PHAM NEWS | JULY/AUGUST 2025 32 Pipes, Fittings& Valves


Considering materials, connections and sizing


Growing demand for commercial projects has led to further scrutiny on all building services, with a drive for faster, more effi cient installations with assured, long-lasting performance. Rehau’s Steve Richmond looks at the implications for plumbing system specifi cation, including the use of new technologies, innovations and materials.


F


or the ever-evolving world of commercial plumbing, effi ciency and reliability are paramount and all


aspects of the pipework system must be considered and evaluated to achieve this. Importantly, to ensure best possible performance and installation practice, this includes reducing or excluding all potential weak points from the plant room to the tap. Of these potential weak points, pipe connections should come under the most scrutiny. Though extremely simple in


design, the O-ring’s ability to create a leak-proof seal between pipes and other components can be impaired under the more dynamic workloads associated with commercial and multi- residential buildings. The exposure to high temperatures, high compression and other stresses results in a loss of elasticity and the inability to return to its original shape, making it unable to seal properly. Aside from the practical


drawbacks associated with repairing compromised pipework, potential failures may also lead to reputational damage for plumbers, contractors and installers. Given these risks, it is advisable that project stakeholders look at alternative solutions wherever possible.


Industry shift This rethink of long-accepted installation and specifi cation practices has led to greater scrutiny of pipework material types. Where previously copper pipework was selected as standard for plumbing systems on commercial and multi- residential projects, increased construction demand has shifted industry thinking. With the new government announcing plans to construct 1.5 million homes and overhaul planning rules to accelerate infrastructure projects, the need for fi t-and- forget, high-performance pipework is greater than ever. Consequently, alternative


solutions that reduce the number of potential weak points in plumbing systems have grown in popularity. Made from polymer, these types of pipework use the pipe as the sealant, meaning


process. Compliance with ecological, social and economic requirements around building lifecycles means commercial project stakeholders must analyse more aspects of a potential system before selection. This opening up of the specifi cation process may make alternative materials more appealing than traditional options such as copper.


Steve Richmond Sales & marketing director for Rehau


any installation can withstand pressure loads immediately, and can be certifi ed as leak-free through simple visual inspection. This has the additional benefi t of high corrosion resistance properties, and improved fl ow rates due to no reduction in internal bore through fi ttings. Additionally, the pricing


volatility associated with traditional pipework materials may make more stable options such as polymer more attractive fi nancially, especially when considering the economies of scale associated with larger projects. Growing use of criteria for building certifi cations such as BREEAM have also further infl uenced the material consideration


Practical fi tting Alongside system performance, practicality must be a key consideration when selecting plumbing systems for commercial projects. Projected increases in demand for construction projects means quicker and easier installation is a major priority. Lighter materials that are easier to handle on site have therefore grown in popularity, while heavier and more rigid metal pipework can be perceived as impractical. The importance of more


manoeuvrable, less heavy and easy-to-fi t pipework cannot be overlooked in the context of commercial projects. A key benefi t of polymer pipework is the use of matching fi ttings and compression sleeves that can be installed with simple, suitable tools – an obvious practical benefi t when working alongside multiple other contractors and teams in cramped construction environments. This reduction in time spent


on-site is also mirrored in the off -site pre-fabrication


process. As polymer pipework is cut, assembled and welded in accordance with bespoke specifi cations, potential disruption and time spent on-site can be reduced further still. Alongside realising time and cost savings, this fabrication process enables more consistent product quality. When taken alongside their end-to-end -ring- free design, it is clear polymer plumbing systems can provide a stronger guarantee of ongoing performance than those made of traditional materials.


Ready for risers A traditional drawback when using polymer plumbing systems in commercial projects has been the lack of larger pipework sizes required for risers and corridors. Given the installation and hygiene strengths of alternative pipe materials, it is unsurprising


that contractor and specifi er demand for appropriately sized solutions has grown. In response to this, polymer


solutions suppliers such as Rehau have sought to expand their ranges to include PP-R fi ber riser systems available in sizes up to 125mm. As risers in this material are built to include a socket welding design, installation is also faster than manipulative or threaded options. Furthermore, the ability to integrate risers into prefabricated structures means building services professionals can better meet an anticipated rise in construction demand expected under the new government. The development of polymer


pipework systems marks a signifi cant advancement in commercial plumbing technology. By providing a complete O-ring-free solution that is hygienic, quick to install and available in larger sizes, suppliers are addressing key challenges faced by plumbing professionals. Integrated with prefabrication methods, risers and innovative installation technologies, these systems’ reliability and effi ciency are readily apparent. For commercial project


PP-R Fiber pipework up to 125mm for risers and corridors, part of Rehau’s O-ring free polymer plumbing system


stakeholders, the benefi ts are clear – reduced maintenance, faster installations and a robust, long- lasting plumbing solution. As the demand for effi cient and reliable plumbing systems continues to rise, these innovations will play a role in shaping the future of the industry. ◼ phamnews.co.uk/725/60


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