Multilayer pipes PERT-AL-PERT

Based on pipes made in special technology, along with a broad range of fitting elements and accessories which make every type of connection possible, PERT is a complete installation solution.

PERT system offer includes pipes and fittings in 16 - 75mm diameters with a set of essential accessories and installation tools dedicated to specific applications of the system.

PERT system based on multilayer pipes joined by pressed connections is currently one of the most advanced and innovative solutions available on the market. This is determined by two factors - the construction of the pipes and the connection technology. PERT pipes have a multilayer structure - their core is made from an ultrasonically welded aluminium pipe. After adding two layers of the raised temperature polyethylene (PERT) material to the inside and outside of the aluminium pipe, we obtain a multilayer pipe capable of simultaneous work under the influence of pressure and temperature rated at 10 bar and 95°C. This unique combination of plastic material and the conventional aluminium insert allows PERT pipes to keep the advantages of both, traditional and plastic pipes while eliminating their disadvantages.

PERT system is ideal for both new investments and renovations of old installations in residential, public and historical buildings.

• durability - elastic material structure is very resistant to constant impacts of pressure and temperature, system components can operate for minimum 50 years
• energy-saving - due to low pressure losses and low thermal conductivity
• hygienic - PERT plastics are non toxic ,neutral in relation to water and can be recycled
• versality  - PERT system is recommended for use in following types of installation:
  • cold/hot utility water
  • central heating (radiator connections)
  • surface heating
  • compressed air
  • ice water
  • technological and industrial
• flexibility with no shape remembrance  - multilayer pipes are more flexible than any other known pipes and can be bended without any supports. Bending radius is on the level of 4-5 x Dn
• thermal stability (0.025mm/mK) - very low thermal expansion coefficient (0.025mm/mK), is comparable with values characteristic for steel or copper pipes
• resistance for oxygen diffusion - both pipes and fittings are totally resistant for oxygen diffusion
• total impermeability of connections
• possibility of making connection with any other pipe by using threaded couplings
• high chemical resistance
  
• low weight

PERT system pipes are manufactured of plastic raw material known as raised temperature polyethylene

To put it very simply, the structure of this material is similar to balls of wool which are merged mutually with side threads, resulting in a structure that is very tangled but very strong and difficult to break. When it comes to pipes, this translates into high resistance to temperature and pressure, which is so important in plumbing and heating systems.

Comparison of structures for PERT material and standard plastic materials

Pipes

The foundation of PERT system is based on multilayer pipes consisting of:

• unltrasonic-welded aluminium base pipe, with overlap
• inner and outer PERT layers
• binder integrating individual pipe layers

PERT system pipes offer a unique combination of the advantages of plastic and metal, while eliminating the drawbacks of these materials.

Cross-section of PERT multilayer pipe

Fittings - joining technique

System components are connected with three types of fittings.

Brass press fittings, nickel plated

The specificity of joints within the system is based on the technology of pressing, consisting of mechanical fixation of plastic with fitting brass. These types of joints are:

• sureness - pressing ensures absolute lack of leaks, with minimal risk of errors - unlike welded or soldered installations
• ease of installation – user friendly pressing tools operation
• quickness and repeatability – the technology of pressing is 5 times faster to manufacture than conventional soldered copper
• versatility – through the use of transition fittings equipped with threads, you can easily connect the PERT system components with all types of fittings

Cross-section of PERT pressed connection

Pressed connections are performed using a manual or electric pressing tools, equipped with U profile clamping jaws. Connections should be preceded by chamfering of pipe's inner surface using Tweetop bevelling tool .

Brass press-screw fittings - connector core type (optionally nickel plated)

Fittings of this type are necessary when making connections with PERT system manifolds and radiators (they have an Euroconus chamfer type). To perform the connection following tools are required:

• system bevelling tool
• fitter's wrench

Connector core type fitting

Remaining press-screw fittings – made from brass, nickel plated

Fittings of this type are useful for surface-mounted installations - connections with press-screw type fittings are considered to be separable and as such can not be used on installations carried beneath the floor or plaster surface.

This type of connection is very similar to the one using connector core type fittings. The only difference is in the type of fittings chamfer, which in this case is typical for water systems.

Press-screw fitting

The advantages of PERT-Al-PERT multilayer pipes compared to metallic pipes are the following:

• Frost resistance. In case of frost, multilayer pipes, thanks to their flexibility, will simply expand. This advantage avoids the break risk of metallic pipes.
• Low thermal conductivity. The low thermal conductivity of multilayer pipes produces energy savings as heat losses are reduced.
• Lightness. Multilayer pipes are lighter than metallic pipes. So, handling and transport are much easier.
• Flexibility. The flexibility of multilayer pipes saves time in the installation process.
• Noise reduction. Metallic pipes are very noisy at water speeds exceeding 1m/second. To the contrary, multilayer pipes do not make noise at lower speeds than 2,5m/second.
• Corrosion resistance. Multilayer pipes bear a great number of chemical agents (acids, bases, etc.) and are resistant to any type of corrosion.
• Long lifetime. Multilayer pipes lifetime is bigger than the lifetime of metallic pipes. The lifetime of multilayer pipes can reach 50 years, even at high temperature and pressure conditions.
• Suitable for drinking water. Multilayer pipes keep organoleptic properties of the water and its use is allowed by European Union authorities.