PEX is a water plumbing arrangement made from high density polyethylene pipes. specific PEX fittings are used to link PEX tubing. PEX tubing is a supple material that is simpler and less costly to put in, is resistant to erosion and calls for fewer fittings than copper plumbing schemes.
In cold temperatures PEX tubes retain their flexibility and do not become brittle and break. Unlike metal pipes, PEX tubes will not rust and will not build up scale. PEX tubing is energy efficient as well because they do not conduct heat.
PEX tubing is wrapped in spools. Because reels weigh less than cut metal or plastic pipes, they are easier to store and cost less to ship. Tubing can be unwound from the spools with no demand for coupling fittings. Installation is much quicker and cheaper when it does not involve the running of pipe.
There are a number of connection methods some of which are patented. But basically the fitting is placed either over or into the tube and a ring is pinched on to the tube or fittings. Rings can be built of plastic, copper or stainless steel. There are proprietary joining systems which require special tools and fittings.
The tools you will use when installing PEX are a PEX pipe cutter, a main crimping tool and a de-crimping tool. The PEX pipe cutter comes in different sizes for 1/2″ and 3/4″ size pipes. Rings are crimped using the crimping tool. The de-crimping tool is utilised for removing rings from tubes or fittings.
Fittings can be made of brass, bronze, copper or engineered plastic but the most popular material in PEX plumbing is brass. The fittings have ridges designed to form a tight fit. When the ring is crimped over the tube or fitting a high-pressure seal is formed.
Water plumbing arrangements that take advantage of PEX tubing and PEX fittings have definite benefits. The materials are less expensive than metal and plastic pipes. Less fittings are required. The Installation process is simpler and quicker. Your system will never corrode or burst so it will last longer with less potential troubles.