Pipes for water supply - choose wisely! What types of pipes to choose for water supply Materials of pipes and fittings for domestic water supply

Choosing pipes for water supply in an apartment is a very non-trivial task, for the resolution of which it is necessary to have a certain set of knowledge.

Due to the fact that there is a fairly wide range of products of this type on the market, making the right choice will be very problematic. You may even have to resort to the services of a specialist in this field.

Types of pipes and features of their selection

An inexperienced consumer will need a lot of time to make right choice. One of the main criteria is indicators of reliability and strength. Also, we should not forget about the price level and the possible service life of the product. Pipes must be resistant to temperature changes and. In addition, the procedure installation work should not involve great difficulties.

When choosing pipes for water supply, you should pay attention to the material that was used to make these elements. Based on this, the main parts of the plumbing system may be different:

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

Plastic pipes combine polypropylene and polyethylene elements. You can also add products made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Each of these product variations has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Steel pipes

Steel water supply pipes are quite durable. But it should be noted that this type of element of the plumbing system is not particularly popular today. Plastic or copper variations of pipes still remain the priority.

Steel pipes are increasingly used for water supply

Concerning of this product, then it is able to withstand large temperature differences and function in conditions high blood pressure. Such pipes can be made of black or galvanized steel. In the latter case, we can talk about high resistance to corrosion, which has a very positive effect on the overall service life.

The main problem with steel pipes is that they are susceptible to condensation. In addition, installation work may require special equipment and certain skills. Pipes for a water supply system made of steel can last more than fifty years, so there is still a demand for such products.

Advice! It is advisable to use steel pipes when reconstructing a water supply system from identical elements. Subject to construction new system It is recommended to choose an alternative option.

Advantages. Here we should focus on the long service life, which can reach fifty years under certain conditions. Among other things, steel pipes Steel pipes are durable and can function under high pressure conditions. Resistance to negative corrosive influences should also be added here.

Flaws. On inner surface steel pipes form a coating that impedes the passage of liquid and significantly deteriorates the quality of water. In this context, it is necessary to take all possible measures to prevent the appearance of such formations. To disadvantages of this material One can also attribute high electrical conductivity. The installation procedure when using steel pipes can present certain difficulties. Special tools may be needed to resolve this issue.

Copper pipes

Copper pipes are durable and reliable. At the same time, the option of constructing a water supply system using such elements is not the most practical, which is due to the complexity of the installation work. In addition, the price indicators of these products are quite high, so their purchase will involve large financial expenses.

Copper pipes for water supply are a fairly expensive option.

Copper is a very durable material that can last for seventy years. To the main advantages of this product, which are resistance to mechanical damage, as well as the ability to operate at different temperatures, we should also add the unique appearance copper pipes. Thanks to this, you can solve design problems of any level of complexity. The room where these elements of the plumbing system are located can be significantly transformed.

Connecting elements for copper pipes

Important! Copper has beneficial properties for the human body. Due to the interaction of this material with chlorine, the formation of various harmful compounds does not occur. In this context, copper pipes look more than preferable.

Advantages. Pipes for the water supply system made of copper are durable and reliable. In favor of the expediency of choice given elements speaks also of a long service life, which can reach seventy years. Another significant advantage of copper pipes is their attractive appearance, which allows you to turn them into a unique design element.

Connecting copper pipes requires special welding

Flaws. First of all, attention should be paid to the high price indicators of the products. In addition, copper pipes on the market today are presented in limited quantities, so finding them will be very problematic. To the high cost of the material, one should also add the costs of installation work, which are determined by the involvement of third-party specialists. Before installing copper pipes, it is necessary to carry out mandatory procedure cleaning the system.

Metal-plastic pipes

Metal-plastic pipes are a good option for arranging a summer house. For an apartment or residential building, it is recommended to choose another alternative. Such pipes are distinguished by small weight indicators and practicality. With the installation procedure in this case, no problems should arise. The presence of a multilayer structure allows us to talk about high strength indicators. The plastic pipe consists of metal frame which is covered with plastic on both sides. In this case, the frame can be solid, spiral or perforated.

The service life of these elements is about thirty-five years. The material can withstand temperatures up to seventy-five degrees. Fittings are used as connecting elements.

Advantages

• Weak frost resistance;
• Easy installation;
• Ability to bend pipes;
• Low cost;
• Not required optional equipment for connecting pipes;
• Suitable for laying pipelines hidden under the soil.

The obvious advantages of the material include low price indicators, ease of installation work and the possibility of using it for hidden installation of a water supply system.

Composition of metal-plastic (metal-polymer) pipes

Flaws

Here it should be noted the low frost resistance of metal-plastic, as well as the need for regular tightening threaded connections. In addition, the cost of connecting elements, which are fittings, is quite high. The immediate connections of such a water supply system are not durable.

plastic pipes

Plastic pipes are well suited for long-term use. They are distinguished by practicality and low price indicators. We can say that this material was able to absorb all the best features of its direct competitors. To make plastic, polypropylene, polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride can be used.

Polypropylene pipes

They are used not only for water supply, but also. To supply hot water, a reinforced variation of pipes is used, and for cold water, a regular one is used. The material can last 50 years. It can withstand temperatures up to 90 degrees.

Advantages

• Durability;
• Low cost;
• High tightness of connections;
• Can also be used for water supply systems;
• Quality and ease of installation.

Almost any plastic pipes are suitable for cold water, since in an apartment they are not subject to significant temperature effects. For hot water, the choice needs to be taken much more seriously. Reinforced and unreinforced pipes are available for sale. What determines the choice among them?

Propylene has such an irreplaceable property as thermal elongation, unlike other types of pipes, only propylene has this property very high. For an unreinforced pipe, it can reach 150 mm per 10-12 m of pipe with temperature differences of 95-100 degrees - this is a huge value, so for such differences in the size of the pipe it is necessary to make all kinds of indents and compensation loops. To reduce this property to zero or to a minimum, reinforcement is used. In this case, the most stable pipe is a pipe with glass fiber and its thermal elongation is about 1.5 cm per 10-11 meters, in contrast to an unreinforced pipe.

There are also pipes reinforced with aluminum. Aluminum is a regular piece of foil that is sealed inside. It is not soldered inside and serves to reduce thermal elongation.

The strength of different reinforced pipes is the same. The only difference is thermal elongation. Fiberglass has the bare minimum. For aluminum reinforcement (internal or external) this number is approximately the same and is significantly larger than for a pipe with fiberglass and significantly less than for a pipe without reinforcement at all.

Mounting Features

The most convenient for installation is a non-reinforced pipe; there are simply no obstacles to a quality connection with the fitting. It is worth noting that pipes with fiberglass reinforcement are also easy to install. The fiberglass layer melts in the same way as the rest of the polypropylene, so the connections are very, very high quality and reliable.

As for pipes with aluminum reinforcement, it must be cleaned off, both with external and internal reinforcement, otherwise the aluminum layer will simply not allow the polypropylene layer to melt. There are special tools for this.

Solderable poly propylene pipes use a special device

Conclusion

An unreinforced pipe can only be used in cold water supply. It is easy to install, cheap, and you don’t even need more in the cold water supply. An unreinforced pipe in this case is the best option.

For hot water supply, a reinforced pipe with fiberglass is the most convenient for installation, reliable, practical and least susceptible to thermal elongation. It is precisely because of this that it is preferable for hot water supply - it does not require any cleaning, will not “walk” or “jump” out of the clips, sag somewhere and will retain a decent appearance for a long time.

All others - with external and internal aluminum reinforcement and combined pipes - have a number of disadvantages, which makes them less preferable for use with hot water.

The cold water supply system to a residential building is a complex of engineering structures and mechanisms installed for the purpose of extracting and carrying water from natural sources into the building. Without a high-quality pipeline, performing all these procedures is considered impossible. The water supply system must be durable, last a long time, and have a high efficiency factor. Steel, reinforced concrete, cast iron, plastic products, as well as asbestos-cement pipes are endowed with suitable quality characteristics. This article describes the main quality characteristics of pipes suitable for installing a cold water supply system.

• The materials must be homogeneous and not contain any inclusions;
• The pipes must be marked and the GOST in accordance with which they were manufactured must be indicated;
• There should be no unpleasant odor in such pipes;
• The wall thickness should be the same along the entire length of the product;
• The surface of the pipe must be smooth.

If the selected pipe fully complies with all the above points, the product can be called of sufficient quality. This pipe is perfect for installing a main line in a cold water supply system. Low-quality products can only be used to satisfy simple technical needs.

A pipe that can be installed in a cold water supply system is marked with a blue stripe along the entire length of the product, painted black. Pipes used for such purposes are also painted blue.

HDPE pipes for cold water supply systems are often marked by embossing or printed; the following information is indicated on the products:

• Purpose and GOST;
• Overall dimensions, or the ratio of wall thickness and diameter;
• Product strength factor. PE100 high quality collectors. PE80 pipes of a lower class;
• Manufacturer's name;
• The footage is not indicated by all manufacturers.

The cost of products also requires attention in the process of choosing a suitable product. If the price per meter of pipe is lower compared to the market average, then the buyer is looking at a fake or a product intended for simple household needs.

Polyethylene pipes

Polyethylene pipes are marked in accordance with their purpose, similar to the products of their other possible materials. Products can be wound into coils and coils if they have a small diameter. The high elasticity of the pipe can be maintained even in frosty winter conditions. Consequently, the polyethylene plumbing system is quite resistant to freezing. The walls of the pipe will only be slightly stretched by the ice. The pipes will be in their original size after the ice melts.

Let's consider the areas of application of polyethylene pipes:

• Underground water pipelines;
• Water supply inlets;
• Systems installed in dachas and temporary removable summer water pipes.

The service life of such devices is at least 50 years. The permissible operating pressure is 6-16 kgf/sq.m. cm.

Polypropylene

Polypropylene cold water pipes attract many homeowners for their affordable price. The cost of products can reach 20-25 rubles per running meter with a standard pipe diameter of 20 mm. To connect such pipes, special fittings are used, which are also affordable.

Other quality characteristics can also please users:

• The service life of products in which the operating temperature does not exceed 20 degrees can be 50 years or more.
• The operating pressure can range from 10 to 20 kg/sq.m. cm;
• Welded joints are durable and tight.

Polypropylene pipes can be hidden in grooves or cement screed without any leaks in the near future.

Metal-plastic

These are composite products consisting of aluminum cores and several polyethylene shells, which are connected to glue using a core.

The following material can be used for the shell:

• Low pressure polyethylene PE;
• Cross-linked PEX material has high mechanical strength and fairly high heat resistance
• PERT is a material with a high level of heat resistance, able to withstand operating temperature up to 110 degrees.

The operating period is over 50 years. The operating pressure is 10-16 atmospheres.

For installation, you can use several types of fittings:

1. Compression ones, in which a pipe is put on a herringbone fitting, after which it is crimped using a special split ring. The main advantage of such devices is that there is no need to use complex tools during installation.
2. Press fittings in which a special stainless steel sleeve is used instead of a ring. Electric pliers or similar are required for installation. mechanical devices. This type of connection cannot be disassembled and further serviced.

The second type of connection is highly reliable.

HDPE pipes

Homeowners, problem solving installation of water supply in a private house, I have heard about materials such as HDPE. For beginners in this matter, it is advisable to understand the types of HDPE pipes that can be used for installation.

The abbreviations indicated on the products (HDPE, PVC, etc.) help determine the material from which the pipe is made. HDPE is low pressure polyethylene. This is the initial raw material used for the manufacture of PE products, in particular for pipes.

The quality of HDPE products may vary. The basic properties of the source material used affect the characteristics of the manufactured pipes. Performance characteristics and the possible duration of use are also determined by these basic material properties.

Some developers install a pipeline made of HDPE products, which can be used for 45-50 years. Some products become unusable after 1.5-2 years of operation. The qualitative characteristics of the feedstock are decisive in this matter. Therefore, you need to understand how to choose the right one polyethylene pipes.

Cink Steel

The service life of steel pipes can be extended by using a zinc coating on the surface from the inside and outer side. Galvanization allows you to get absolutely new material, resistant to corrosion and blockages in pipes. Previously, in so-called stalinkas, galvanized products were installed without welding using cast iron corners or special tees. Even after several decades of successful operation, galvanized steel pipes remained in good condition.

The relative complexity of installation is one of the main disadvantages of such products. It is highly undesirable to use synthetic materials for sealing joints. Traditionally used substances such as flax impregnated with drying oil or paint have proven themselves the best way.

Choosing the right diameter

To select a pipe of a suitable diameter, you need to use specially compiled hydrodynamic tables.

The tables contain the following information:

• Optimal water consumption;
• The material from which the pipes are made and the indicator of its roughness;
• Length of the water supply structure;
• Number of turns provided in the pipeline;
• Reduction in internal diameter due to overgrowing with deposits.

Metal-plastic, copper or galvanized pipes are made in such a way that their internal diameter will not decrease over time.

For installation in a private house, you can use a galvanized steel pipe with an internal diameter of ¾; products made of polypropylene or polyethylene with an external diameter of 25 mm are also suitable.

You need to understand that polyethylene can only be used for cold water supply systems. It is better to install copper and galvanized products with an internal section of ½ in the building. The outer diameter of metal-plastic products can be 16 mm. The outer diameter of polypropylene should be 20 mm.

When choosing suitable materials It is advisable to give preference to products with permanent connections. In fairly long areas, compensation loops or U-shaped bends can be installed.

Once installation is complete, every connection installed must be accessible, excluding soldered and welded seams. First of all, such requirements apply specifically to metal-plastic products. Duration of use household appliances or individual elements of home plumbing will be extended in a situation where a filter device is installed in the water supply at the entrance to the building. Homeowners are given a choice of a large number of various communications, fittings, fixing elements, fittings, etc.

Advantages of polymer pipes and technical products

Let's consider the main advantages of technical pipes:

• Light weight makes the installation process much easier;
• Pipes are resistant to corrosion;
• The connection of pipe structures is carried out both by welding the seam and using special PVC fittings. This will significantly reduce installation time;
• Long service life;
• Thanks to their elasticity, the pipes will not burst when icing;
• Install plumbing system any homeowner can make such pipes independently without prior professional training;
• Absolute safety of the material. No toxic harmful substances are released;
• Relatively low cost of pipe structures made of HDPE.

Advantages of polymer products:

• Long service life;
• Relatively light weight;
• Corrosion resistance;
• Low thermal conductivity;
• No plaque forms on a smooth surface;
• High throughput of products;
• Assembly and installation can be completed without any difficulty.

Polymer pipes can be used for about 30 years. Propylene pipes are characterized by high throughput. Metal constructions After some time they may become clogged.

A wide range of pipes offered by modern construction stores, allows you to create any functionality and technical capabilities water pipes.

Pipes for water supply systems last from 20 to 100 years

When carrying out renovation work in an apartment or when constructing a new private house, the question of which water supply pipes to choose becomes especially relevant for the home owner. The duration and trouble-free functioning of cold and hot water supply systems directly depends on how correctly the selection of these products is made. The choice of pipes is complicated by their wide variety. An ordinary person may well be confused by the assortment available in construction stores.

To prevent this from happening, experts advise focusing on the following: key features when purchasing pipes:

• price;
• quality declared by the manufacturer;
• technical capabilities of products;
• ease of installation with your own hands.

Currently, water supply systems in high-rise apartments are equipped with steel, polypropylene, metal-plastic, copper, and polyethylene products. Also, pipelines are made of stainless metal pipes. Copper lines last the longest (up to 100 years). Pipelines made of metal-plastic and polypropylene are used for up to 30 years, those made of stainless steel and polyethylene - up to 50. But structures made of ordinary steel need to be replaced every 20-25 years of use.

Steel products - many advantages, but also many disadvantages

During the Soviet era, pipes made from carbon steel were almost the only option for building reliable water pipelines. Highways from such products are still made today. Steel pipes for water supply are characterized by the following advantages:

• The low linear expansion of the material makes it possible to install highways without the need to install special compensators.
• Steel structures hold temperature well. They can be used for hot water supply (DHW) systems without worrying about the pipeline melting.
• Ability to withstand almost any pressure of the supplied fluid. Even very strong water pressure is not able to damage the integrity of steel lines.

The main disadvantage of the pipes described is the complexity of their installation. Not every home craftsman can on your own assemble a high-quality system using welding machine. The latter, moreover, is not available to everyone. And of course, there is no point in purchasing a welder in order to replace the pipes in an apartment once every 20–50 years.

Stainless steel products are characterized by all the advantages described above. In addition, they are not subject to corrosion during operation. Due to this, liquid with a rusty taste never flows from stainless water pipes. Such pipe products are allowed to be used for the construction of both internal and external networks water supply. Stainless steel pipes are much easier to install than conventional steel pipes. But the cost of structures that are not afraid of corrosion is significantly higher. This determines their rather low demand these days.

Copper pipelines - if price is not a factor

In cases where you plan to create an almost eternal water supply system, it is recommended to use copper products. Such pipes are the most durable (they last 100 years or more). The duration of their operation is due to the special characteristics of copper, as well as special technologies for their connection and installation. Assembly copper networks carried out:

1. 1. Through express fittings.
2. 2. Soldering.

The first technique is based on the use of special connecting parts. The fittings are pulled onto the pipe joints, and then pressed into place using special tools - pliers. It is impossible to perform this procedure poorly (even for a person who is doing such work for the first time in his life).

Soldering copper pipes is a more complex installation option. It is not advisable to do it yourself. Firstly, the operation requires a certain professionalism. Secondly, soldering is carried out using special equipment, which is in the arsenal home craftsman may not be.

Note that the high price is not the only drawback of copper products. You should also take into account the complexity of connecting the steel, plastic and copper parts of the plumbing. This operation is performed differently in each specific case. Moreover, all the nuances of installing such pipelines can only be known by experienced master.

Plastic lines - modern, inexpensive, easy to install

Polypropylene, metal-plastic and polyethylene pipes are now at the peak of their popularity. They are most often chosen by self-taught craftsmen who want to do all the work without the involvement of specialists. Installation plastic structures does not require the use of expensive equipment. And the technology itself for assembling such networks is clear and simple.

Metal-plastic pipes for water supply have a truly impressive appearance. They do not rust, their shell does not conduct electricity. Installation of metal-plastic is carried out using fittings. There are a lot of varieties of the latter (they are sold in all plumbing stores), which allows you to create any network configuration. But these types of pipes for water supply systems are characterized by two rather serious disadvantages:

1. 1. Low resistance to mechanical influences.
2. 2. Insufficient reliability of joints. The connection areas of metal-plastic products weaken due to cyclic fluctuations in the temperature of the supplied medium. For this reason, they are strictly not recommended for building hot water supply systems.

Polyethylene (PE) pipelines with low temperatures retain their original strength. In some cases this is important. If the water freezes in the main in winter, you do not have to worry about the integrity of the PE pipes. After defrosting, they will begin to perform their functions again. Moreover, you will not find any leaks or breakdowns in the system. Polyethylene pipe products are easy to install, light weight, and low cost.

Note! Conventional PE pipes are not suitable for hot water supply. They are allowed to supply warm (with a temperature of no more than +40–45 °C) and cold liquids. Hot water supply networks should be constructed exclusively from pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene. This material is created specifically for hot environments.

Polypropylene (PP) pipes are now in greatest demand. They are suitable for supplying cold and hot (up to +100°) water. Installation of PP products is carried out using a low-temperature - easy-to-use and inexpensive soldering iron. Polypropylene does not burn under the influence of this tool, but only melts. This ensures reliability and 100% tightness of the resulting connections.

The soldering iron is sold at any hardware store at a low price. Don't hesitate to buy this tool. The cost of calling a specialist to assemble a polypropylene water supply will be significantly higher than the cost of a soldering iron, which, by the way, can be used to work with any PP products (not just pipe ones).

We hope we have helped you decide which pipes are best to purchase to create a durable, easy-to-use self-installation and affordable running water. Build the optimal water supply system for your apartment and enjoy it uninterrupted operation for many decades.

The range of pipes for the communications device is extensive. The 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 water supply to a house or apartment.

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

In our material we will try to understand the subtleties of choice, and also tell you how to determine the optimal diameter of the pipeline.

How to determine the required pipe size?

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

Pipes can easily be gas welded, but, nevertheless, their installation is more difficult than installing a pipeline made of other materials. In addition, welding can not always be used and not in all rooms.

Steel components and parts are ordered from specialized workshops and stores. To connect the 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 a steel pipeline are weak anti-corrosion properties, high degree clogging. It must be periodically cleaned of accumulated plaque, otherwise it loses its throughput. In this case, you cannot use alkaline products, which corrode the metal and the pipes begin to leak over time.

Option #2 - copper pipes

Copper pipelines are least susceptible to negative factors that affect strength and service life. It does not corrode, does not form plaque, and does not deform due to changes in temperature.

When interacting with chlorine compounds contained in water from centralized water supply systems, it does not form harmful compounds.

Copper pipes are easy to process - they can be easily bent or joined using gas welding or high-temperature soldering

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, the properties of different types of products can differ greatly.

Thanks to the many positive characteristics, when designing and constructing pipelines, plastic pipes are very often used. They are characterized primarily by high corrosion resistance.

Unlike metal products they do not require special protective coating, have less weight, which simplifies and facilitates the installation process and transportation. Their inherent flexibility makes it possible to reduce the number of bent inserts and connecting elements.

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

The predicted service life of a plastic pipeline is 50 years. But it must be remembered that the manufacturer specifies the timing for the operation of the product at a certain and stable temperature.

Among the disadvantages - they are easily damaged, exposed to the negative effects of subzero temperatures, becoming fragile. Carry out installation when sub-zero temperatures absolutely not recommended. They cannot be used when installing wiring sections located near open sources of fire and in places of direct solar radiation.

The temperature of water transported through the pipeline, which differs from standard values, also has an impact 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.

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

Plastic pipeline is general characteristics products made from plastic. This includes products made of polyethylene, polypropylene, and 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 using welding.

Polypropylene pipes (PP) include several types of products, which may differ slightly in the composition of raw materials for production and are designated as PPH, PPR and PPB. 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 impact 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 parts are connected into a 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. Wide choose their configurations and sizes make it easy to assemble the most complex plumbing systems.

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

When purchasing products, they are inspected for cracks, burrs, and signs of peeling. Often these defects appear due to improper storage or transportation.

Selectively measure the wall thickness, outside diameter. Check the functionality of valves and taps. Shaped elements must be free of breaks, sharp edges, and 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 quality products, violation of production technology

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

Option #4 – metal-plastic pipes

Pipes made of metal-plastic 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 “overlapping”, and an aluminum layer that serves as a frame. The metal layer can be solid, perforated or spiral-shaped.

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Pipeline installation can be carried out without using welding equipment, which means 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 areas where the sections and reinforcement are connected 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 about 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 between plastic pipes - polypropylene, polyethylene, metal-plastic:

How to choose pipes for plumbing. Pro Tips:

When buying a pipe for a water supply system, 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, the advice of an experienced specialist will help determine which pipes are best to choose for the water supply and how to avoid common mistakes.

What can be used to make plumbing? Today we are going to get acquainted with the materials used in water supply, their key features And normative documents, according to which different types of pipes for water supply are produced. Let's get started.

Announce the entire list

1. What materials of pipes for water supply does the modern market offer?

Here is a list of the most popular solutions:

The video in this article will allow you to learn more about which pipes to choose for plumbing.

Restrictions

1. What pipe materials are for internal water supply can be used in apartment building?

First - a short lecture on the arrangement of the hot water system in most houses of the old fund.

DHW is supplied to the apartment directly from the heating main through connections into the supply and return of the elevator unit. The supply water temperature (depending on the street temperature) can vary from 60 to 150 degrees. Switching the water supply between supply and return is done manually, which makes the actual operating conditions of the water supply system completely dependent on the so-called human factor.

In addition: in any circuit with continuous circulation of water, there is a high probability of water hammer occurring. For a pressure surge, it is enough to instantly stop the flow by quickly closing the valve or ball valve.

Hence the restrictions in the choice of material: in houses with hot water supplied through an elevator unit for hot water supply, only metal pipes can be used. There are only four varieties - steel (black and galvanized), copper and stainless steel. All plastics tolerate combination very poorly high temperatures and pressure surges: at best, the combination of these factors leads to accelerated degradation of the walls of the water supply system, at worst - to its instant destruction.

Please note: if the owner of the property replaced the water supply using materials not provided for in the building design, he will have to cover all damage from flooding of neighbors.

Life time

1. What is the service life of water supply pipes?

Here are the official data for different materials:

• Black steel - 10-15 years;

• Galvanization - 20-30 years;

It’s curious: the galvanized water pipes, risers and heating connections that were opened by the author were invariably in perfect condition. The operation of water supply pipes for 50-60 years has not led to the appearance of deposits or corrosion. Therefore, in the author’s opinion, the indicated periods can be considered underestimated.

• Copper - from 50 years;

Note: Elders copper water pipes have been in use for the second century and still perform their functions perfectly.

• For corrugated stainless steel pipes, a completely unlimited service life is declared, with the only clarification: after 30 years, the O-rings in the fittings need to be changed;

• PVC and PE serve in cold water for at least half a century;
• For other types of pipes (polypropylene, cross-linked and heat-resistant polyethylene, metal-plastic), service life is usually stated at 50 years in cold water and 25 in hot water.

Let us clarify: for hot water supply these service lifes are correct only if the temperature standards recommended by the manufacturer are observed. The higher the water temperature, the faster the polymer degrades.

Dimensions

1. What diameters of water supply pipes can be used when installing an internal water supply system with your own hands?

Connections: internal diameter 15 mm with 2-4 points of water intake and length from the input or riser to the far plumbing fixture no more than 10 meters. If the line is longer or more water points are connected to it, the diameter increases by one step.

Risers in an apartment building: internal diameter 20 mm for 5 floors, 25 for 9-10 floors and 32 mm for buildings with more floors.

Spills in an apartment building: 40-100 mm depending on the number of consumers.

Please note: for steel pipes, a nominal diameter is indicated, which with a minimum error can be considered equal to the internal diameter. But for all polymer and metal-polymer pipes, manufacturers indicate the outer diameter, so when replacing a steel water supply system, their size should be one step larger (20 mm instead of 15, 32 instead of 25, and so on).

Normative documents

1. What water supply pipe standards are currently in use?

According to GOST, only a portion of the water pipes on the market are produced. Much more often, specifications (technical conditions) are used, and in the case of imported products, the standards of the manufacturing country or international regulatory documents are applied.

Here is a list of applicable domestic standards:

• Black and galvanized steel pipes are produced in accordance with GOST 3262-75;

• Copper water and gas pipes - according to GOST R 52318;
• Metal-plastic - according to GOST R 53630-2009;
• GOST 18599-2001 standardizes the production and characteristics of pipes for external water supply made of polyethylene;
• Finally, GOST R 52134-2003 is relevant for all thermoplastic pipes.

Connection methods

1. What fittings and adapters for water supply pipes are used when installing water pipelines?

Typical problems

1. What defects in water supply pipes most often lead to water supply leaks?

Here is a list of typical problems for different materials.

• Black steel: through corrosion along longitudinal electric welded seams (all VGP pipes are made by folding flat tape followed by welding of the seam) and along the grooves of the threads;

In addition: black steel plumbing often has to be replaced not because of corrosion, but because of a critical decrease in bandwidth sediments.

• Galvanizing: installation on welded joints leads to corrosion in the weld area;

• Copper: plumbing can only suffer from mechanical damage;
• Metal-plastic: rupture of the shell or longitudinal seam of laser welding on the core due to water hammer;

In addition: metal-polymer pipes leak at fitting connections if installed incorrectly. If the pipe is not calibrated and the internal chamfer is not removed from its end, when connected to the fitting, it pulls the o-ring out of its groove and is pressed directly onto the brass fitting. As a result, after several heating and cooling cycles, the polymer of the inner shell is squeezed out of the gap between the core and the fitting.

• Polypropylene and other thermoplastics: degradation due to prolonged overheating with subsequent rupture of the pipe walls.

For aluminum-reinforced polypropylene, delamination can result from welding with a fitting without preliminary cleaning: in this case, the aluminum comes into contact with tap water and under certain conditions suffers from electrochemical corrosion.

Heating

1. How to avoid defrosting of the water supply in winter when laying it in an unheated room?

The pipeline is supplied cable system heating As an option, special heated pipes are used for water supply (for example, domestic Isopex).

How is such a pipe constructed?

• The inner shell is made of polyethylene high density or PEX;
• The outer shell is made of low density polyethylene;
• Between the shells there is a layer of insulation - polyurethane foam;
• A self-regulating heating cable is laid in the cable channel in the insulation. Its polymer matrix increases power consumption (and therefore temperature) only when cooled, with each section of the cable changing its heat output independently of the others. This ensures significant energy savings compared to traditional resistive heating cables.

Conclusion

We hope that we were able to help the reader choose the right solution for his own plumbing. The video in this article will allow you to learn more about where it is used and how metal and polymer pipes for water supply are installed. Good luck!