PEX pipes have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. They are commonly used in plumbing, radiant heating systems, and even in industrial applications. With the availability of it, it can be difficult to determine which is best for multilayer pipes. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between the three types of PEX pipes and highlight the advantages and disadvantages of each.
PEX-A Pipes
PEX-A pipes are made using the Engel method, where the pipes are extruded using a high-temperature, high-pressure process. This results in a highly cross-linked pipe that has excellent flexibility and durability. PEX-A pipes are also capable of withstanding high temperatures and pressure, making them a suitable choice for hot water and steam applications.
One of the advantages of PEX-A pipes is that they are able to self-heal when subjected to high pressure or extreme temperatures. This means that if the pipes are accidentally damaged during installation, they can repair themselves over time.It also have memory, which means that they can return to their original shape even after being bent or curved.
On the downside, PEX-A pipes are more expensive than their counterparts, and they can be more difficult to install due to their high flexibility. They also require special tools for installation, which can add to the overall cost.
PEX-B Pipes
PEX-B pipes are made using the Silane method, where the pipes are extruded using a lower temperature and lower pressure process. This results in a pipe that has a lower cross-linking density, making it less flexible than PEX-A pipes. However, they are still highly durable and capable of handling high temperatures and pressure.
One of the advantages of it is that they are less expensive than PEX-A pipes. They also have better resistance to chlorine and other chemicals, making them a suitable choice for water treatment applications.
On the downside, Multilayer Pipes are not capable of self-healing like PEX-A pipes. They also have a memory effect that is not as strong, which means that they may not return to their original shape after being bent or curved.
PEX-C Pipes
EX-C pipes are made using the Electronic Irradiation method, where the pipes are exposed to high-energy electrons to cross-link the molecules. This results in a pipe that has a similar cross-linking density as PEX-A pipes, but with less flexibility.
One of the advantages of PEX-C pipes is that they are less expensive than PEX-A pipes and require fewer installation tools. They also have good resistance to chemicals and UV radiation, making them a suitable choice for outdoor applications.
On the downside, PEX-C pipes are not capable of self-healing like PEX-A pipes, and they may not be suitable for high-temperature applications.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best PEX pipes for multilayer pipes, it ultimately depends on your specific application and budget. PEX-A pipes are the most flexible and durable, but also the most expensive. PEX-B pipes are less flexible but more affordable, while PEX-C pipes offer a balance between cost and durability. It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each type before making your final decision.