Crimp-style fittings are gaining a lot of attention off lately as it is an economical type of PEX fittings that are found everywhere, from supply houses to home improvements and stores. In comparison to ultrasound overlapped multilayer pipes, Pex-Al-Pex is welded on both ends of aluminium sheet, which results in high-possible resistance to bear harsh conditions. 

Pex-al-pex tubes usually come in rolls, which can be cut into any specific length and are easy to transport. It takes advantage of the chemical, corrosion resistance, and pressure potential of metal by coating aluminium layer between plastic layers. The finished product is bendable, non-corroding, flexible, and can be able to withstand oils, fats, acids, and alkalis.

What is Pex-Al-Pex Pipes?

This term gets its name for a sandwich-layered structure that is comprised of polyethylene plastic (PEX) for the outside layer, a middle layer of aluminium (Al), and the other type of polyethylene plastic (PEX) for the inner layer. It is considered an evolution of pex pipes as it assures high safety with pex-al-pex layers that improve the creep resistance.

Pex-al-pex crimp fittings are approved for use across all plumbing and mechanical codes, often used for plumbing, underfloor heating, snow/ice melting system, and more.

Salient Features of Pex-Al-Pex Pipes

• Easy Joint Assembly – These joints are typically designed with either crimp-on connector rings or compression fittings. These are easy and quick to finish, without any need for soldering and torching them.
• Flexibility – It is easy to bend with hands in any direction and will remain in a fixed position. It allows you to work through existing frame members, walls, and floor joists.
• Resistant to Frost Cracking – It is better as compared to rigid piping when battling the surface pressure of freezing water. A specialist will inspect pipes to endure freeze and melt cycles before cracking takes place.

Why Use Pex-Al-Pex Pipes?

Pex-al-pex tubing and fittings are generally seen in outdoor heating systems, warm board systems, and high-temperature systems like fan coils and baseboards. The trend of these pipes has begun from radiant heating systems. They seem perfect for such applications as the pipes can hold their shapes.

Other uses of pex-al-pex tubing include:

• Hot and cold water plumbing distribution, in both commercial and residential areas
• Radiant heating and cooling purposes, such as ceilings, walls, and floors
•  Ice and snow melting
• Hydronic pipe and distribution
• Pitch heating/turb conditioning
• Chilled water pipe

Advantages of pex-al-pex pipes:

• Lightweight and compact, making it easy for transportation
• Endless options for fitting and joining as no flame is used
• Durable and firm to withstand tough working conditions
• Non-corrosive as aluminum layer limits oxygen from infiltrating into pipes
• Flexible still maintains its shape
• Immune to tuberculation and deposits
• Safety of drinking water and reliability for the long run

Wrapping Up

Pex-al-pex pipes are generally used in a residential plumbing system and in pressure applications on compressed gas and air systems. You can even combine them with metal fittings for additional advantage.

It is always best to do your homework in advance and understand the essential factors when it comes to choosing pex-al-pex pipes for your business operations.