"Benefits of ProPEX®"
by Jed KoepUponor has been innovating in the plumbing, fire safety, radiant and hydronic distribution industries for decades, enabling customers to increase productivity and profitability on their projects while reducing risk of fire, injuries, leaks, and expensive callbacks.
One such innovation that has helped propel the industry forward is the Uponor ProPEX® ASTM F1960 connection system.
Historically, in any piping system, the connection has been the weakest point of the system. For example, with PEX crimp, clamp, and press connections, the pipe and fittings are first dry fit together. Then, the installer comes back later to complete the connections. Often, these connections get missed, causing the fitting to blow off at a later time, causing costly damage, callbacks, and a ruined reputation.
Another drawback from these “insert” fitting types is the significant reduction of water flow (because the fitting internal diameter is smaller than the pipe). In some instances, the contractor needs to upsize the piping system to account for the loss in flow. Additionally, insert fittings also require specially calibrated tools and gauges to ensure the connection is both secure and undamaged from over-crimping or pressing.
With copper sweat (that uses torches and solder) or CPVC (that uses cements), there is added risk from fire and toxic chemicals on the job site. In fact, according to the National Fire Protection Association, there is an average of more than 4,400 structure fires caused by hot work accidents on the job site each year and more than $287 million in property damage. This not only costs contractors and building owners money, it also increases their risk for injury.
These are just a few of the challenges the Uponor ProPEX connection system has helped professional installers overcome.
ProPEX expansion fittings leverage the thermal and elastic shape memory of Uponor AquaPEX® and Wirsbo hePEX™ pipe to make fast, reliable connections that grow stronger over time.
Making a ProPEX connection is easy. Simply make a straight cut on the end of the pipe, and slide a ProPEX ring onto the end of the pipe. Then, use a ProPEX expansion tool to expand both the pipe and the ring. After a few expansions, remove the tool and insert the fitting. The force of the pipe coming back to its original size and shape makes a solid, secure connection that continues to grow stronger over time.
This connection system eliminates torches, solder, glues, chemicals, and gauges from the job site, and because you have to expand the pipe to insert the fitting, it completely eliminates the risk of dry fits.
ProPEX fittings are designed and manufactured to extremely tight tolerances and the system is even covered by a 25-year transferable limited warranty for added peace of mind.
So, if you’re looking for a PEX connection system that can help improve your productivity, profitability, and safety while also minimizing your risk on the job site, look to Uponor ProPEX. There’s a good reason why it’s the PEX connection method more professionals choose for their plumbing and mechanical piping projects.