What Are The Types Of Plastic Water Pipe & Tubing?

The types of plastic water pipe are categorized by the material used to create them. Ther are three main types of pipes that are used as water pipes:

• PEX: Cross linked Polyethylene
• PVC: Polyvinyl Chloride
• LLDPE: Linear Low density Polyethylene

Before you choose which type of water pipe to purchase, it better to check their properties like temperature sustainable rating, compatibility with chemicals & how much pressure of the fluid will the pipe has to face.

PEX Water Pipes/Tubes

When it comes to hot and cold water, PEX water pipes are preferred as they are made from cross linked Polyethylene that comes with extra strength. PEX pipes/tubes generally have big diameter of around 0.5 inches to 1.5 inches. The size of the pipe is generally based on the internal diameter of the pipe/tube, which is also known as nominal tube size.

Usage

Pex tubes are mostly used when it comes to household plumbing systems, as a lot of people prefer to use hot and cold water for their houses. The complete setup will have PEX tubing from the service mainline on the street to every tap of your household. Each PEX tube is strong enough to be used in a situation where the temperatures are high and no metal exists, as its built in an oxygen free setup.

Sizes of PEX Pipes

Generally, PEX pipes are used in 0.5 inches diameter size. But there are other measurements that can also be made available:

• With an inner diameter of 0.125 inches and an outer diameter of 0.25 inches with a bend radius of 1.5 inches
• With an inner diameter of 0.25 inches and an outer diameter of 0.375 inches with a bend radius of 3 inches
• With an inner diameter of 0.3.75 inches and an outer diameter of 0.5 inches with a bend radius of 4 inches
• With an inner diameter of 0.5 inches and an outer diameter of 0.625 inches with a bend radius of 5 inches
• With an inner diameter of 0.75 inches and an outer diameter of 0.875 inches with a bend radius of 7 inches
• With an inner diameter of 1 inch and an outer diameter of 1.125 inches with a bend radius of 10 inches

Polyehtylene Water Pipes

When it comes to plumbing solutions, polyethylene pipes/tubes are considered one the best as they are known for being able to withstand high temperature and pressure and other environmental stresses. Among others in polyethylene pipes, LLDPE is considered the most common and best. LLDPE pipes stand for linear low density polyehtylene pipes that as the name suggests is best when it comes to being used in low pressure conditions. This type of pipe is best to be used in case of cold water.

Usage

This type of tubing are generally used in a machine that dispenses ice water, water filters and under the sinks where it can flex a little bit to protect from water bumps. These types of tubings are certified by the associations to be used without issues and can be used in places where drinking water is required.

Sizes of LLDPE Water Pipes

Each size of the pipe/tube works in different pressure and temperature:

• With an inner diameter of 0.25 inches and an outer diameter of 0.170 inches with pressure and temperature of 230 psi at 70 degree Celsius respectively
• With an inner diameter of 0.3125 inches and an outer diameter of 0.187 inches with pressure and temperature of 230 psi at 70 degree Celsius respectively
• With an inner diameter of 0.375 inches and an outer diameter of 0.25 inches with pressure and temperature of 230 psi at 70 degree Celsius respectively
• With an inner diameter of 0.5 inches and an outer diameter of 0.375 inches with pressure and temperature of 150 psi at 70 degree Celsius respectively