The primary difference between PEX and PEX Al PEX lies in the construction and the additional layer of aluminum in the PEX Al PEX system. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
1. Construction:
- PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene): PEX is a single-layer pipe made of cross-linked polyethylene. It is flexible, durable, and commonly used in plumbing systems for both hot and cold water.
- PEX A PEX Pipe:The aluminum layer provides additional strength, stability, and other unique properties.
2. Strength and Stability:
- PEX: While PEX is strong and flexible, it is more susceptible to expanding or deforming under high temperature and pressure.
- PEX Al PEX: The aluminum layer in provides extra rigidity and dimensional stability, which helps the pipe maintain its shape and resist expansion or contraction under temperature fluctuations.
3. Flexibility:
- PEX: PEX is highly flexible and can be easily bent and curved around obstacles, which makes installation faster and more convenient.
- PEX Al PEX: While still flexible, PEX Al PEX is slightly less flexible than standard PEX because of the aluminum layer.
4. Oxygen Barrier:
- PEX: Standard PEX pipes do not have an oxygen barrier, which means oxygen can permeate through the walls of the pipe, potentially causing corrosion in metal components of the system.
- PEX Al PEX: The aluminum layer in it provides an effective oxygen barrier, making it more suitable for applications such as radiant heating systems, where preventing oxygen from entering the system is critical to protecting metal parts from corrosion.
5. Temperature and Pressure Resistance:
- PEX: Standard PEX can handle a wide range of temperatures (typically up to 200°F or 93°C) and pressure levels, but over time, it may weaken under very high heat.
- PEX A PEX Pipe: This makes it more suitable for systems exposed to higher temperatures, such as hot water distribution and radiant floor heating.
6. Installation:
- PEX: PEX installation is straightforward and often requires crimping tools or push-fit fittings. It is usually the go-to choice for residential plumbing because of ease of installation.
- PEX Al PEX: Installation of PEX Al PEX requires special fittings designed to accommodate the multi-layer construction.
7. Cost:
- PEX: PEX is generally more affordable compared to PEX Al PEX, making it a popular choice for standard plumbing systems.
- PEX Al PEX: PEX Al PEX tends to be more expensive due to the added layer of aluminum and the additional manufacturing processes involved.
Summary:
- PEX: Single-layer pipe made of cross-linked polyethylene, more flexible, easier to install, and less expensive.
- PEX Al PEX: Multi-layer pipe with an inner and outer layer of PEX and a middle layer of aluminum, offering superior rigidity, temperature stability, and an oxygen barrier, but typically requires special fittings and tools.
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Standard:ISO 15874、EN 15874、ASTM F2389、DIN 8077/8078、GB/T 18742、NBR 15884
