PEX is a common name given to cross linked polyethylene, which is a chemically composed material used for making tubes and pipes. Due to robust strength and great durability this material is extensively used for making tubes called as 1/2” PEX tubing. The PEX is used for a variety of applications such as radiant floor heating, refrigeration warehouses, internal plumbing systems, over pour and slab. Due to diverse applicability of PEX plumbing it has emerged as of utmost relevance in present times.
Being the most popular size, popular ½” PEX tubing is used for diverse applications. It is available with and without oxygen barriers for use. The ½” PEX tubing without oxygen barrier is similar to other PEX tubing in the assortment with the only difference of that extra half inch that makes it thinner and sleeker. Due to ½” PEX tubing’s high strength and sleek appearance it is widely used in various plumbing and water supplying applications. This qualitative feature found in tubing, is absent in all other sizes of PEX.
A vital thing about plumbing PEX tubing is that it can be conveniently used for all kinds of light residential as well as commercial radiant heating systems. Primary use of these 1/2” PEX tubing with oxygen barrier lies in concrete slab heating for various places like basements, garage, warehouses, and manufacturing departments as well as for other kinds of applications. The 1/2” PEX plumbing with oxygen barrier can be conveniently used for installing various kinds of joints, even if heat transferring aluminum plates are not being used. For this reason, 1/2″ cross-linked pipe is also suitable for installations such as sandwich type which is done in between sub floor and finished floor.
300 to 350 feet is the average circuit length of 1/2” PEX tubing with oxygen barriers which mainly depends on necessities of radiant heating systems. It can vary according to system’s design and elemental requirement. In case a 1/2” PEX tubing is used for snow melting regions then its circuit length would be much less than this. Length of 1/2” PEX tubing also depends on the size of area in which it needs to be installed with it as a larger space would require large circuit length. This length is easy to measure due to less number of joints and freeze breakage units in 1/2” PEX tubing with oxygen barrier.
The 1/2” PEX tubing undergoes a pre pressure test that is vital for checking its strength and tolerance power. Although, the average pressure testing time depends on type of the project for which this 1/2” PEX tubing has to be installed, still the minimum time remains half an hour. Throughout this half hour 1/2” PEX tubing with oxygen barrier is exerted with a pressure rating of 100 psi which is basic level of pressure exerted. There are chances of variations in case of local codes, so it is better to consult a local technician for successful testing of PEX pipe.
Different versions of 1/2” PEX tubing with oxygen barriers are available in market for sale. Some of them range between 300ft 1/2” PEX tubing to 500ft of this tubing. A variation regarding the length of a single roll of this tubing can be found in market place with ease which is from 1200ft, 100ft, 900ft and more. Various lengths of 1/2” PEX tubing has been introduced so that it can be used according to a space with less joints and breakages. Fewer joints favor more supply and flexibility with less dents and breaks that further reduces the cost of repair and maintenance of PEX tubing.
The PEX tubing has been crafted under strict specifications and standards of ASTM F876/877, DIN 4726, CSA B137, and NSF 14. Apart from this there are other authorities also whose certification is significant for usage of PEX tubing for radiant floor and under floor heating applications. The PEX has been listed under IAPMO and UPC norms that have extended its warranty to almost a year on the part of manufacturer. This certification has instilled more confidence in usage of 1/2” PEX tubing for critical activities in various places.
Due to these efficient features, 1/2” PEX tubing is extensively used for a broad range of applications.
Safe and durable PEX fittings for radiant heat applications
PEX pipe fittings and tubing fittings are used to join PEX to PEX bridges, to make connections between PEX and manifold, and to make PEX to other material bridges. The modern radiant heating applications require advanced PEX fittings to circulate the hot water via the floors, ceiling and walls to warm a floor and room. These fittings are quite popular among the plumbers and fitters across the globe due to their multiple features. It is in great demand in the European countries especially. PEX tubing and fittings provide certain innovative and advanced solutions which can be achieved by these fittings only.
The radiant heating applications require a material which can withstand extremely high temperatures in the system. The traditional copper, brass and plastic fittings had some shortcomings which are solved entirely by the use of PEX fittings. Here are some of the points which make it better material over the traditional fitting methods:
- These fittings provide better installation than any other material. The main reason behind this is the flexibility and durability that is offered by this material. There are lesser joints involved in the making their connections; hence there is less number of water leakage joints in the radiant heating applications. This will complete the installation process within no time with least expenses on the installation labor.
- These Fittings are quite stable. This means that PEX pipe fittings once applied on the working area stays for a long time. Consumers do not have to spend too much on its maintenance.
- The colored pipes of the PEX pipe fittings are easily identifiable by the plumbers. It enables them to easily pick the pipes associated with hot in-line water lines and cold water lines.
- The material is very strong and unbreakable under the chilled water applications. Most of the materials like copper and brass show cracks under the freezing conditions.
- The PEX fittings are highly resistant to various chemical reactions. The PEX does not combine with various acids used in radiant water heating applications. This property makes it one of the best construction materials for heating systems.
- PEX is highly suitable for bridging PEX to PEX fittings, PEX to other materials and combines well with PEX to manifolds.
PEX fittings are very common in various parts of the Europe due to their multiple features. Consumers get finest quality in cheap rates. PEX is tensile as well as strong primarily due to the polyethylene chemical molecules.
Taco pumps: Highly Effective in Hydronic Applications
The taco water pumps are working with great efficiency over the years. These pumps are highly reliable and energy saving with many innovative and advanced features. The taco pump is the heart of the hot water heat up applications. If these pumps work properly, great utility is offered to people. However, if the pump fails to deliver the required performance, the working of the radiant systems and hydronic applications is adversely affected.
How to change the taco circulator pumps:
It is not easy to change the taco pump. There are few precautions that must be taken while changing such pumps. First of all, switch off the power supply to the taco pump. It is always a good practice to switch off the power before touching any wires. It would be little difficult to change the pump if there are valves on either side of the pump in the piping. The valves will separate the pump from rest of the structure. The mechanic got to find the valves which are closer to either side of the taco pump and close them. The toughest task in removing the pump would be refilling the pump and letting the air out of the piping system.
The taco pumps came in a variety of new models like taco 006 cartridge circulator pumps, Taco 007, Taco 009 and many more. These enhanced models have certainly increased the performance level of the pumps. Various additional features have been added to the motor pumps to serve better.
Taco 006 models are available with a replaceable cartridge which contains the entire moving parts so that customers can repair the pump easily. The parts can be replaced conveniently without changing the whole kit. This pump is designed specially to save energy and increase the job efficiency as well. Taco 006 has high standard capacity output. This pump is self lubricating which means it enables a smooth functioning of the motor all the time. It is made up of bronze and is exceptionally reliable and strong.
Later taco 007 was developed with some advanced features. This pump is manufactured in two metal schemes. It is available in bronze as well as in stainless steel. It produces very less noise and operates quite smoothly.
Taco 009 models were manufactured for domestic water heating purposes and light commercial loop water circulating applications.
These pumps are quite reliable and customers can buy them at affordable prices. These are specially designed for domestic and light commercial water circulation applications.