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Metal pipelines for water are gradually being squeezed out of the market. They are replaced by polypropylene pipes for cold and hot water supply, the service life of which is much higher, as the manufacturers themselves assure. The editors of the site dealt with the issue of choosing products for water supply in detail and determined by what parameters it is best to choose them and how to professionally connect them.

There is a wide range of polypropylene products on the market.

Polypropylene pipes for cold and hot water supply: scope

Today, polypropylene pipes are very common in various areas:

The opinion that any polypropylene pipe is suitable for water supply is erroneous. Manufacturers produce several types of products, each of them has its own role. Polypropylene products are designated by the letters "PP".

When constructing new water pipes, you can immediately give preference to this product, and not choose between polypropylene and metal. Also, the products are widely used if it is necessary to replace an outdated water supply system. The most common application for intra-house and intra-apartment networks.

Advantages and disadvantages of polypropylene pipes

It should be noted that this type of product has a lot of advantages. That is why she gained popularity so quickly. Main advantages:

• resistance to corrosion;
• resistance to acids and biologically active substances;
• lack of reaction allows you to get the output clean water without impurities, iron content, retained its color and taste;
• the water pressure is stable, since the hydraulic resistance inside the product is small;
• installation is very simple, in addition, you can easily create a system of any complexity;
• the material is not afraid of high and low temperatures;
• low cost;
• the reduced level of thermal conductivity avoids heat loss.

Speaking about the material, it is impossible not to note its shortcomings. These include:

• the need to carefully select products for a particular pipeline, otherwise the material will become unusable very quickly, and gaps are not excluded;
• the presence on the market of a large number of cheap low-quality products;
• need to have special device for processing joints and be able to work with it.

There are practically no drawbacks to this type of product. Serious ones are not associated with the pipes themselves, but with defects in their production.

Types of polypropylene pipes

When it is important to understand that for hot water it is necessary to choose one type of product, and for cold water another. The choice of products of the same type is a common mistake, which often causes a system break.

Distinguish products:

• according to the material of manufacture;
• type of reinforcement.

In order to choose the right material, let's get acquainted with the nuances of its production.

According to the material of manufacture

When purchasing pipes for your own needs, you will definitely pay attention to the marking. These signs and letters speak volumes. First of all - about the material of manufacture. There are several types of products:

• Random copolymer, labeled as PP-R. Made of polypropylene copolymer and designed for hot water supply.
• Homopolypropylene, labeled as PP-H. Withstand high operating pressure and therefore widely used in industry. Suitable for cold water supply.
• Block copolymer, marking PP-B. Are applied to floor heating systems and cold water supply systems.

Important! If the pipeline is external, it is better to pay attention to the presence of an ultraviolet-resistant sheath, which will allow the pipes to last an order of magnitude longer.

The table below shows the safety factor for products of different types:

As you can see, PP-H type pipes are highly dependent on the water heating temperature.

Related article:

Plastic pipes for plumbing. In the publication, we will consider the sizes and prices, types, advantages and disadvantages of plastic pipes, selection criteria, as well as the nuances of self-assembly and recommendations from specialists.

By type of reinforcement

Reinforcement is an indicator that affects the coefficient of thermal expansion, lowering it. It is done in one of several ways:

• using fiberglass (marked with the letters FB);
• aluminum foil when placed closer to the inner edge of the pipe (marking AL);
• aluminum foil when placing the layer closer to the outer edge (marking AL);
• using a composite (GF marking).

If the aluminum layer is located closer to the top edge, you will need to clean the edges before work. The highest quality elements are reinforced with fiberglass or composite.

Main technical characteristics of polypropylene water pipes

Let's talk about the main characteristics of pipes, according to which the buyer makes a choice in the store:

• diameter of polypropylene pipes. Products with a diameter of 15 to 1200 mm are produced, which are designed to provide water to both a private and an apartment building;
• PN marking will allow you to choose a product for both cold and hot water, as well as for a certain water pressure (the table is shown below);
• inner diameter or wall thickness. The thicker the wall, the more water pressure it can withstand;
• length. This parameter does not have a qualitative value, however, we clarify that all factory products have a length of 6 meters.

Technical requirements for polypropylene pipes for water supply in accordance with GOST

Expert point of view

Kirill Mikhailov

Head of the group "Water supply and sanitation" LLC "GRAST"

“In our country, polypropylene pipes for water supply are subject to GOST R 52134-2003, which defines the quality standard.”

This quality standard is the only one to characterize the quality of both pipes and fittings and connecting elements. General requirements for tap poly propylene pipes are:

• they must have a circular cross section;
• must be forceful;
• be used in residential and non-residential houses, as well as in industries;
• serve both for technical and drinking water.

Marking of polypropylene pipes for water supply

Marking polymer pipes for water supply allows the buyer to quickly determine whether this product is suitable for him or not:

• PN-10 intended for cold water and structures of "warm floor" (up to a temperature of +45°C);
• PN-16 suitable for installation of "warm floor" or hot water, the brand is unpopular with craftsmen;
• PN-20 designed for hot water supply with a maximum temperature of up to +80°C;
• PN-25 the most durable, they withstand water temperatures of +95°C.

Important! Hot water products must withstand high temperatures.

The table below includes the main characteristics of the pipes. Marking is present directly on the product.

Table of the main characteristics of pipes

Table of standard sizes of polypropylene pipes

Let's take a look at the table standard sizes PP products. It is presented as a variant with a reinforced product, and with an unreinforced one.

Table of standard sizes

Polypro- sawn pipe	Diameter, mm	Quantity in a package, m	Polypropylene pipe reinforced with aluminum foil	Diameter, mm	Quantity in a package, m
	20	100		20	100
	25	80		25	80
	32	40		32	40
	40	32		40	32
	50	20		50	20
	63	16		63	16
	75	12		75	12
	90	8		90	8
	110	4		110	4

How to choose the diameter of polypropylene pipes for water supply

In everyday life, water pipes from 20 to 32 mm are considered the most used. The diameter depends on the length of the water pipe as follows:

• more than 30 meters - Ø32 mm;
• from 10 to 30 meters - Ø25 mm;
• up to 10 meters - Ø20 mm.

The selection of the diameter of PP pipes is also carried out on the basis of the following conditions:

• pressure values;
• the length of the water supply system;
• number of connections and turns;
• the number of users.

If the design is complex, it will be necessary to increase the diameter of the pipe. The same law works with a significant increase in consumers.

Which polypropylene pipes are best for plumbing

The plumbing system is divided into two types:

• cold water supply;
• hot water supply.

Very often in private houses only cold water is supplied, which is also supplied to the boiler, and then a separate branch hot water extends to and baths. The use is unjustified, since their service life is not so long. In addition, water reacts with the material, rust is formed, reduced.

Polypropylene pipes for hot water

Plastic pipes for hot water must withstand high pressure and not be deformed when heated.

Important! Polypropylene softens at a temperature of +140°C.

The manufacturer always indicates that the maximum allowable temperature water inside the system can reach +95°C.

For hot water supply, it is better to use a reinforced pipe, because it is protected from expansion and has a longer service life. The highest quality reinforcement occurs using fiberglass or composite. The most acceptable product for hot water is marked PN-20 or PN-25.

Polypropylene pipes for cold water

High-quality polypropylene products can effectively serve up to 50 years as an element for cold water supply. She has performed admirably.

For these purposes, you can use products with any marking, it is important that they are of high quality. It is enough to choose the right diameter.

Features of the use of polypropylene pipes in the heating system

When standard, products of the following external diameters are used:

• for the "warm floor" system - Ø16−18 mm;
• for water supply pipes − Ø20 mm;
• for risers − Ø25 mm.

The master should pay special attention to the linear expansion of the product, because only hot water will be pumped through it. The higher its temperature, the shorter the service life of propylene pipes for water supply and heating. Choose products with a low coefficient of thermal expansion.

Installation and wiring of polypropylene pipes: what are the nuances

To work with PP pipes, you need to have two important tools: a pipe cutter and a special soldering iron. Using the example of pipeline installation, we will show the nuances of work.

Illustration	Description of actions
	Cutting is done on the floor or table. To ensure that the size is correct, consider the height of the clips and bends, as well as other elements.
	You can draw a map of the system directly on the wall with a pencil or pen, and also pre-fix the clips that hold the plastic pipes.
	After the part is warmed up, there is only 4 seconds to solder it with the pipe. The soldering iron must only be used with gloves.
	Quickly connect the two parts and fix them. You can pre-treat the soldered edges with a solvent.

The main problem is not to create hard-to-reach places for yourself to work on weight. The full video is available at the link:

What determines the service life of polypropylene pipes for water supply

There are several main reasons for the decrease in the service life of products:

• permanent exposure sun rays;
• high operating temperature of polypropylene pipes;
• increased pressure in the system;
• low quality material.

To avoid problems, give preference to well-known manufacturers.

The main manufacturers of polypropylene products for water supply

In the Russian PP pipe market, you can most often find domestic manufacturers, as well as products from China, Turkey and the EU. The highest prices are from European manufacturers, and Russian ones are considered the most budgetary.

Good quality and best price can be offered by such famous brands, as:

• blue ocean (China);
• FIRAT (Turkey);
• Kalde (Turkey);
• Jakko (Turkey);
• PROAQUA (Russia);
• PBK (Russia);
• Aquatherm (Germany).

The same companies also produce connectors.

Article

To create a workable, reliable and durable water supply system, it is necessary to thoroughly study the range of water pipes offered by our trade organizations, to find out the differences in their technical characteristics.

After all, today there is a wide range of tubular products used for organizing water supply network. Each variety has its advantages and disadvantages, which determines their scope.

There is a distinction between water supply networks according to the following criteria:

• Location. There are external networks that are subject to the influence of external atmospheric factors and internal networks, on which such impacts are minimized.
• throughput. The water supply network is divided into main (general) and local. In the first case, large-section tubular products are used, designed for the water supply of many consumers. In the second case, as a rule, pipe products with a cross section of 0.5 or ¾ inches are used.

Types of pipes used for plumbing systems

Currently, for the organization of water supply in residential, public and industrial premises use the following types of pipelines:

Steel

They are a traditional material used for almost a hundred years for the production of water supply pipeline systems. With proper operation, steel pipelines are able to regularly supply consumers with water for many decades.

To the benefits steel pipes relate:

• Highest mechanical strength. These products are able to withstand mechanical loads that are many times higher than the maximum allowable for plastic analogues. This applies to how external influences- dynamic impacts, static loads, and internal pressure of the system.
• Another advantage of these products is quite low coefficient of thermal expansion.

But today the use of steel pipelines is not the most promising investment due to the many shortcomings inherent in them:

• Significant Mass complicating the installation / repair work of the water supply system.
• Low corrosion resistance. When transporting aquatic environment corrosion processes rapidly develop in steel pipelines, which leads to a decrease in the quality of drinking water, a decrease in the useful diameter of the system and premature destruction - the appearance of leaks, fistulas.
• Installation of piping systems made of black steel is carried out by welding or threaded connections, what requires significant labor costs. And threaded joints are the weakest point of the system, where the probability of depressurization and leakage is very high.
• characteristic of steel excessive condensation leads to similar corrosive deposits on the outer surface of the pipeline, which significantly worsens the aesthetic performance.

For plumbing systems two types of steel pipes are commonly used:

• Welded. They are made from a bent strip of steel, butt-welded along the length.
• Seamless. They are made from round timber - long steel blanks on a special piercing machine.

Stainless

Pipe systems from stainless steel for transportation of hot/cold water have undoubted operational advantages over similar products from ferrous metal. Their main advantage is the ability to withstand corrosion processes for a long time.

Also stainless steel can withstand higher temperatures, chemical exposure, is hypoallergenic and absolutely safe for human health. It is the latter factor that determined the predominant use of stainless pipelines in the food, pharmaceutical and medicine industries.

The disadvantages of stainless steel systems include:

• High price. The production of high-alloy stainless alloys and products from them is characterized by high complexity and, accordingly, cost.
• Complexity of processing. Since stainless steel has a higher mechanical strength compared to ferrous alloys, it is much more difficult to machine. hand tool. In addition, welding of stainless steel products requires specialized consumables and highly skilled welders.

Copper

Professionally made copper piping can serve as a designer decoration of the premises, as they are distinguished by a characteristic yellow-reddish sheen that can last for a long time.

And since copper is a very expensive metal, products made from it in a private house testify to the high prosperity of the owner, that is, they belong to the status category.

Advantages, in addition to the beautiful appearance, copper pipes there are many systems:

• Water pipes made of copper alloys have antibacterial properties, that is, they inhibit the development of pathogenic microbes.
• The service life of copper pipe systems is practically unlimited. Today there are water pipelines that have been successfully functioning without repairs for fifty years or more.
• Due to the ductility and softness of copper, they are easily subjected to different types machining: soldering, drilling, bending, cutting.
• Over time, copper pipelines do not form mineral / biological deposits that reduce the diameter of the pipe passage.
• Highest corrosion resistance. Copper is practically not subject to corrosion processes. The maximum change during operation can be the occurrence thinnest film oxides, which in no way impede the passage of water, but, on the contrary, give additional resistance to negative influences.

The disadvantages of copper pipe wiring include only the highest cost among similar systems, the requirements of highly qualified installers and a fairly large mass.

metal-plastic

One of the most popular in the organization of water supply systems today are metal-plastic pipelines. These pipes have three-layer construction: the inner layer is plastic, then there is a metal layer of aluminum, the outer surface is also made of plastic.

have undeniable Benefits when organizing most modern water supply systems:

• The highest durability. The first pipelines made according to this technology are successfully functioning to this day. In general guarantee period services metal-plastic pipes ny wiring, subject to operating conditions, is at least fifty years.
• Complete absence of operating costs for cleaning pipelines(when used for transporting ordinary water) due to the impossibility of the formation of salt and bacteriological deposits on the inner surface of the pipes.
• light weight pipe products along with a sufficiently high mechanical strength.
• Smooth inner surface does not create resistance to the flow of liquid media.

But, like other tubular products, metal-plastic ones also have limitations. These include:

• Probability of Damage ready or mounted network in the process of production of repair, construction or finishing works. Resistance to mechanical stress in metal-plastic is much lower than in solid metal products.
• Insufficient, in comparison with the same steel pipe systems, resistance to temperature changes. Metal-plastic pipe wiring is especially sensitive to frost.

All these factors limit the use of metal-plastic tubular products in permanently heated residential and industrial premises.

Metal-plastic water pipes cannot be used:

• as fire fighting;
• as high pressure systems (at values ​​exceeding 10 bar);
• in high temperature rooms.

Polypropylene

Advantages:

This type of pipe product is able to withstand repeated freezing. Due to the high rates of plasticity and elasticity, polypropylene pipes return to their original dimensions after expansion as a result of freezing water in them.

Plumbing assembly technology polypropylene products minimizes the chance of leaks at connections. Polypropylene is highly resistant to impact ultraviolet spectrum sunlight.

Fittings, various fittings for mounting a polypropylene water supply system are quite low in cost.

Disadvantages:

• large wall thickness in comparison with the useful diameter;
• polypropylene pipes are not subject to bending. Any turns must be organized by means of corner fittings;
• the resulting connections are one-piece, which greatly complicates the process of repair work;
• the cost of products made of polypropylene is quite high.

For more information on choosing polypropylene pipes for a private house, see the video:

Polyethylene or HDPE

Polyethylene pipelines or HDPE (made from polyethylene low pressure) began to be used relatively recently, but have already managed to win the trust of consumers. The main advantages of polyethylene pipe products include:

• Unprecedented high service life. According to the developers, such pipe systems can last three hundred years. Manufacturers, however, indicate slightly different terms - up to fifty years.
• Such pipes ideal for outdoor plumbing in a private house.
• Supreme reliability pipe systems at normal conditions operation.
• No likelihood of corrosion processes and the formation of bacterial or fungal colonies within the system.
• Supreme water hammer resistance. Due to its excellent plasticity, polyethylene is able to withstand significant dynamic impacts.
• When installing water supply networks from polyethylene pipes no additional protection required. And during their operation there is no need for regular maintenance.
• Excellent thermal insulation qualities. With underground laying, in almost any conditions, there is no need for additional thermal insulation.
• Relatively low cost.

A significant disadvantage of polyethylene pipes is only low resistance to ultraviolet radiation, so their use is limited to flush-mounted systems.

PVC

almost perfectly meets the requirements for hot water installations.

Main advantages of PVC pipes are considered:

• Minimum values ​​for thermal expansion coefficient and linear stiffness, which allows you to keep the configuration of DHW pipelines practically unchanged and use fewer fasteners during the installation process. These indicators are especially important when equipping vertical sections of water pipes - risers.
• Absolute fire resistance. Thanks to the chlorine contained in the material of the pipes, ignition, as well as maintaining combustion, is impossible. This makes it possible to use polypropylene pipes to create fire extinguishing systems.
• And thanks to the almost perfectly polished inner surface, there is no friction of the transported liquids against the pipeline walls and the formation of lime and biological deposits is excluded.
• Life time water pipes from PVC pipes can be up to a hundred years old.

The disadvantages of PVC pipelines are:

• high thermal conductivity, which requires the use of additional thermal insulation when transporting hot water;
• low plasticity characteristics at negative temperatures Oh;
• the impossibility of making a threaded connection with metal elements.

Installation of pipes in a private house

The layout of the water supply network in a private house can be done on its own, especially when using plastic pipes. Depending on the type of products used, the plumbing system is assembled in the following ways:

• Welded or by means of threaded connections– for steel pipelines. Stainless pipes in most cases are connected by means of threaded fittings.
• By soldering. This method is suitable for copper piping and some polymer products.
• By crimping press. This method is used when assembling a metal-plastic pipeline.

Wiring diagram for a two-story house

The water supply of a private house is usually carried out from main water supply, pumping station or hydraulic accumulator. Wiring is carried out in kitchen facilities, bathrooms and rooms. The first two categories of premises require hot water.

Water heating can be carried out centrally - by means of double-circuit heating boilers, various designs boilers, stoves or carried out directly near the consumer - kitchen sink, bathroom. In this case, various models of instantaneous and storage water heaters are used.

In the case of organizing a centralized water heating system, it is desirable to insulate all outgoing pipes in order to minimize heat loss at a large distance between the heating source and the consumer.

Standard plumbing layout for two-story house shown in the following figure:

Care of internal pipelines and their repair

Maintenance of hot water and cold water pipes is carried out on the basis of the material of the pipes. So, for metal plumbing systems, regular painting is necessary to avoid the occurrence of corrosion processes on the outer surfaces of the pipes. It also requires periodic replacement or cleaning of filter elements, which can become clogged with iron oxide products and biological components.

All types of polymer pipes used in plumbing systems require much less attention during operation. It is enough just to monitor their integrity and eliminate leaks, the occurrence of which is possible as a result of insufficiently high-quality installation.

Repair of water supply pipelines usually comes down to replacing damaged sections, inserting new pipes, or, in case of minor damage, soldering / sealing leaks.

Price

Current prices for pipes used in the creation of domestic plumbing systems vary greatly. Consider approximate cost water pipes from different materials of the most popular section - ½ inch:

• steel water and gas pipeline seamless(wall thickness 2.5 mm) - about 100 rubles per linear meter;
• stainless the same diameter with a wall thickness of 2 mm will cost more than 150 rubles per linear meter;
• the most expensive are copper pipe products. One meter today costs about 270-300 rubles;
• metal-plastic, depending on the characteristics, costs from 45 to 90 rubles per meter;
• the cost of an ordinary polyethylene pipes today are the smallest among analogues - about twenty rubles per meter;
• polypropylene the pipeline will cost twice as much - the price of one meter - from 40 rubles;
• a PVC(pvc) can be found at a price of 30-35 rubles per linear meter.

Approximately the same price proportion for various fittings - joints, couplings, turns, splitters and others.

For more information on how to choose pipes for heating and plumbing in a private house, see the video:

Results:

Summing up this article, I would like to draw your attention once again: metal pipelines today are far from the most successful for the production of a water supply network in a private house or apartment.

It is much more durable, more efficient and cheaper to use polymer products, and for a house in which they live all year round, the organization of a PVC or metal-plastic water supply system would be optimal, and for a country house it is better to use a freeze-resistant polyethylene pipe.

Presented on store shelves, it is able to provide the creation of any water supply. Whether you are doing a major overhaul in an apartment or re-creating a water supply, sewerage system, you will surely be able to find the necessary pipes.

The external diversity, the number of similar, but somewhat different pipes, is sometimes confusing when it comes to choosing which pipes are best for water supply. The problem is not as complicated as it seems at first glance. All types of pipes popular today in construction can be divided into only five categories:

• steel;
• steel galvanized;
• copper;
• metal-plastic;
• polypropylene.

The characteristics of the materials from which the pipes are made affect the technique of working with them and the methods of connection, reliability and durability. The price range is quite large. Therefore, you need to select the type of pipes for specific purposes, then the purchase will turn out to be rational.

Steel pipes

Such pipes are used in the construction of a water supply system, heating, and partially in the sewerage system. In the houses of the old building, they accounted for almost one hundred percent of the length of the water supply.

Advantages:

• high resistance to mechanical damage;
• relatively low cost;
• a lot of fittings are made necessary for installation and, therefore, it is possible to make a complex and reliable system.

Disadvantages:

1. Susceptibility to rapid corrosion main disadvantage become. Protective coatings, coloring protect only outer surface. At the slightest violation of the protective layer, corrosion begins, which, spreading under the coating, destroys it from the inside.
2. Installation of pipes is laborious, requires welding equipment. Threaded connections are used, which partially, and sometimes completely replace connections by metal welding. But this method is also laborious.
3. Pipes with cold water clogged, which narrows their clearance.
4. Good electrical conductivity can also be attributed to disadvantages: in the event of an accident, they can cause electric shock.
5. Cannot be used with aluminum and copper radiators. The resulting galvanic couple leads to the appearance of weak currents, and consequently, the corrosion process is accelerated at the joints.

In modern capital construction, unprotected steel pipes are almost never used for water supply. During repairs, they are usually replaced with other types of pipes.

Steel galvanized pipes

More suitable type of pipes in conditions of constant contact with water. Zinc protective layer applied on the outside and inside. It perfectly resists corrosion and prevents slag and sand particles from depositing on the pipe walls.. Therefore, no growths are formed inside and the internal cross-sectional area remains constant.

Oddly enough, but galvanized pipes were more used at the beginning of the twentieth century than at its end. Heating systems were assembled from zinc-protected pipes. During assembly, welding was not used. The connections were threaded. Then there was no doubt when solving the problem, which pipes are better for plumbing. Dismantling such an old heating system, you can see how well the interior of the pipes is preserved. The surface is smooth, without growths.

Compared to steel pipes, these are superior in every way except price. Therefore, with the advent of the era of total savings, galvanizing almost ceased to be used in mass construction.

Advantages:

• very good strength;
• effective protection against corrosion;
• as with simple steel pipes, mounting hardware is plentiful.

Disadvantages:

1. The cost is significantly higher than that of steel without galvanization;
2. Just like ordinary steel pipes, pipes are incompatible with non-ferrous metal parts and radiators due to the occurrence of an electrochemical reaction;
3. The protective zinc coating is not very scratch resistant. During assembly, it collapses at the places of threaded connections. Exactly this weakness systems in terms of the risk of corrosion;
4. The complexity and complexity of assembly.

Useful if needed high strength, i.e. the system may consist of pipes and parts different material, and galvanized steel pipes should be located in places where there is a high probability of mechanical damage.

Copper pipes

Copper plumbing is widespread in Europe and North America, especially in the private sector, due to the fact that there are no problems for owners to operate. But the high cost today reduces consumer advantages to nothing, because. the same result can be achieved using pipes from other, cheaper materials. For the installation of plumbing systems use a special tool.

Advantages:

• long service life;
• not subject to corrosion;
• do not deform;
• do not accumulate deposits;
• operating temperature range is large, which allows them to be used in heating.

Disadvantages:

• price;
• rarely appear on sale;
• few fittings and other related installation tools;
• low mechanical strength;
• difficult installation if soldering is used for the connection.

It is advisable to use as a design element if a special aesthetic look is required. In other cases, it is not recommended to use.

Metal-plastic pipes

Gained wide popularity in the nineties. At that time, they looked prestigious against the background of rusty steel pipes in old Soviet-built houses. Therefore, they were often put on display as a design element. Indeed, they have excellent appearance immediately after purchase. But after a while they fade, and the joints begin to leak due to deformation during temperature changes.

Advantages:

• spectacular look;
• a wide range of fittings on sale;
• not afraid of corrosion;
• the pipe sheath does not conduct electricity.

Disadvantages:

• connections weaken from cyclic changes in water temperature;
• little resistance to mechanical stress.

Metal-plastic can be a good choice for, but for plumbing in an apartment it is better to use pipes from a different material.

Polypropylene pipes

Unite in themselves best qualities the above types of pipes. Sufficient strength and ease of assembly provided them with great popularity. Connections are made by welding with a special soldering iron at a low temperature.

Advantages:

• decent appearance;
• strength is acceptable for most installation sites;
• light and quick installation systems;
• no problems with corrosion;
• simple repair in case of an accident;
• secure joints.

Disadvantages:

• connections are unbreakable.

The article lists all the main types of pipes and gives their characteristics, which will help you decide which pipes are best for plumbing. This information is sufficient. You just have to choose the manufacturer and the specific product.

What pipes to choose for water supply?

When planning repairs in an apartment (especially in a new building; see → about content), not many people ask what type pipes choose for the device of the system of cold and hot water supply. In most cases, the decision is made spontaneously and not always correctly. We would like to provide basic information about which pipes the plumbing market offers today and what are the differences that determine the difference consumer qualities including reliability and durability.

Choosing the type of pipeline for the water supply system of the apartment (and country house) consider the pipe not just as a material for installation - but as complex technology. Consider not only the performance and quality of the pipe itself (as well as other elements), but also the possibility of performing high-quality installation of the entire system using the selected technology. That is, the capabilities of your craftsman or contractor.

What pipes are better to use for water supply?

Of all types of pipes permitted for use in hot and cold water supply systems (clause 10.1, SNiP 2.04.01-85 "Internal water supply and sewerage of buildings"), two main groups can be distinguished - metal and polymeric.

Among metal pipes Today the most popular are copper. Among polymer pipes - polypropylene, metal-plastic, and pipelines from cross-linked polyethylene. So why do we choose these types of pipelines? Everyone has their own reasons, but they all come down to one simple combination: "characteristics - price - reliability - durability."

The "weak point" common to modern pipes can be considered the low quality of water at the consumer's inlet, the presence of a large number of particles that, when rubbed against inner surface pipelines thin out individual sections over time.

When installing water supply systems, do not forget about the possibility of inspecting individual pipeline nodes during operation. Recently, it has become fashionable to follow the experience of the Scandinavian countries, in which the placement of pipes has become widespread. open way. In addition to the practical side, this wiring option also has an aesthetic advantage ( modern materials, tooling and work technologies have stepped far from the "Soviet methods").

copper piping

A kind of elite among pipes. Reliable, durable and ... expensive. The service life is up to 100 years (that is, almost eternal). They have bactericidal properties. Installation - soldering or compression fittings. They can be laid under plaster or in a screed. For water supply systems, pipes should be used with markings indicating compliance European standard EN 1057 "Seamless copper pipes for use in water and gas supply". When choosing craftsmen for repairs, it is important to warn the foreman about the use of copper pipes - not all teams take up the wiring of copper pipelines.

Polypropylene pipelines.

Good material: inexpensive, durable (25 years - hot water supply, up to 50 years - cold water), during installation it is welded with a special soldering iron, forming strong one-piece connections. One of the main advantages of polypropylene is the preservation of its characteristics when water freezes in the system. Can be installed in floor screed or under plaster.

Among the shortcomings, it is worth highlighting the high coefficient of linear expansion (DHW pipes laid openly can sag or wriggle) and relatively big sizes connecting fittings that reduce the aesthetic qualities of the system. Also, polypropylene pipes are "afraid" of UF radiation and temperatures over 75 degrees. (although they can withstand 95 degrees for a short time).

Metal-plastic pipelines.

One of the most economical options. At one time they were developed for use on British submarines and were a military secret. Recommended operating conditions: pressure - no more than 10 bar, working temperature 95 deg. (short-term - up to 110 degrees).

Metal-plastic pipes(also called them mettaloplast) are light, not subject to corrosion, have good heat resistance, are easy to install, easy to bend (bending radius at least values ​​in the range from 3.5 to 5 diameters).

For installation, two types of connections are used - press or collet. Press fittings - more reliable, allow for hidden installation, but require special tool. Push-in connections can be made with a conventional wrench, but they are not recommended to be embedded under plaster - in the future it may be necessary to check the tightness of the crimp.

Among the disadvantages of metal-plastic pipes - hypersensitivity to mechanical impact(the upper protective layer of the pipe can be easily damaged). Particular attention should be paid to the bending radius - it should not be less than what was indicated earlier. Otherwise, there is a risk of damage to the pipe, the occurrence of cracks. The disadvantages also include the presence of a huge number of low quality fakes. Such pipes are not durable, their performance does not meet current standards.

Pipelines made of cross-linked polyethylene.

Having appeared relatively recently, the system quickly gained its well-deserved popularity. This was largely facilitated by simple technology installation, minimizing the influence of the human factor. Connecting fittings (unlike metal-plastic systems) do not have sealing rubber bands - sealing is achieved due to tight compression of the fitting with a pipe.

Cross-linked polyethylene, according to most professionals - the best for today polymer technology for the water supply system.

Benefits include resistance to low temperatures, fittings do not reduce the passage of the pipe (as, for example, with the same metal-plastic), the connections are very reliable and allow hidden laying. In addition, cross-linked polyethylene is absolutely inert to chemical composition water - which you will agree is important for our urban water supply networks.

Concerning cost of cross-linked polyethylene and complex systems, built on the use of such pipes, the price of the kit (including the rental of equipment for installation), as a rule, is comparable to the "expensive metal-plastic".

Based on our own experience, we can safely recommend the use of the system rehau providing durable, reliable and quality installation water supply systems in the apartment. In addition, collectors ("combs"), produced under the brand name FAR or Oventrop. We will be happy to provide services for the installation of sanitary systems in your apartment. To do this, just call us or send on the site.

I would like to invite all readers don't save on pipes, shut-off and switchgears- high-quality sanitary components are a guarantee of long-term and safe use of water supply systems in the apartment!

If you have any questions - write! We will try to answer them.

The range of pipes for the communications device is extensive. Manufactured products differ significantly in their characteristics: material, flexibility, strength, durability. It is often difficult for the user to determine which pipe to choose for the water supply of a house or apartment.

The type of pipeline and the transported medium, the number of plumbing points in the network - all these are factors that pull the scales in favor of choosing one or another type.

In our material, we will try to understand the intricacies of choice, and also talk about how to determine the optimal diameter of the pipeline.

How to determine the required pipe size?

For convenient definition pipe diameter and fittings, binding them to all elements of the system use the value of the inner diameter ( Dy - conditional passage of pipes). They are guided by the typical dimensions of steel pipes - they are produced with Dy- 15mm, 20mm, 25mm, 32mm.

Pipes are easy to gas weld, but, nevertheless, their installation is more difficult than the installation of pipelines from other materials. In addition, welding can not always be used and not in all rooms.

Steel components and parts are ordered in specialized workshops and stores. To connect pipes, threads are cut on them:

• half an inch, if Dy=15 mm;
• three quarters of an inch at Dy=20 mm;
• one inch, if Dy=25 mm.

They are called half-inch, three-quarter-inch and inch pipes, respectively.

The main disadvantages of the steel pipeline are weak anti-corrosion properties, high degree clogging. It must be periodically cleaned of the resulting plaque, otherwise it loses its throughput. However, you cannot use alkaline agents, which corrode the metal, and pipes begin to leak over time.

Option #2 - copper pipes

The copper pipeline is the least susceptible to negative factors that affect strength and service life. It does not give in to corrosion, does not form plaque, does not deform due to temperature changes.

When interacting with chlorine compounds contained in the water of the centralized water supply system, it does not form harmful compounds.

Copper pipes are highly machinable - they can be easily bent or joined by gas welding or brazing

Option #3 - plastic pipes

The choice of plastic pipes is made taking into account their purpose, operating conditions - the temperature of the water used, the maximum operating pressure, etc. Despite the similarity of the material for production, properties different types products can vary greatly.

Thanks to the many positive characteristics, in the design and construction of pipelines, plastic pipes are very often used. First of all, they are characterized by high corrosion resistance.

Unlike metal products, they do not require a special protective coating, they have a smaller mass, which simplifies and facilitates the process of installation and transportation. Their inherent flexibility allows you to reduce the number of bent inserts, connecting elements.

Plastic pipes have a smooth smooth surface and, due to this, they are distinguished by low hydraulic resistance, increased throughput(not clogged). They are not subject to corrosion, have low thermal conductivity, which eliminates the formation of condensate.

The predicted service life of the plastic pipeline is 50 years. But at the same time, it must be remembered that the manufacturer indicates the terms for the operation of the product at a certain and stable temperature regime.

Among the shortcomings - they are easily damaged, exposed to the negative effects of negative temperatures, becoming brittle. Carry out installation at sub-zero temperatures absolutely not recommended. They can not be used when arranging wiring sections passing near open sources of fire and in places of direct solar radiation.

The temperature of the water transported through the pipeline, which differs from the normative indicators, also has Negative influence for the service life of the products. In addition, during storage, transportation and operation, it must be protected from sunlight and mechanical damage.

Peculiar plastic pipes the problem of linear expansion is solved with the help of special expansion joints that bend when heated and cooled

The plastic pipeline is general characteristics products made from plastic. This includes products made of polyethylene, polypropylene, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride.

Pipeline made of polyethylene (PE) is used to supply cold drinking water with a temperature of 0 °C to 40 °C, with a maximum operating pressure not exceeding 25 bar (the exact value depends on the pipe size). Installation of elements is carried out by welding.

To polypropylene pipes(PP) refers to several types of products that may differ slightly in the composition of raw materials for production and are referred to as PPH, PPR and PPB. They are used for transporting household and drinking water (except for those used for fire safety networks).

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Withstand temperatures of 70-80 °C, have reduced resistance to bending and shock loads. These properties are especially pronounced at sub-zero temperatures.

Pipes, depending on the class of operating conditions, can withstand a pressure of 4, 6, 8 or 10 bar. Their connection is carried out by welding, with a special soldering iron butt or socket, as well as by thermistor welding.

Pipes made of unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC) are suitable for transporting water for any purpose with temperatures from 0 °C to 45 °C. It is unacceptable to use this type of product for hot water.

It can be used for external overground and internal cold water supply networks, provided that it is protected from sunlight and mechanical damage. The connection of parts is carried out in the socket using glue.

For each type of polymer pipes, manufacturers stamp parts with a specific configuration. Therefore, it is necessary to choose only the same type of pipes and assemblies

Units and parts for the installation of a plastic pipeline are manufactured at the factory. A wide choice of their configurations and sizes makes it easy to assemble the most complex plumbing systems.

During the acquisition, unwinding of coils or installation, make sure that there are no flattened sections, fractures and strong bends on the pipes. If such a site is nevertheless found, it must be removed - it is not suitable for installation.

When buying products, they are examined for the absence of cracks, burrs, traces of peeling. Often these defects appear due to improper storage or transportation.

Selectively measure the wall thickness, outside diameter. Check the operation of valves and taps. Shaped elements must be without breaks, sharp edges, burrs. Rubber gaskets and cuffs should not have gaps, shells.

The presence of defects in the form of peeling layers and bubbles on the surface indicates poor product quality, violation of production technology

Each manufacturer of plumbing products must provide data on the properties of water that can be transported through this species pipes, the features of its use, including how to resist the penetration of air into the system. The pipe material should not affect the composition and quality of the water.

Option # 4 - metal-plastic pipes

Metal-plastic pipes combine the characteristic properties of metal and plastic - strength, flexibility, non-corrosion, no plaque.

They are made from several layers of durable polyethylene, welded together "overlap", and an aluminum layer, which serves as a frame. The metal layer may be solid, perforated or helical.

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The installation of the pipeline can be carried out without the use of welding equipment, which means that it can be installed where welding is prohibited.

The pipe is afraid of multiple bends. To bend it correctly, use a special spring - a pipe bender

The sections of the connection of segments and reinforcement are the weak link of the metal-plastic system. Connections must be periodically tightened, at least once every two years. But in general, experts speak well of the properties of metal-plastic pipes and call them one of the most acceptable options in a relatively inexpensive price segment.

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Differences in plastic pipes - polypropylene, polyethylene, metal-plastic:

How to choose pipes for plumbing. Pro Tips:

When buying a pipe for water supply, the user most often has to choose the optimal ratio between the price available to him and acceptable quality. Often the choice leans towards the economy of the project. But even among cheaper offers, you need to carefully study the properties of the product and weigh all the arguments.

If doubts remain, then the advice of an experienced specialist will help determine which pipes are better to choose for plumbing, how to avoid common mistakes.