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Pipes, valves & fi ttings


A versatile piping solution


Installing a safe pipe system that is compliant and effi cient starts by selecting the right product for the project. Suitable pipes will contribute to increases in the energy effi ciency of a building, reducing management costs to a minimum whilst off ering the fi nal user a more comfortable environment. Among the factors to consider are the temperatures that the pipe can handle and its resistance to cold


M


ulti-layer pipes for heating and hydro sanitary systems, including potable water, are a versatile option that combines the benefi ts


of metallic and polymeric materials for unparalleled resistance in any fi eld of use.


Multi-layer pipes: the winning stratifi cation plastic-metal


A multi-layer pipe is made of three diff erent layers joined by two layers of adhesive that combine the strengths of metal with those of plastic materials. This pipe composition was conceived to satisfy the requirements of designers and installers by bypassing the lack of raw materials for a result that guarantees high resistance and performance. Aquatechnik’s multi-calor pipe is formed with a particular extrusion technique, starting with the internal layer of the pipe that is created in the fi rst phase by merging cross-linked polyethylene with additives and catalysts. The second extruder applies an adhesive layer and an aluminium layer. After the perfect calibration of the latter, TIG sealing allows thickness uniformity along the pipe circumference and in the sealing point. Subsequently, the third extruder covers the aluminium layer with adhesive to attach the fi nal layer of cross-linked polyethylene. The stratifi cation PEX-Al-PEX grants notable


advantages to Aquatechnik’s multi-calor pipe: it is resistant to corrosion, hygienic and not permeable to oxygen and light. It has a reduced thermal expansion compared to most plastic materials and keeps heat thanks to its composition. It off ers a resistant and long- lasting system like metal pipes but is lighter and more fl exible. It is a combination that guarantees an effi cient installation and overcomes many specifi c challenges of the materials that could cause signifi cant costs or malfunctions to the system.


Features of resistance: the temperatures of multi-layers


The multi-layer pipe has an expected lifespan of at least 50 years at a pressure of 10 bar and continuous temperatures of 70°C with peaks of 95°C, as requested by the norm UNI EN 21003. For temperatures below 95°C, pipes can resist pressures above 10 bar, maintaining reliability over time and increasing their expected life. In extreme weather conditions, these multi-layer


pipes can work up to minimum temperatures of -45°C. For operation below 0°C, it is necessary to use anti- freezing or glycol additives. Multi-calor pipes are certifi ed for all four classes of


application for the international norm UNI EN 21003 for pressures up to 10 bar. They are available pre-insulated for heating and


hydro sanitary systems at high temperatures for energy containment. The isoline version of the pipe is coated with cell-expanded polyethylene with a resistance factor against diff usion of steam of around 5000 µ and thermal conductivity particularly low of =0,040 W/mk. Multi-calor pipes are also available in isoline plus, which coating has a thermal conductivity equal to 0,035 W/mk.


Cold resistance due to cross-linked polyethylene


Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is a modifi ed material in the molecular structure through the formation of lateral chemical links in the polymeric chains. Crosslinking improves performance, including resistance to high temperatures, chemicals and abrasion. The intrinsic fl exibility of cross-linked polyethylene also grants excellent resistance to ruptures from freezing. This means that if water or


other fl uids freeze inside PEX pipes, the material’s elasticity allows, within certain limits, to expand without bending or breaking and reset to the original diameter after defrosting. There are variables in an installation that can


cause a breakdown of PEX in certain situations. When installed outside, there must be adequate thermal insulation to avoid ice formation. How much isolation or anti-freeze is necessary to guarantee adequate protection depends on the building’s location and climate zone. Moreover, local building norms and regulations are applied.


A suitable solution


A multi-layer pipe is a suitable solution for designers and installers looking for high performing and effi cient solutions. With applications in any sector, from the civilian to the industrial and tertiary, multi-calor are suited for all installations.


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