DOMESTIC PIPES
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The best of both worlds: unlocking the potential of plastic and MLCP
D
espite continuous innovation across the plumbing market, the debate over materials never seems to go away. The most common
is discussions around the performance, installation and other benefi ts of plastic versus its metal counterparts, with trades often feeling they face a decision between the two. But what if the choice wasn’t so black and white? What if combining diff erent materials could unlock even greater performance, effi ciency and longevity for your installations? Advances in plumbing systems now make it possible to bring together the best features of plastic and multilayer composite piping (MLCP), off ering plumbers a way to deliver exceptional results for your customers.
Materials – an evaluation
Durability and ease of installation are essential considerations when specifying materials and plastic has earned its place as a favourite. In 2001, only 7% of new residential properties featured plastic pipes, but by 2007, this fi gure had shot up to 90%. Plastic fi ttings dominate today’s market for good reason – they’re lightweight, cost-eff ective and resistant to corrosion. Innovations such as Wavin’s Hep2O Keyless
fi ttings have pushed plastic even further into the spotlight. These fi ttings eliminate the need for tools to connect products and allow quick, reliable connections – ideal when you’re busy. Aside from plastic, multilayer composite piping
(MLCP) continues to be a popular choice for installers. Introduced to the market back in the 1970s, MLCP is still a relatively new material and combines the benefi ts of both plastic and metal in one system. MLCP off ers the fl exibility of plastic
Steve Harris, technical support engineer at plumbing and drainage solutions manufacturer, Wavin, explains how combining plastic and MLCP fi ttings can be of benefi t – and, vitally, how to do it right
smoothly and delivers the performance you need. Preparation is key. Combination cutters are the best option here, and it’s important that cuts are made perpendicular to the pipe to remove burrs or sharp edges that could compromise long-term performance. Following this, calibration and chamfering will ensure long-term performance. If Wavin’s calibration tools are used, when working with its products, you can lock in the system’s 10- year guarantee. Next, the MLCP pipe can be inserted into the
fi tting. To ensure a secure, watertight joint, remember to follow manufacturer guidelines and make use of innovative design features that confi rm the fi tting is secured.
Performance, guaranteed
with the strength of metal, meaning it can be bent with hands alone, making it particularly useful in tight, awkward spaces where bending and shaping are required. Additionally, MLCP pipes are equipped with an inner polythene coating that is resistant to corrosion, making them a durable option for both hot- and cold-water systems.
The ideal combination
Why settle for just one material when you can have the best of both? With the latest innovations in fi ttings, installers can now combine MLCP with plastic for reliable, effi cient and streamlined installations. Both systems are incredibly versatile, and with the use of MLCP, they can transport both hot and cold water while remaining incredibly fl exible for easy installation. This combination is particularly benefi cial in public sector and high-rise residential projects, where varying pipe diameters are often required within the same space. With systems like Wavin’s Tigris available in diameters up to 75mm, installers can seamlessly integrate both systems, to meet project demands while completing work effi ciently and cost eff ectively. The key, though, is making sure they’re installed the right way, so everything works
Whilst you may be eager to get combining the two, there are some key considerations before working with plastic and MLCP in the same system. iI’s crucial that the correct installation tools are used to ensure the product’s guarantee remains in place. This includes using only one manufacturer’s pipes, fi ttings and tools when installing. Ensuring this guarantee leaves both you and your customers confi dent that the system will last, and that manufacturer support is available in the case of any future repairs. Thanks to innovations across the plumbing
fi ttings market, installers are no longer faced with a binary choice when it comes to material and fi ttings. As well as guaranteeing fl exibility and ease at the installation stage, plumbing systems that feature the best benefi ts of materials like plastic and MLCP provide long-term, durable solutions for customers.
30 March 2025
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