The pipe is manufactured in 16mm, 20mm sizes and supplied in 50 metre and/or 5 metre straight lengths. 25mm pipe is available in 25 metre and/or 5 metre straight lengths. The pipe is manufactured in accordance with A.S. 2492, which is far more exacting than other approved plastics materials. Because the pipe is flexible and available in coils you can often use less fittings on a job.
AUSPEX PIPE is a Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PE-X) Pipe manufactured in accordance with A.S.2492-1994 - Cross-linked Polyethylene (PE-X) Pipe for Hot and Cold Water Applications. The system is intended for use by licensed plumbing tradesmen, who are experienced in working to accepted plumbing practices.
Installations should be carried out in accordance with accepted plumbing practices and instructions provided in this manual where practical. However, the installer should also be aware of local authority codes and by-laws relevant to plumbing, which take precedence over these guidelines in any area where they vary.
The requirements of the National Plumbing Codes (A.S/NZS. 3500 1.1/2: and 3500. 4.1/2) should also be adhered to.
| PRESSURE DERATING OF PIPES ACCORDING TO PIPE MATERIAL TEMPERATURE (PMT) A.S.2492 | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pipe material temperature (PMT) | ||||||
| 20 C | 40 C | 60 C | 80 C | 95 C | 100 C | |
| PN | Working pressure, MPa | |||||
| 16 | 1.60 | 1.48 | 1.28 | 1.05 | 0.80 | 0.70 |
| Working pressure, P.S.I. | ||||||
| 16 | 232 | 214 | 186 | 152 | 116 | 101 |
The PE-X pipe has significantly better temperature/pressure than most other plastic materials. If the above tables are likely to be exceeded, refer to table 4.2. in A.S/NZS 3500 4.2: for valve installation requirements. Eg. Cold water expansion valves and/or pressure limiting valves. Contact Auspex if necessary
Kinks, cuts, deep scratches, squashed ends, imperfections or have been in contact with grease or tar substances.
Any of the above should be cut out and replaced, as these conditions may affect the integrity of the system.
Ten times the outside diameter of the pipe used.
| diameter | radii |
|---|---|
| 16mm | 160mm |
| 20mm | 200mm |
| 25mm | 250mm |
Bending of the pipe for change of direction is preferable to elbows, however fittings will be required where sharp bends are necessary. Tighter bends can be achieved by using a bend support.
A.S.3500 recommend the following spacings:
| diameter | horizontal | vertical |
|---|---|---|
| 16mm | 600mm | 1200mm |
| 20mm | 700mm | 1400mm |
| 25mm | 750mm | 1500mm |
The above is a guide only. Good plumbing practice requires that clipping be installed so that stress is not imposed on the joint. When bending close to a joint, clips should be placed near the fitting in a manner not to stress the joint.
The pipe can handle thermal expansion because of its flexibility. Synthetic are recommended. It should freely move through the clips, studs, plates or walls.
Care should be taken in regard to contraction. Where pipes are installed between fixed points, allow 10mm slack per metre for contraction to overcome undue pressure on the joints if contraction occurs.
The formula for calculating expansion rates is as follows:
∆l = a x L x ∆T
∆l = linear expansion in mm
a = coefficient of linear expansion is 0.15 mm/mK
L = length of pipe in metres
∆T = temperature difference
The approximate expansion rate of PE-X is 7.5mm per metre in a change of temperature of 50ēC.
Drill holes through studs, plates etc. large enough so that the pipe can move freely through the holes to allow for expansion and contraction and pressure surges. Refer to AS 3500. Ensure that the pipe is protected when bending against frames etc. To avoid noises where pipes pass through studs, plates etc. that have large holes, consideration should be given to the use of a non aggressive compound, grommet or sleeve in the annular space in the stud or plate.
Ensure that where a pipe passes through a steel frame, a suitable sleeve or grommet is used to protect the pipe against raw edges so it is still able to move through the protective medium.
PE-X can be installed under a slab provided the requirements of AS 3500 are followed. Fittings under a slab should be kept to a minimum.
The pipe is manufactured in accordance with A.S.2492 however it is coloured in a special lilac colour specified and branded in accordance with the authorities requirements for the distribution of water not suitable for human consumption. This water is generally used for watering gardens and supply to cisterns. Lilac pipe should not be stored in direct sunlight.
Always check with the manufacturer before using PE-X pipe other than for potable water. Always check with the manufacturer if the pipework is to be installed in a known contaminated area, in contaminated soils or may be subject to chemical spills.
It is of the utmost importance that if a metallic pipe is being replaced or installed in part or in its entirety by a plastic pipe or other non-metallic fittings or couplings, the requirements of A.S.3500 must be followed. No work should be carried out until the earth requirements have been checked by an electrical contractor and modified if necessary.