October 2012 Tube Products International
55
plast ic pipes
The rise of plastic
As part of a debate that has been
raging since the 1970s, there has
been a constant comparison between
traditional copper pipe systems and the
more modern plastic varieties available
in the market.
Earlier, plastic played the role of the
under-dog: overlooked by the average
plumber as being a cheap substance
that doesn’t last very long, a substance
unworthy of being considered a high-
grade pipe and fittings material.
However, superior engineering and
advancements in plastic push-fit have
since made their mark on the pipe
systems world.
This article seeks to redress that problem
by answering a number of oft-attempted
questions: which system offers more
benefits; which one is more profitable
in the long run; which one is easier to
use? In short: which one is better? Are
plastic pipe systems really the future, or
do traditional copper systems still fit the
bill better?
To begin the evaluation, a topic that
is foremost on peoples’ mind post-
recession is ‘costs’. A comparison of
straight lengths of both copper and
plastic tubing yielded surprising results:
the recent rise in metal prices has led
to an explosion in metal fitting and pipe
costs with 15mm diameter copper tubing
priced at £2.53 per metre. In comparison,
a length of plastic pipe of the same
dimensions costs £1.41 per metre.
The installation process (and its ease)
is the next subject under scrutiny: how
simple and flexible are the pipes and
fittings to use and how quickly and
effortlessly can they be installed to form
a complete and efficient system? Time
is money, and time savings are money
savings. Plastic push-fit systems have
been proven to reduce installation time
by up to 40 per cent compared to
copper. Quicker connections mean faster
installations. This observation is fast
removing the misconceptions previously
associated with plastic systems.
Copper, which was the material of choice
in the past, is now almost obsolete in new
build houses, except for gas lines. The
reason for this is simple: contemporary
plastic pipes allow for more flexibility
in use. They can be threaded through
all kinds of joists as opposed to only
traditional solid ones and can easily be
manipulated around obstacles. Newer
push-fit systems, like Speedfit, have
been engineered such that they are light
and can fit more easily into smaller,
more confined spaces like the inside of
a home. This also allows for concealed
plumbing. Copper pipe, however, does
not afford the installer the convenience
of reaching less accessible areas; it is
not as malleable as plastic and requires
notching of joists, which is not possible
with new generational composite joists.
Unlike pipe systems that use traditional
materials, plastic pipe systems can be
fitted into conduits enabling them to be
easily withdrawn as well, keeping in line
with building regulations. Rigid copper
systems require continuous access.
With respect to tools, plastic systems
offer benefits. Nigel Sanger, technical
manager at Speedfit, said, “The systems
are truly demountable, which reduces
the need for tools and completely
eliminates the need for chemicals and
blowtorches.” This effectively removes
the risk of chemical hazards and fires.
When it comes to systems set up,
the installer’s health and safety is of
primary importance. The use of flux
while installing copper pipes can have
detrimental effects on a plumber’s
health: the fumes are dangerous when
inhaled and proper safety equipment
includes gloves and breathing
apparatus. Plastic eliminates this risk of
chemical exposure and the requirement
for additional protection. It is lead-free,
which adds to its non-toxic profile.
Mr Sanger commented, “Electrocution
hazards are also greatly reduced with
plastic because unlike copper, plastic is
a non-conductor.”
One of the main worries whilst choosing
a pipe system material is “How long is it
going to last?” This is a valid concern, and
one that plastic has overcome. Plastic
push-fit systems have paved the way
towards a corrosion-free, build-up-free
and burst averse future for all installers.
This means lower replacement rates and
hardly any wear and tear during the
system’s lifespan. Earlier misconceptions
led installers to believe that plastic does
not last. However, due to its smooth
internal bore, limescale accumulation is
minimised, while the inherent elasticity in
plastic allows for thermal expansion. This
leads to fewer fractures and a curbing of
subsequent leakages.
John Guest Ltd
– UK
Production of plastic
extruded tubing
Russell Plastics’ extensive range of both standard and specialist tubes
is ever increasing. Of special interest is the company’s ability to produce
‘micro bore’ tubes.
Tube profiles with more than one lumen are regularly produced – down
to 0.65mm inside diameter. Raw materials processed range from silicone
rubber to water soluble specialist polymers. The more ‘normal’ hard
polymers are processed into tube products.
The range of existing sizes is from 0.65 to 126mm, though not in all
materials. Different wall thicknesses are possible, which can increase or
decrease the pressure the tube can take. The products are supplied either
as coils or cut to required lengths during manufacture.
Russell Plastics
– UK
