including giving the necessary bend.
- Heating polypropylene pipes with reinforcement are also used for the installation of hot water supply lines. In this case, a diameter of 20 mm is chosen, and products of 25-32 mm are optimal for risers.
- 25 mm pipes are used in central heating systems.
- For a warm floor, 16 mm is enough.
An integrated autonomous heating system will require the use of pipes of various diameters.
- For example, when installing heating in a private house with a single-pipe system, radiators are connected in series to the main line. For the installation of such a ring, pipes of 32-40 mm are required, and for taps to radiators - up to 26 mm.
- With a two-pipe system, the principle of operation of heating is different. The parallel operation of the supply and return lines reduces the pressure in the lines, so you should choose pipes of a smaller diameter - up to 30 mm.
When it is necessary to create hot water supply, very often there is a desire to replace expensive copper pipes with similar products, but cheaper. Polypropylene pipes are ideal for this purpose.
Ordinary polypropylene structures have a large number of disadvantages. Therefore, PP pipes reinforced with fiberglass have been developed.
When choosing pipes, you must always remember that the optimization of material properties occurs due to its multilayer structure.
Therefore, the polymer material is able to withstand very high temperatures without linear expansion. Non-reinforced polymer pipelines do not have such properties.
The main advantages of propylene are:
- ease of installation work;
- small mass;
- easy transportation;
- fast installation;
- environmental friendliness;
- lack of vibration;
- silent operation;
- there are no hydraulic losses;
- excellent insulator, does not pass stray current;
- service life exceeds 50 years;
- welding joints are much stronger than collet ones;
- high efficiency due to minimal heat loss;
- do not deform under high mechanical loads;
- low cost;
- beautiful appearance;
- do not require special staining.
Application area
Even knowing well all the positive qualities of polypropylene pipes, their choice is always made individually, taking into account all the nuances of a particular object.
When the temperature of the coolant changes its indicator, the properties of polypropylene may also change. For each type of pipe, there are limiting parameters that are marked on the outer surface.
Almost all modern heating systems are ideal for polypropylene products that can withstand heating of the coolant up to 95 degrees.
This limit value of heating includes a certain margin, if there is a short-term heating up to 110 degrees, the system will retain its integrity, its characteristics will remain unchanged.
The softening of the polymer begins at a temperature of more than 140 degrees, and its melting is observed after 175 degrees.
Polypropylene products are not installed in centralized communications if severe frosts are observed in the areas of their location. To maintain heat, it is necessary to heat the coolant above the boiling point.
If the heating system operates offline and has a temperature control sensor for heating the coolant, polypropylene products may be the best choice.
They are great for creating a "warm floor" or conventional space heating.
Which is better to choose: a product reinforced with aluminum or fiberglass
To increase the strength of PP pipes, several types of reinforcement are used:
- fiberglass;
- aluminum.
Perforated aluminum sheet is used for reinforcement. They cover the product on the outside or insert it in the middle to separate the existing layers of polypropylene.
The glass fiber layer is always inside and separates the polypropylene layers.
Thanks to aluminum reinforcement, reinforced polypropylene pipes for heating receive additional properties. They are able to withstand a lot of internal pressure. When installing the heating system, if the value of the future pressure is unknown, it is better to use materials that have an aluminum frame.
Polypropylene pipes reinforced with aluminum of the PPR-AL-PPR type have several positive qualities:
- greater rigidity;
- able to withstand very high pressure;
- are not deformed.
The value of the pipe diameter affects the thickness of the aluminum layer. It fluctuates between 0.1 - 0.5 mm.
The connection of polypropylene with aluminum foil is carried out with a special adhesive. Pipes may begin to delaminate if the adhesive was of poor quality. PP products, reinforced with aluminum, obtained in compliance with all technological requirements, remain sealed for a long time.
When installing PP products reinforced with aluminum, several additional operations are required. Before you start soldering, you need to clean the aluminum layer well.
If this is not done, the pipeline will quickly fail. During soldering, the plastic and aluminum foil will begin to delaminate. Electrochemical processes will begin to destroy aluminum, which is unacceptable.
PP products reinforced with fiberglass differ in one important feature. The composition of the reinforcing layer, as well as its properties, are exactly the same as those of the base material.
When polypropylene with fiberglass is welded to a fitting, a very strong alloy is formed that will never delaminate. These products are versatile and very durable. They are designed for long-term use.
What to look for when choosing polypropylene pipes
The main selection criteria for such products should be their technical characteristics.
Operating pressure
Marked on the outer surface in the form of the inscription "PN". The pressure value is selected in accordance with the individual characteristics of the heating system. If constant water hammers are observed or it will be necessary to compress the pipeline system often, the polypropylene product "PN20" will be optimal.
If the heating of the coolant in the heating system exceeds 70 degrees, PN25 pipes reinforced with fiberglass will be more suitable. When autonomous heating is used, usually the pressure does not exceed 10 atmospheres. To mount such a heating system, you can use PN20 polypropylene pipelines with solid aluminum reinforcement.
The coolant and its normal temperature
Depending on the installed heating system, appropriate polypropylene pipes are selected. Since in the "warm floor" the temperature of the coolant does not exceed 40 degrees, it is possible to install products with any reinforcement. You can use products from monocomposition.
Where radiators are installed, and the heating of the coolant reaches 85 degrees, you can safely install polypropylene pipes with any type of reinforcement.
Pipeline diameter
This parameter is very important for the normal operation of the heating system. It must fully satisfy the requirements of the system. The inner opening of the pipe must freely pass the corresponding flow of the coolant for a certain time.
In very large rooms, such as hotels, pipes with a diameter exceeding 200 mm are installed.
In individual buildings, it is enough to install PP pipes with a cross section of 20-32 mm. They are easily mounted with the formation of the desired bend.
Reinforced PP pipes for heating are often installed in hot water systems. Perfectly withstands high temperatures polypropylene with a cross section of 20 mm. Risers are made of polypropylene products with a diameter of 25-32 mm.
When connected to central heating, 25 mm PP pipes are used.
For the normal functioning of the warm floor, 16 mm products are mounted.
The prefabricated autonomous heating system is assembled from pipes of different diameters.
The tips described above must be taken as a basis, and before buying and installing PP heating pipes, you need to take into account the individual characteristics of the object, and sometimes even the characteristics of individual sections of the system.
For example, when installing the heating of a single-pipe system, the radiators are connected in series. To mount such a ring, you need to use pipes with a diameter of 32-40 mm. Additional taps to radiators are made from a diameter of less than 26 mm.
If a two-pipe system is installed, then heating is carried out according to a completely different principle. The supply line together with the return reduces the pressure in the pipeline. Therefore, pipes with a diameter of less than 30 mm can be installed.
How are PP pipes reinforced with fiberglass installed?
Such work is similar to the connection of solid propylene products. The installation of PP pipes with fiberglass reinforcement is no different from the connection of solid polypropylene products. Installation of such structures is divided into several types:
- With threaded fittings.
- Cold welding.
- diffuse welding.
If threaded fittings are used, the mounting nut is swaged around. The polypropylene pipe is put on top of the fitting and pressed strongly. It turns out a very reliable and tight connection. This option can be used even when creating a pressure pipeline. Difficulties can arise only with pressure on the fitting. Too much force can break the nut.
When using cold welding, a special glue is used. But such a connection cannot be called very reliable. The joint may leak. Therefore, to prevent this from happening, polypropylene couplings are used, the inner surface of which is lubricated with glue. The coupling is inserted into the pipe and wait a while until the glue sets well.
The strength of diffuse welding is comparable to the strength created by a threaded connection. The disadvantage of this technology is the need to have a welding machine. The selection of temperature for soldering depends on the wall thickness of the PP pipe, as well as its diameter.
Conclusion
A polypropylene pipe reinforced with fiberglass is considered the best option for installing an individual heating system in a private house. There are practically no flaws in these high-quality and not very expensive products; they successfully replace metal structures.
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