How PEX Fittings Are Used In Plumbing Arrangements
PEX is a water plumbing system made from high density polyethylene tubes. specific PEX fittings are used to join PEX tubing. PEX tubing is a pliable material that is easier and less costly to install, is resistant to erosion and requires fewer fittings than fixed pipe plumbing schemes.
In cold temps PEX pipes retain their flexibility and do not become delicate and burst. Unlike metal pipes, PEX tubing will not corrode and will not acquire scale. PEX tubing is energy cost-effective as well because they will not conduct heat.
PEX tubing is wrapped in reels. Because spools weigh less than cut metal or plastic pipes, they are easier to store and cost less to ship. Tubing can be unrolled from the spools with no need for coupling fittings. Installation is much quicker and less costly when it does not involve the running of pipe.
There are a variety of joining methods utilized in installing PEX systems. Some of these techniques are proprietary and several require specific tools. Basically, the fitting is positioned over the tube or in the tube and then a ring is crimped around the tube or fitting forming a tight fit. The rings can be made of various metals or plastic depending on he joining method.
The tools you will use when installing PEX are a PEX pipe cutter, a main crimping tool and a de-crimping tool. The PEX pipe cutter comes in different sizes for 1/2″ and 3/4″ size tubes. Rings are crimped utilizing the crimping tool. The de-crimping tool is utilized for removing rings from pipes or fittings.
Fittings can be constructed of brass, bronze, copper or engineered plastic but the most popular material in PEX plumbing is brass. The fittings have ridges designed to form a tight fit. When the ring is crimped over the tube or fitting a high-pressure seal is formed.
Utilizing the system of PEX fittings in addition to PEX tubing has definite advantages over metal and plastic piping. It is less pricey than rigid plastic and copper piping . It can be put in right from the spools. It involves less fittings. It last longer due to it is not susceptible to corroding.
