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

Technical standards for this type of equipment are largely superior to PP tubes unarmed and successfully compete with reinforced aluminum.

Reinforced fiberglass polypropylene pipes are marked with PPR-FB-PPR or PPR / PPR-GF / PPRwhere FB labeling (fiber) and GF - Glass Fiber means the presence of fiberglass, and the PPR is a versatile polypropylene brand that has been successfully used in hot water heating and systems.

Accordingly, the labeling, pipes are three-layer products: polypropylene - Fiberglass - Polypropylene.

But due to the fact that they are produced on coextrusion technology (jet connection different materials in a single holistic structure almost at the molecular level), layers are not glued, for example, during the reinforcement of aluminum.

That is, with their multi-layered the equipment is homogeneous and does not have the ability to bundle.

Plastic glues the glass fibers, or fiber in the center, and subsequently they do not allow deformation of a sufficiently soft polypropylene.

Due to this design, reinforced fibrovolok PP pipes are harder easy. This complicates the installation procedure to some extent, but reduces the risk of sagging and allows the samples of smaller diameter for heating and plumbing systems.

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

Thickness and the amount of reinforcing composition is calculated in accordance with GOST standards. Fiberglass elements do not penetrate into an outer layer, where they would interfere with welding compounds or internal, which would lead to sanitation standards. Lack of metal eliminates the appearance of stiffery salts - So, all compounds become literally monolithic.

In the manufacture of fiber fiber is painted in different colors, but they are not an indicator of any operational or technical characteristics. According to the sizes, they correspond to the rest of the reinforced PP pipes.What allows you to use standard fittings and replace individual sections of pipelines from the material of the old sample.

Advantages and disadvantages

Of the design deficiencies of the reinforced fiber tubes from propylene, it is possible to note only that compared to models, enhanced aluminum, the coefficient of expansion is slightly higher - by 5-6%.

But compared to unarmed it is below three, by 75%, What allows you to increase the distance between the mounts and reduces the installation cost. As well as:

• They are much thinner than those who are unnecessary PP pipes, which is very relevant when conducting them in the walls, while the conductivity of the coolant is higher by 20%.
• The fiberglass layer will not give the pipeline to break through, which provides wear resistance and an increase in durability - up to 50 years.
• Strength and density of connections do not require regular maintenance.
• Thanks to good insulation properties there is no condensation, And the loss of heat is minimal.
• A small thermal expansion maximally reduces the risk of damage.
• In addition, during installation they do not require calibration and strippingwhat is needed for pipes reinforced foil From aluminum.
• The thermal conductivity corresponds to the indicators of ordinary PP pipes and lower than that of enhanced aluminum.
• Cases of solidification of Al polypropylene products are known, which is excluded in fiberglass coextrusion.
• All materials are non-toxic and completely harmless.
• Have a small weight, differ simplicity of installation. It is connected in any way - the soldering fuse or butt, threaded or flange connection.
• Chemical stability allows you to withstand even poor-quality coolant.
• High passability due to the smooth inner surface, respectively, and the lack of deposits.
• Pipe elastic, abrasive-resistant and low noiseDifferent with durability to increase pressure.
• Hold the temperature values \u200b\u200bin the range -10 - +95 Celsius.
• When achieving and even exceeding critical marks FB pipe can expand and cross, but not burst.

True, some causes concern the possibility of fiber fiber particles into the water. To avoid such a likelihood, pipes can be treated with a carrier - this will exclude the contact of the reinforcing layer with water.

Criterias of choice

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

PN-10 with a wall of 1.9 - 10 mm - are designed for a temperature of up to 45 degrees, that is, applicable only in systems. Thin-walled, withstand pressure up to 1 MPa or 10 atm. Can be used for arrangement, but taking into account temperature mode . The diameter inside and outside - 16.2 - 90 mm, 20 - 110 mm.

PN-20 with a wall of 16 - 18.4 mm is most in demand, as practically universal. Suitable for X / g of water supply, heating, equipment of warm floors. It is maintained to 95 Celsius and pressure of 20 atmospheres. Have excellent bandwidth, used in private and comfortable houses, public institutions, enterprises. The diameter inside and outside - 10.6 - 73.2 mm, 16-110 mm.

PN-25 with wall in 4 - 13.3 mm - designed for the arrangement of risers, heating and water supply systems, warm floors, for industrial purposes. Pressure when working - 25 atmospheres, temperature - 95 degrees. Not susceptible to thermal deformation. The diameter inside and outside - 13.2 - 50 mm, 21.2 - 77.9 mm.

When choosing polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass, for mounting the heating system it is necessary to repel from your own requirements and product specifications:

• Maximum temperature testimony;
• Nominal pressure;
• Diameter.

Accordingly, the most suitable polypropylene tubes with fiberglass for heating are PN-20 and PN-25 C D 16 - 40 mm, for warm floors - all three types. To perform a liner to radiators optimal models with a diameter of 20 to 24 mm. When installing the pipes of a smaller size of the inner seam, which is formed during the soldering, can become an obstacle to free flow of water.

For risers, it is necessary to choose samples with a size of at least 32 mm, otherwise the inner diameter will be small for full circulation. Pipes with D 40, due to massiveness, are more often used for hidden installation.

Based on the above, it can be concluded that the pipeline is propylene with the GF layer - nearly perfect option not only for sewer or plumbing, but also for the heating system.

In addition fiberglass is an anti-infusional barriernot allowing oxygen penetration. Diffusion is fraught with acceleration of corrosive processes of all metal equipment - pumps, boilers, etc.

This is especially rapidly happening in water waters with high temperature - hot water supply, heating.

Unnamed PP pipes such a property can not boast. In many criteria, they are significantly inferior to reinforced fiber film, especially relative to heating systems - polypropylene pipes without reinforcement are thicker, weaker, prone to deformation.

As is known, to improve the pipelines of hot water or heating systems, the use of standard polypropylene or polyethylene pipes is impossible, since the plastic is not able to withstand the required temperature load.

However, the use of more traditional products from metals and alloys (copper, steel, etc.) is also undesirable - they are quite expensive and have too much weight, imperative installation and repair of the contour. In this case, a modern solution comes to the rescue - reinforced with fiberglass polypropylene pipes, combining lightness of plastic and reliability of alloys. It is the RVC pipe that has such characteristics.

Pros and cons of polypropylene products

Advantages of ordinary polypropylene (PPR) pipes:

• low cost - the price of such products is significantly less than products from metals and alloys;
• strength;
• low weight - polymer products are much easier than a similar metallic;
• resistance to low temperature values;
• chemical neutrality to most aggressive media - acids, alkalis, oil and gas production, salt solutions;
• lack of corrosive threat.

Disadvantages of simple pipes:

1. The slight value of the upper temperature threshold is to melt the polypropylene pipes begin when the mark of 175 ° C is reached, and it softens 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 90-95 ° C; However, when combining two parameters - increased pressure and high operating temperature - the damage obtained by pipes from the coolant becomes more significant, therefore, the risk of damage is increasing.
2. Next to expand significantly with increasing thermal load. To a greater extent, this concerns the length of the products: the length of the pipes increases greatly, wave-like lines appear on the surface. This is not only ugly, but also carries the threat of depressurization of the contour or damage to the walls of the walls or floor, up to cracking of fragile materials - plaster or cement.

This conventional problem is not solved, even the installation of compensators is not fully effective. The most logical solution is the use of fiberglass reinforced plastic pipes. Characterizing all the positive properties of high-molecular compounds, and in addition to high 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 applied:

• aluminum foil;
• fiberglass.

In this case, the aluminum plate can be used in different options: in perforated or solid form, act as an outer coating or located in the middle of the products, between the layers of the polymer. Fiberglass placed certainly inside plastic reinforced pipes.

It should also be noted that the increase in aluminum allows products to withstand greater pressure inside the system, so if the working pressure is not known or too high, it is better to use this particular option.

The characteristics of the reinforced pipe foils (denoted by PPR-Al-PPR):

• increased rigidity of products, resistance to mechanical loads and all types of deformation;
• the thickness of the layer of the reinforcing metal is 0.1-0.5 mm (variables depending on the size of the pipe cross section);
• the method of combining aluminum and plastic - glue, on the quality of which depends on the quality of products;
• magnificent tightness that does not decrease over time.

Installation of pipes with an aluminum layer is conjugate with some technological difficulties: before soldering or welding individual elements Metal layer on the ends need to be cleaned. Failure to comply with this recommendation will lead to a rapid loss of the construction of the structure - due to the first place, the separation of polymer and metal during heat treatment, in the second - due to the electrochemical damage of aluminum.

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

• the reinforcing material in nature and characteristics is quite similar to the main polymer;
• before welding or soldering, there is no need to clean the ends;
• during the heat treatment process, fiberglass and alloy not only are not separated, but, on the contrary, form a stronger connection.

Based on this, reinforced with fiberglass pipe - in most cases the ideal solution for the design of pipelines of various technological orientation.

Characteristics of fiberglass reinforced

As it is easy to guess, such products have three layers: two polypropylene and one reinforcing, consisting of the same material in a mixture with fiber fibers (fiberglass). Due to the almost the same composition, such a three-layer design is almost equivalent to monolithic.

Characteristics of fiberglass reinforced polypropylene pipes:

• full absence of corrosion threat;
• the wonderful smoothness of the inner surface of the products opposing the accumulation of deposits and, as a result, the occurrence of blockages;
• increased mechanical strength of products;
• lack of threat of longitudinal or transverse deformation when increasing the internal temperature of the system;
• chemical and biological neutrality - both aggressive environments and vital waste;
• a small hydraulic resistance, therefore, the value of pressure losses is reduced to a minimum;
• good noise reduction;
• no way affect the properties of the supplied water, therefore, are absolutely safe for the health of people;
• long service life - with proper installation and operation - at least 50 years.

As for the dimensional characteristics of the reinforced fiberglass pipes, the following diameters are most popular:

• up to 17 mm - are used for a warm floor;
• up to 20 mm - for home water pipes hot water;
• 20-25 mm - Such pipes with fiberglass for heating indoors common use And when installing sewage risers.

To secure the pipes of a smaller diameter, it is quite enough clips from plastic, for products of large sections it is necessary to use clamps.

Installation of pipes with fiberglass

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

Three methods of fastening products can be distinguished:

1. With carving fittings.
2. With cold welding (i.e., special glue).
3. Thermal welding (soldering).

The first embodiment is made as follows: the end of the pipe is stretched into the fitting of the connecting element and is crimped in a circle by mounting nut. The compound on reliability (strength and tightness) is not inferior to the third method, it is permissible to apply even when designing pipelines of pressure type. The only drawback is with an unimaginable application effort when twisting the mounting nut, it can simply burst.

In the case of cold welding, the glue uses the speed of creation of a joint, but not reliability. When installed on the inner surface of the polypropylene coupling, glue composition is applied, then the end of the pipe joined; The connection is still kept that the glue has time to frost.

When welding with welding machine It is warmed up surfaces of pipes and connecting couplings; After the compound, they form a single polymer mass. Such a connection is most durable and hermetically.

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

For communications systems in a residential building, it is always in the first place that the reliability and simplicity of the design are always. In order for in the apartment, a cold and hot water system operated in the apartment or at the cottage, it worked to fully the heating equipment, it is necessary to properly and correctly pave the pipeline. Here on the top plan, the engineering and technological element, on which the entire system of water and heat supply is also based. Choosing the pipe heating system, you have to consider literally every trifle, starting with technological parameters, ending with the material used and the manufacturer's method.

The complexity of the task is that today the consumer has pipes for heating the most different types and species. , a new type of consumed material, which is successfully used for laying household pipelines. For mounting the heating system, with fiberglass or reinforced by aluminum is "know-how" recent years. Cheap, reliable, practical and convenient consumables.

Are synthetic consumables assigned to the system of heating tasks? How much polypropylene tubes reinforced with fiberglass are reliable, how to make a purchase? With these questions should be dealt with more details.

What is reinforced polypropylene pipes

Going into the past system of communications of life support, in which metal pipes are used. Despite the fact that metal consumables are characterized by high strength and are quite reliable in operation, high cost of material and complex installation influenced the fact that interest in such materials is noticeably weak on the household level. As an alternative metal pipes The consumer today is focused on reinforced synthetic consumables.

In the process of manufacturing products, polypropylene is enhanced by adding special components to the structure. As a result, at the exit we have a completely different, qualitatively new consumable material - reinforced polypropylene tubes. Reinforcement is traditional way mechanical strengthening of communications. Due to the inclusion in the polypropylene channel of synthetic fibers in the form of a braid, it was possible to significantly increase the strength and rigidity of the material. Reinforcement is performed, both in the middle of the product itself and on the inside. Internal reinforcement is extremely rare, but the inclusion in the structure of the finished product of an additional median fiberglass layer - the technology is quite common.

On a note: Reinforcement on the inner wall of the pipe is not appropriate. The likelihood of the emergence of blocks is high due to the formation on the walls of the inner channel of salt sediments. The quality of water used for household purposes, including heat supply, is not always perfect.

Having come to replace metal pipes, polypropylene reinforced consumables drastically changed all the technology of laying pipelines of the heat supply system. Synthetic material is not inferior to the metal, resistant to corrosive processes and well copes with temperature drops.

Especially the consumer bribe the fact that, reinforced and reinforced with fiberglass are suitable for heating any premises. Polypropylene consumables are able to effectively interact with practically with any types heating equipment and heating equipment.

The cost of such products is an order of magnitude less than the metallic, copper or metal-plastic pipelines cost. This aspect is particularly important in cases where it comes to the organization of the heating system throughout the house. In the houses and in the apartments of a large area, in two-storey residential buildings, the use of synthetic reinforced channels allows you to literally ignore the network of pipelines all the building. The length of the pipeline made of synthetic materials in some cases reaches several hundred meters. With other products of such luxury, you will not allow yourself trying to save on every centimeter.

For reference: The length of the heat supply system in a private residential building with an area of \u200b\u200b100 m 2 is about 100 meters, taking into account the return. Compare the cost of reinforced polypropylene pipes necessary for laying a pipeline of such lengths and prices for metal products or metal-plastic.

Let's summarize. Reinforcement is carried out in order to give the polypropylene tube necessary strength. Why fiberglass used for this purpose. The answer is simple. Fiberglass, inserted into the middle, is impregnated with an elastic plastic mass, creating together with the surrounding outer and outer layers of polypropylene. As a result, the necessary integrity of the product is achieved. Due to the inclusion in the structure of the pipe layer of fiberglass, it was possible to significantly reduce the thickness of the inner wall, while retaining the main working channel diameter.

On a note: Aluminum reinforced, polypropylene tubes can be separated over time. Frequent sharp discharge temperature of the coolant becomes the cause of such a negative phenomenon.

Features of polypropylene consumables reinforced with fiberglass

For home heating system the most important parameter - It is simplicity of operation and long service life. The functionality of each component and element of the heating system determines the level of comfort and the degree of reliability of the equipment. What is the main thing when installing the heating system in the house? Durability and convenient operation. By installing the heating system in the house, we want to do so that the whole range of equipment work is autonomously, without our participation.

They may so much in this regard. The accounting of thermal calculations and features of operation will provide a long and uninterrupted operation of the home heating system. Required synthetic consumables used in heating communications are designed for 20-25 years of service.

Stability of corrosive processes, the ability to withstand high pressure and significant temperature differences make synthetic highways and communications are very convenient and practical in operation. The permissible temperature range for such a material is: -10 0 С +90 0 C, which is especially important when equipped with autonomous heating. Not scary polypropylene with fiberglass and freezing. In the freezing of the coolant in the system, synthetic highways, in contrast to metal products, retain the form, structure and integrity.

Synthetic, reinforced with fiberglass, pipes are an excellent dielectric, and when contact with fire, polypropylene is not toxic and decomposed on water vapor and carbon. Along with the features listed, synthetic water channels based on fiberglass, possess other advantages. For instance:

• simple, fast and convenient installation;
• laying pipes does not require special skills and specialization;
• the strength of the seams allows you to use even pieces of pipes in the mounting, minimizing waste;
• interchangeability of individual elements in case of damage to the pipeline;
• affordable material price.

And the most important advantage that reinforced polypropylene tubes possess, the lack of the effect of providing the pipeline.

Important! For conventional polypropylene pipes, the savings effect is a significant disadvantage. Polymers are characteristic of having a high thermal expansion coefficient. When contacting with a hot heat carrier, polymers acquire additional elasticity, begin to change their structure.

Fiberglass or aluminum give the polypropylene tubes the necessary stability during heating. Pipelines for hot water or heating systems are withstanding temperature loads without losing their main technological parameters. In addition, reinforced synthetics and fittings are perfectly combined with any options for finishing the interior. The pipeline of the heating system can be laid inside the walls, significantly increasing the useful volume of interior.

Types of reinforced polypropylene pipes. Marking products

At the moment, the market of consumables for heating systems is characterized by a wealth of choice. Attention deserves marking of products, thanks to which we can get all the necessary information about the operating parameters of the pipe and operational capabilities. For polypropylene reinforced pipes, marking plays a key role. Based on the information, we will be able to correctly and unmistakably choose the desired view, the type of product.

Let's start with the classification of polypropylene tubes, which is built on the variety of products. Synthetic consumables are divided into the following types:

• The first type - products made of homopolypropylene have a PPH index (H - homopolymer). For this type, high strength are characteristic. They are usually used in cold water systems.
• The second type is the pipes, which includes a block copolymer (B - block copolymer). These consumables are marked with PPB indexes and can be used in low-temperature heating systems (warm water floors).
• Third type, most common. Products are used for intra-round heating and hot water supply. PPR pipes are labeled, where R is a copolymer random. Usually this type of product is made reinforced. The C existing label is added to the letter C, which means the overestimated requirements for temperature jumps (up to 95 0 s).

The European PP abbreviation corresponds to the Russian-speaking version of PP, which means polypropylene.

Next, after the designations of the product accessories to the type of material, there are notes that characterize the value of the nominal working pressure. For this purpose, PN indices are used. On the household level, for the water supply system and heating systems, reinforced pipes with PN20, PN25 indices are commonly used. These two types are optimally suitable for heating systems, both for a centralized heating option and complete with individual heating devices. The difference is that the products with the PN20 index are reinforced with fiberglass, and with the PN25 index have an aluminum layer.

Important! In contrast to conventional polypropylene consumables, both options, and PN20 and PN25 have a low thermal expansion coefficient. In products reinforced with fiberglass, this indicator is 5-7% higher than that of the foil polypropylene tube.

Required quality, compliance with the stated parameters can be obtained by purchasing original, branded products. The price is aspect on the basis of which it is possible to determine the fake from the branded consumable material. The reinforcing component - fiberglass can be of different colors, orange, blue, red or green. No role in the color scheme does not play. Some manufacturers in addition to existing symbols are applied along the surface of the pipeline:

• the red strip, the scope of use - pipelines with hot water or heat carrier;
• blue band, products are used for cold water supply;
• two colors - the versatility of the highway.

It seems that the standard marking on the product looks like this.

Conclusion. Laying pipes and installation features

Having ideas about what is best to take components for the heating system, it is worth a few words to say about the features of laying polypropylene highways and the specifics of the installation of pipelines.

With the help of calculations, you can get an idea of \u200b\u200bwhat length should buy pipes and in what quantity. Already in the process of laying the pipeline, the material cuts into fragments in accordance with the necessary dimensions. Consumables are carried out by special scissors.

Important! Polypropylene channels are easy enough, it can be concluded from here. Transportation and installation of finished products must be carried out by observing precautions. Any significant mechanical effort can lead to a violation of the integrity of the product.

Where is the high probability of mechanical damage to the pipeline, it is better to install metal fragments.

It is believed that polypropylene tubes are environmentally friendly and safe, so the place of laying the pipeline can be chosen in accordance with the technological necessity. However, before installing, it is better to have a better calculated data on the feed rate of the coolant, the power of the pressure and the heating temperature. Estimated data should not exceed the permissible operational parameters for the selected brand of goods. Otherwise, a technological inconsistency may occur, the result of which the emergency is becoming.

The installation of the pipeline is carried out taking into account the coefficient of thermal expansion, which for consumables with fiberglass slightly larger (by 5-6%) than that of products with an aluminum insert. Sliced \u200b\u200bfragments are connected to a single highway, using diffuse spike, using fittings, couplings, corners, tees and adapters for connections and branches. Reinforced pipes are soldered in the same way as conventional polypropylene products. The material is easy to combine with metal elements that have a threaded connection.

At the moment, the ratio of price and quality in pipeline products from polypropylene is the best among other consumables. Strength, reliability and durability make it easy enough, without special skills and effort, carry out the gasket of the pipeline of the heating system in the house.

Polypropylene tubes are environmentally friendly, in many properties show themselves above the steel. They are more technologically, the price of them below, they do not need to be protected from corrosion, the process of connecting them into a pipeline is much less time-consuming, the service life is significantly higher.

For heating are used mainly reinforced fiberglass or aluminum polypropylene pipes. This is due to the fact that the temperature of the coolant in the heating systems can reach 100 degrees Celsius. With such a temperature, unarmed pipes are laid on clips will be linearly lengthened and saving that it requires introducing compensators to the pipeline.Polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass, have a linear expansion coefficient five times less than unarmed. Their seizing is significantly less, which allows you to install clips at a greater distance from each other.

Historically, the first reinforced polypropylene tubes were pipes reinforced non-fiberglass, but applied along the surface by a layer of aluminum. Their price is slightly higher compared to unarmed. But they have one inconvenience - before installation, such pipes must be cleaned with aluminum, and this is quite painstaking work, which increases the time for assembling the pipeline. In the pipes reinforced fiberglass, the reinforcing layer is bueled inside the design, which does not require such a stripping before they are connected.

Reinforced polypropylene pipes, price which is approximately the same, as well as coated with aluminum, have more thermal resistance, since metal is missing in their design. In view of this, they can be insulated with tubes from energy flow or K-Flex-A with a thickness of the walls somewhat less than pipes with aluminum.

In the warehouse of the organization there are in the presence of fiberglass reinforced polypropylene tubes. External diameter from 20 to 110 mm.

Any heating system of water type involves the presence of contours through which the coolant circulation is carried out. These pipe highways associate a boiler with all, to the most remote, heat exchange devices - heating radiators. As a result, a general system can take a very complex branched species in the building or even an apartment of a large area, and the length of the pipes are laid is made up dozens or even hundreds of meters.

Not so long ago, there has been almost no alternative to steel pipes VGP. But, you agree, their acquisition, transportation and installation itself is very difficult, the most and not available for independent execution of the event. And, frankly, other disadvantages of such pipes - a lot. Another thing is inexpensive, light, easy to install, and just externally cute polypropylene tubes. True, not all their varieties are suitable for such purposes, due to the characteristics of the material of the manufacture. But the polypropylene tubes reinforced with fiberglass for heating will become an excellent option.

Perhaps you will be interested in information about what happens and their advantages

In addition to them, polypropylene pipes are made and with aluminum reinforcement, therefore, in order to understand which one is better, it is worth a comparison. Only thus the opportunity to estimate and designate the characteristic features of different types of these products.

Why is reinforced polypropylene pipes need for heating?

The heating system will be reliable in operation, if it is formed to choose the "right" pipes that meet certain requirements. Such criteria include the stability of products to high temperature and bary loads. To the aggressive impact of the coolant circulating on them. It is especially important to take into account these requirements if the pipes and their connecting elements are planned to be installed in the system connected to the central heat supply.

In specialized stores, reinforced polypropylene pipes, having different wall thicknesses made from different materials, differing in resistance to elevated pressure and temperatures, ultraviolet exposure, which have a different linear extension coefficient. Therefore, if it is decided to mount a new outline or replace the pipes of the old on polypropylene, it is necessary to know the estimated criteria that materials applied to these purposes.

So, for the installation of the heating circuit, it is necessary to choose pipes that meet a variety of important requirements.

• The temperature of the coolant in the central heating system is usually 75 ÷ 80 degrees, but sometimes it can achieve higher indicators close to 90 ÷ 95 ºС. Therefore, acquiring these products, it is worth choosing them with a margin of thermal stability, that is, in their characteristics a temperature of at least 95 degrees should be indicated.
• Polypropylene is a wonderful material for pipes, but it has characteristic quality - a too significant linear extension coefficient when the temperature changes (according to the table data - 0.15 mm / m × ºС). Little? And what if you look at this case "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 feed pipe is planned even only 75 ºС. So, we have a differential with an amplitude of + 55 degrees. With the above thermal expansion coefficient, each meter of our circuit will increase in length by 8.25 mm. Even on a relatively small straight line of 3 meters, it will already give 2.5 centimeters of elongation, not to mention the longer sections. But this is already very serious!

As a result, the pipes located openly, deform, bend, jump out of their clips fasteners. Naturally, the internal stresses in their walls are growing, the connecting nodes are overloaded, the tightness of the threaded connections on the fittings can be disturbed. The system clearly loses not only in the aesthetics of its kind, but also in general reliability.

And what happens to such pipes, if they are rigidly embedded in the walls or gender? It is even difficult to imagine how large internal stresses are experiencing their walls. It is clear that there is no durability of such a heating circuit - even speech does not go.

Perhaps you will be interested in information about what is better -

But in the reinforced pipes, the linear expansion coefficient is practically less than less. With the same initial data, the three-meter area will be lengthened by only 4.95 mm, which is not already critical at all. Of course, it does not eliminate the need to compensate for the linear expansion on very long segments, but the compensators themselves (loop or bellows) are already significantly less, and they can be placed in inaccessible to the places.

• In addition to high temperatures, the central heating system is not distinguished by the stability of the pressure, since especially when the test activities are started after summer seasonIn it, as a rule, uncontrolled horse racing occurs, up to powerful hydrowards. Therefore, only products reinforced by aluminum or fiberglass are resistant to baryic overloads.
• The term of operation of pipes for heating systems should be comparable to the durability of other devices and elements included in the overall contour. And in this position, precisely reinforced polypropylene tubes have an explicit advantage.
• The good property of propylene is inertia to the aggressive medium of the coolant, since the material of the walls should not be subject to corrosion and destructuring from the effects of various chemicals, the presence of which, alas, cannot be excluded in the central heating system.
• The perfectly smooth surfaces of the inner walls of the polypropylene pipes make it possible to freely circulate the heat carrier in the heating circuit.
• Polypropylene has a property of drowning the sounds of circulation of the coolant inside the system, which distinguishes it from traditional steel. The reinforced fiberglass pipes have such advantage in a more pronounced degree.

Marking of polypropylene pipes

Without exception, polypropylene tubes should have alphanumeric marking on their surface, which indicates their main physico-technical and performance characteristics. When purchasing pipes, it is recommended to carefully study the label to not be mistaken with the choice of the optimal option.

For clarity, consider the label on the example:

BUT - As a rule, the marking inscription begins with a logo or company name of the material producer. In any case, those firms that really enjoy authority in this area of \u200b\u200bproduction are not shy to make their name for each one of their products. Well, if the manufacturer "Sorry", and in marking, nothing indicates - this should be a reason to think about whether it is worth buying such a product if he is cheap imitation.

B. - The next abbreviation indicates the structural structure of the pipe. Here are usually there are such designations:

- PPR is a polypropylene tube that does not have any internal reinforcement;

- PPR-FB-PPR - fiberglass reinforced pipe;

- PPR / PPR-GF / PPR or PPR-GF is a pipe reinforced by composite material, which includes fiberglass and polypropylene;

- PPR-AL-PPR is a pipe reinforced by aluminum foil.

- PP-RCT-Al-PPR - This complex abbreviation suggests that the pipe consists of several layers made of different materials. Thus, PP-RCT - the inner is a modified polypropylene with improved thermostatic properties, Al - the middle layer is an aluminum foil, and the PPR is the outer layer - polypropylene.

IN - The following designation, PN is the type of pipe, in many respects speaking of its operational characteristics and spheres of possible purpose, the figures indicate indicator of the nominal working pressure in the system (in bars or technical atmospheres):

- PN-10 - Such pipes withstand pressure in 10 bar, and can be used for cold water supply or, as an exception, for mounting a liner to heat-mounted circuits with maintaining the corresponding temperature mode, since it is designed for a temperature not exceeding + 45 degrees.

- PN-16 - products are designed for cold and hot water supply with a temperature of up to + 60 degrees and a working pressure up to 16 bar.

- PN-20 is the most popular option, since it can be called universal, as it is used, both for hot and cold water supply, as well as for the contours of heating systems. Pipes with such marking withstand the temperature of 95 degrees, and pressure up to 20 bar.

- PN-25 - Such pipes are the most durable, withstand pressure of 25 bar and a temperature of 95 degrees. They are used to install in risers of heating and hot water supply systems, including for contours connected to central heat supply.

The main standard dimensional pipe parameters for this classification are presented in the table below:

Ø Hp, mm	PN -25		PN -20.		PN -16		PN -10.
	Ø VN, mm	TC, MM.	Ø VN, mm	TC, MM.	Ø VN, mm	TC, MM.	Ø VN, mm	TC, 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 pipe diameter
Ø VN - Diameter of the internal pipe channel (conditional passage)
TC - Pipe wall thickness

G. - The following indicator is the outer diameter of the pipe and the thickness of its walls in millimeters.

D.- class of operation (the parameter is installed for the domestic pipes) indicates the recommended area of \u200b\u200bapplication of this type of pipe:

Polypropylene Pipe Operation Class	Fluid temperature (working / maximum), ºC	Purpose Pipe
Kh	up to 20.	Cold Water Supply Systems +
1	60 / 80	Hot water supply system with maximum temperature 60 ºC
2	70 / 80	Hot water system with maximum temperature 70 ºC
3	40 / 60	Floor heating systems with low-temperature operation mode
4	60 / 70	Seat heating systems with high-temperature operation modes, classical heating systems Heating with maximum heat carrier temperatures up to 60 ºC
5	80 / 90	Heating systems with high temperatures, including - with central heating

J. - The latest alphanumeric designation indicates that regulatory document (GOST, ISO or then, according to the standards of which product data is made.

Having received information on the classification of the pipe, you can immediately estimate the possible duration of its operation in the planned conditions. This will help the following table:

The temperature of the coolant, ºС	Estimated service life	Types of pipes
		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 fiberglass reinforced polypropylene pipes

reinforced polypropylene pipes

The structure of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement

As mentioned above, polypropylene pipes are reinforced to give them resistance to elevated temperatures and bary loads and with the aim of a sharp decrease in the indicator of the linear thermal expansion. In order to determine which option it is better to choose - pipe reinforced with aluminum or fiberglass, it is worth a comparison of their basic characteristics.

Fiberglass began to apply to hardening polypropylene pipes much later than aluminum foil. Products reinforced by this material are a three-layer design, and the enhancing layer is located between two layers of polypropylene.

"Aropois" can consist only of fiberglass, or from composite materialcontaining fiberglass and polypropylene. In any of these variants, the layers have an excellent grip, almost becoming a monolithic design.

Thanks to such a reliable spike, the bundle of the walls of a qualitatively manufactured pipe is even theoretically impossible.

Fiberglass perfectly restrains the thermal expansion, which does not give pipes in any way to deform and stretch when increasing the temperature

This type of reinforced polypropylene pipes is made in various dimensional parameters. Thus, products having a diameter less than 17 mm are used mainly for the installation of a "warm floor" system, the pipes Ø 20 mm are well suited for the domestic wiring of hot water supply, and from 20 to 32 mm (sometimes more) - to arrange the contours of heating systems .

The combination of polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement is carried out by welding, sometimes with other mounting methods. Moreover, for welding works This type of pipes does not require a rather time-consuming stripping operation, which greatly facilitates and speeds up work. The absence of metal elements in the design of these pipes eliminates the appearance of sediments of stiffness salts, and the compounds of all parts of the heating system become completely monolithic.

Compare the advantages and disadvantages of fiberglass and aluminum reinforcement of PPR pipes

• The first thing to be to say is that the thermal expansion coefficient in pipes with aluminum and fiberglass reinforcement is almost the same, and is 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 the inner layer of polypropylene. Therefore, these pipes are racks for breaks, reliable and durable, and the estimated life of their operation is about 50 years. In the pipes reinforced with aluminum, the strengthening layer has a welded seam (and sometimes, in low-cost products, even just the connecting edges of the foil are posted), which makes them more vulnerable to elevated temperatures and pressure.
• Fiberglass reinforced pipes are a good anti-infusion layer that does not transmit oxygen to the coolant.

The diffusion process will definitely lead to the acceleration of corrosive processes of metallic equipment of the heating system - this is a boiler, pump, locking fittings and other elements.

Since the products reinforced with aluminum, the foil layer is sometimes not solid, 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 does not require regular control and maintenance. If products are installed with aluminum, the reliability of the connection will depend on the quality of calibration and stripping them before assembly.

The fact is that pipes with an aluminum reinforcing belt are glued wall design. If in the process of soldering on the cut, a metal section in contact with the coolant remained, then it is from here that the wall bundle process can begin. And this, in turn, with a large share of probability will lead to the first to bloating, and then - and to the breakthrough of the body of the pipe.

And in pipes with fiberglass reinforcement, which are practically monolithic design, this "Achilles Fifth" is absent.

Yes, and much faster and easier to carry out the welding of pipes without stripping, especially since the special tool (shaver) is not required for these purposes.

• Fiberglass reinforced pipes have good thermal insulation qualities that minimizes thermal losses. The pipes, fortified by aluminum foil, thermal conductivity is somewhat higher.
• All materials used in the manufacture of polypropylene reinforced pipes for heating are non-toxic and do not distinguish harmful evaporation both in cold form and when heated. This applies equally to both types of pipes.
• Not much different and resistance to chemical impacts, which allows both types to withstand the "aggression" of the poor-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 said, the pipe can be slightly saved, but damage should not be damaged.

Based on the considered data characteristics, it can be concluded that the optimal option for mounting into the heating system for the coolant liner to radiators is PN-20 and PN-25 pipes with diameters from 20 ÷ 25 mm. But when installing pipe heating system with a smaller diameter, the inner seam formed during the soldering process can prevent the free current of the coolant.

For installation of risers, pipes with a diameter of at least 32 mm are usually selected, otherwise it can also be small for the full movement of the coolant. The collector sites of the system can also use larger diameters - the range of products presented on sale allows.

You may be interested in information about what suitable

Manufacturers of polypropylene pipes reinforced with fiberglass

At the end of the publication - a small overview of high-quality polypropylene pipes with fiberglass reinforcement, domestic and imported production, which earned positive reviews of professionals.

"Metak"

"Metak" is a Russian company producing various products from polypropylene for heating and cold water supply systems, including pipes reinforced with fiberglass, under the Metak Fiber brand. This product is great for installation in highly loaded heating systems.

Pipes are made in white decoration, have a maximum operating temperature of 95 degrees, designed for working pressure at 25 bar with a destructive - 50 bar.

Fiberglass reinforced polypropylene three-layer pipes of Metak and connecting parts for them (fittings) are produced in accordance with GOST, they are used to install pipelines of cold and hot water supply, warm floors, layout of systems and technological pipelines, so they can have different diameters.

This table provides information on the sizes of the pipes produced by this company with fiberglass reinforcement. Common for all products is a length that is 4000 mm.

Outer diameter of the pipe, 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 perfectly suitable for heating systems. country houses and apartments in high-rise buildings. All products "Metak" meets all domestic and European standards and requirements established for this product, as they are manufactured 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 pipes from polypropylene intended for pressure water pipes For the supply of cold drinking water, hot water supply and heating systems. The company produces polypropylene tubes and fittings to them only gray, with reinforcing aluminum and fiberglass layers.

"FV Plast" One of the first to begin to produce products reinforced with fiberglass - this model range of products 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 temperature increases to 90 degrees.
• System operating pressure - 20 bar.
• Maximum allowable pressure - 36 bar.
• The life of the products declared by the manufacturer is 25 ÷ 50 years.

In addition to the pipes themselves, the company represents on the market all the necessary components of items to them, which allows the material from one manufacturer to create contours of heating of any complexity with the guaranteed provision of its reliability.

Perhaps you will be interested in information about what is represented by

"Kalde"

"Kalde" is the Turkish leading manufacturer of modern heating and water systems collected from pipes and components PPR. The material of this company is characterized by maximum protection against growths and pollution inside the pipes throughout the term of operation of reliable, light, durable, comfortable and economical systems "Kalde" inert to corrosion and chemical exposure. Produced in the widest range of diameters - from 20 to 110 mm.

Kalde Fiber is a three-layer tube with an outer white surface made of polypropylene and fiberglass reinforced. It is distinguished by excellent heat resistance, with the upper boundary of the temperature of the coolant, reaching up to 95 degrees. Even at such a temperature in a pressure system not exceeding 10 bar, the manufacturer decorates the service life of at least 50 years.

Prices for polypropylene pipes Kalde

reinforced Polypropylene Pipes Kalde

In addition to the above, the company also produces polypropylene tubes of different types:

• PN10 and PN20 made from polypropylene, PPRC. - without inner reinforcement.
• PN20 and PN25 reinforced by aluminum foil - pipes for heating and heat supply, air conditioning systems and similar industrial use.
• Al-Super is a polypropylene, reinforced on an average layer of aluminum foil pipe that does not require torching and stripping.

The range of components "Kalde" is very diverse and is provided for different, even the most complex heating circuits.

"Banninger"

"Banninger" is a German company producing products that differ in real European quality and indisputable reliability in operation. The company produces polypropylene pipes and a complete set of necessary components to them for mounting the contours of heating, hot and cold water supply. A distinctive feature It is an unusual, emerald green color of polypropylene tubes "Banninger".

Products are distinguished by high plasticity, so calmly react to high and low temperatures. The parameters of polypropylene parts are selected, taking into account studies on fatigue qualities of the material, during operation for 50 years, at a constant temperature of 70 degrees and pressure up to 10 bar.

In the range of companies polypropylene pipes without reinforcing materials, as well as with aluminum and fiberglass layers. Under this article, the samples of the "Watertec series » and "climatec". Their use will provide the heating circuit guaranteed indicators and durability.

A few words in conclusion

At the conclusion of the topic, I would like to recommend, do not acquire pipes of unknown manufacturers, who do not even mention the name of their firm in the marking of products. A little saved, you can buy a product that will not serve and one heating season, by summing up at the most inopportune moment. In such a situation, you will have to lay out a much more serious amount for the replacement of the pipes of the heating system, repairing its own and, possibly, a neighbor apartment.

Another small remark. One of the most frequently asked questions is the following: "What information bears the color located in the wall of the reinforcing layer pipe". The answer to it is simple - no. The color of reinforcement is rather a "capricious" manufacturer, the desire to highlight its products on a general background.

By and large, any polypropylene tube reinforced with fiberglass is already designed for operation in high temperatures. So there will be a red, green, blue or gray reinforcing, green, blue or gray - no meaning. The main information is in the alphanumeric labeling of the pipe and in its technical documentation, with which, by the way, do not forget to get acquainted in the store when choosing a material.

And finally, for "consolidation" of the received information about polypropylene tubes - see the added video attached below:

Video: Recommendations on the correct choice of polypropylene pipes

You may be interested in information on how to choose

Evgeny Afanasyevchief Editor

Publication author14.10.2016