All about polypropylene pipe connections, technology and installation

The main features of plastic pipes include lower price and weight, increased service life, and ease of installation. Particularly noteworthy is the ability to connect pipes without soldering or with it, but in a faster way than metal analogues.

Let's figure out what options there are for connecting polypropylene pipes and how to apply various assembly technologies at home.

One way to connect a pipeline Source atyourserviceplumbingcompany.com

Secrets of saving heat

Now it has become known that using an elevator can save heat.
To do this, it is necessary to reduce the temperature in the apartment at night, or during the day, when most of the residents are absent. The disadvantage of such savings is the need to subsequently increase heat consumption to heat an already cooled room. But you sleep much better in a cool room, scientists say. To make savings effective, they began to develop an elevator with an adjustable nozzle. It is also water-jet like its predecessor. It differs not so much in design changes as in the depth of possible adjustment, without losing the high quality of its work.

But technology continues to develop and soon analogues of conventional elevator units will appear, which can be produced fully automatically.

Types of heating elevators

Oddly enough, not even all plumbers servicing multi-story buildings know about heating elevators. At best, they have an idea that this device is installed in the system. But how it works and what function it performs is not known to everyone, not to mention ordinary people.

Therefore, let's eliminate this gap in knowledge about heating systems and examine this device in more detail.

What is a mixing unit

The boiler usually heats water to 80-95°C, this is the optimal temperature for use in radiators. However, according to sanitary standards, the floor temperature should not be more than 30°C.

Exceeding this temperature can lead to an increased release of harmful substances from floor coverings, and in general it will be uncomfortable to walk on such a floor (see article on the dangers of heated floors and laminate).

Considering the thickness of the floor screed and floor covering, the temperature of the coolant in the circuits is not higher than 55°C. That is why water for heated floors is supplied through a mixing unit; it mixes hot liquid with cooler liquid (which has already passed through the system and has had time to cool). The system operation diagram is shown in the video:

System elements

When the hot coolant reaches the collector, it rests against the safety valve. The thermal head detects the temperature of the liquid and if it exceeds the set values, the valve opens slightly and the cold and hot coolant are mixed.

In addition, if the circuits are long, they often make a pumping and mixing unit with their own hands. It is equipped with a circular pump that circulates water through itself and increases the pressure in the system.

In addition to the main elements (two- or three-way valve and pump), the unit also contains additional parts: bypass (jumper), drain and shut-off valves, air vent, expansion tank.

How to tighten fittings for a metal-plastic pipe on a heated floor manifold

How tightly and with what can you tighten the fittings for metal-plastic pipes on the underfloor heating manifold?

I work with metal-plastic with this key,

The “sponges” are thinner and can be spread out easily and quickly to suit any number.

In general, the nut on the fitting depends on the diameter of the pipes.

Most often, for heated floors, a metal-plastic pipe is used, 16 mm, less often 20 mm.

The keys, if we talk about open-end ones, are on the 24th, 27th.

Is the manifold also for metal-plastic pipes?

If the pipes are connected, for example, to a polypropylene manifold,

Again, there are subtleties, do we go through “father” or through “mother”?

You need to know this in order to advise which key is more convenient to work with.

In general, buy the universal one I mentioned above (preferably two), suitable for any pipes, with any fittings.

This key is even convenient for holding the polypropylene manifold on which the metal-plastic fitting will be mounted.

www.remotvet.ru

Types of collectors

The design of the collectors is simple, so it makes sense to differentiate only by the material from which the combs are made and by the method of attaching the pipes. Structurally, they are divided into two groups:

1. Distribution manifold. Designed to distribute liquid from a common channel to end consumers, distributing water into separate channels.
2. Collection (return) manifold. Designed to receive liquid from several channels and send it to a common channel of the system.

Conventionally, collectors are divided according to the number of branches, the presence of shut-off valves, and the sizes of inlet and outlet openings.

These factors will have to be taken into account when choosing. A large number of circuits may require several collectors.

Mounting types

According to the type of fastening of elements, they are distinguished:

1. With solder fittings. This method is often used for polypropylene pipes, less often for cross-linked polyethylene.
2. Euroconus. Suitable for all types of pipes and manifolds.
3. Combined. For example, the inlet hole is threaded, and the outlet holes are made for soldering with polypropylene pipes.

Types of collectors and ease of installation

The most convenient to install combs are made of cross-linked polyethylene. The collector material that is slightly less easy to install is polypropylene.

Installation of a polypropylene manifold and pipes can be done using fittings or welding - this is an effective and reliable method of creating joints, but makes it difficult to change certain sections of the structure. If the pipe is directly welded to the comb, then in the event of a leak at the junction with the manifold, the entire structure will need to be replaced, so it is better to use fittings to connect to the comb.

We recommend that you read: Connecting a modern heating radiator to polypropylene pipes

The tensile strength of polypropylene is high both in elongation and bending. When heated, you can deform the material and make bends, but you need to be careful here. When heated, the strength of the material decreases, which increases the likelihood of damage.

Composition of a collector heating system

A simple collector heating scheme

At the first stage, it is necessary to become familiar with the design principle of autonomous heat supply. The simplest collector heating scheme consists of one distribution unit, to which individual lines of the system are connected.

The composition includes standard components - a boiler, a circulation pump, an expansion tank and a safety group. The collector unit is installed directly next to the boiler and consists of two elements:

• Input. It is connected to the supply pipe from the heating device and distributes the hot coolant along the circuits;
• Day off. Return pipes from individual mains lead to it. Necessary for collecting cooled water and sending it to the boiler for further heating.

Complex manifold groups for heating are equipped with devices for regulating the volume of coolant supply - thermal heads (input) and mechanical limiters at the outlet.

It is best to purchase factory-made manifolds. Since they are designed for certain heating parameters.

Multi-level collector heating

This principle is used to organize heat supply to a one-story private house, where the power of the circulation pump will be sufficient to ensure normal pressure in the pipes. For a two-story building, two collector groups for heating can be installed. One of them will be intended for distribution over individual circuits, and the second will serve as the main component of a warm water floor.

For such a scheme, it is necessary to calculate the parameters of each circuit. Most often there is a need to install the following additional components:

• Circulation pumps for each circuit;
• Mixing unit. Necessary for regulating the temperature of the coolant in the collector. The channel connects the forward and return pipes, and with the help of a control device (two or three-way valve), flows with varying degrees of heating are mixed.

Collector diagram of a two-story house

The traditional collector heating scheme for a two-story house includes distribution units on the first and second levels. But everything depends on the total area of ​​the premises and, as a consequence, on the length of individual highways.

You also need to take into account heat transfer and optimal thermal conditions in each room.

All collectors located in residential premises must be installed in special closed boxes.

Warm floors: using combs

A warm floor is practically no different from a radiator heating system. Water from the heater enters the comb and distributes the coolant through pipes located under the floor.

The manifold for underfloor heating is not only distribution, but also return. One compartment of the collector is responsible for distributing water along the circuits, the second is designed to return the cooled coolant.

From the collecting part of the comb, water flows back into the heater. Typically, it is on the return pipe that the circulation pump is attached. For constant circulation of water, a pump is required that will create the necessary movement of water in the system.

Note! The circulation pump must be designed for the temperature of the coolant, therefore not every device is suitable.

A certain number of pipes are led from the comb under the floor, which allows you to create equal pressure and temperature in different areas of the heated floor. The number of comb outlets depends on the number of heating circuits. The more circuits, the more taps needed.

The pipe is laid evenly around the entire perimeter of the room; the “snake” or “spiral” option is often used.

The standard floor heating scheme looks like this:

1. Heating boiler and expansion tank.
2. Pressure gauge.
3. Distribution manifold.
4. Heated floor pipes.
5. Circulation pump.

The combination of the listed equipment allows for uninterrupted coolant circulation.

From the heating boiler, water flows into the expansion tank and then into the collector, after which the collector distributes the water through the pipes, and the pressure gauge displays the pressure in the system.

Note! Despite the simplicity of the description, the installation of the system is quite complex. It is required to design and accurately select each heating element in advance. The final efficiency will depend on this.

What is it needed for

When installing water pressure systems, there is a rule: the total diameter of all branches should not exceed the diameter of the supply pipe. In relation to heating equipment, this rule looks like this: if the diameter of the boiler outlet fitting is 1 inch, then the system allows two circuits with a pipe diameter of ½ inch. For a small house heated only with radiators, such a system will work effectively.

In fact, there are more heating circuits in a private house or cottage: heated floors. heating of several floors, utility rooms, garage. When they are connected through a tapping system, the pressure in each circuit will be insufficient to effectively heat the radiators, and the temperature in the house will not be comfortable.

Therefore, branched heating systems are made using collector systems; this technique allows you to adjust each circuit separately and set the desired temperature in each room. So, for a garage, plus 10-15ºС is enough, and for a nursery, a temperature of about plus 23-25ºС is required. In addition, heated floors should not heat up more than 35-37 degrees, otherwise it will be unpleasant to walk on them, and the floor covering may become deformed. With the help of a manifold and shut-off temperature, this problem can also be solved.

Video: using a collector system for heating a house.

Manifold groups for heating systems are sold ready-made, and they can have different configurations and the number of outlets. You can select a suitable collector assembly and install it yourself or with the help of specialists.

However, most industrial models are universal and do not always fit the needs of a particular home. Redesigning or modifying them can significantly increase costs. Therefore, in most cases it is easier to assemble it from separate blocks with your own hands, taking into account the characteristics of a particular heating system.

Manifold group for heating system assembly

The design of the universal collector group is shown in the figure. It consists of two blocks for forward and reverse coolant flow, equipped with the required number of outlets. Flow meters are installed on the supply (direct) manifold, and thermal heads are located on the return manifold to regulate the return water temperature in each circuit. With their help, you can set the required coolant flow rate, which will determine the temperature in the heating radiators.

The manifold distribution unit is equipped with a pressure gauge, circulation pump and air valves. The supply and return manifolds are combined into one unit with brackets, which also serve to attach the unit to a wall or cabinet. The price of such a block is from 15 to 20 thousand rubles. and if some of the taps are not used, its installation will be clearly impractical.

The rules for installing the finished block are shown in the video.

Comb - collector unit

The most expensive elements in a manifold distribution block are flow meters and thermal heads. To avoid overpaying for unnecessary elements, you can buy a collector unit, the so-called “comb”, and install the necessary control devices with your own hands only where necessary.

The comb consists of brass tubes with a diameter of 1 or ¾ inches with a certain number of taps with a diameter of ½ inch for heating pipes. They are also connected to each other by a bracket. The outlets on the return manifold are equipped with plugs that allow you to install thermal heads on all or part of the circuits.

Some models may be equipped with taps, with their help you can regulate the flow manually. Such combs have a cast body and are equipped with a fitting/nut thread at the ends, which allows you to quickly and easily assemble a manifold from the required number of branches.

In order to save money, the manifold for heating systems can be assembled from individual elements independently or completely made by hand.

Manifold cabinet for underfloor heating: distribution, vacuum, with hydraulic arrow

Energy-efficient operation of heat supply systems is impossible without including a heating collector in the circuit, which is responsible for the proportional contour distribution of heat flows and the return of cold coolant to the boiler using a circulation pump. This made it possible to replace the linear circuit of powering consumers with an autonomous one, which increases the operational and repair readiness of the network.

Read in the article

What is a heating collector

The device is structurally made in the form of a metal comb, equipped with several “input-output” points, which autonomously connect heating batteries to the in-house coolant.

The purpose of this connection is to adjust and control heating parameters:

• volume of network water;
• network temperatures;
• pressure in the supply and return networks.

The design of the heating unit controls heat transfer and ensures sanitary and hygienic living standards in the premises.

Important! To install heating in two-story buildings, the unit is mounted on each floor, thus implementing a high-quality heat supply scheme with floor-by-floor regulation.

Operating principle of the heating manifold

The distributor has a simple operating principle, which consists of several stages:

1. Water, heated in the boiler unit to operating temperature, enters the supply part of the manifold, where the speed of the medium slows down due to the increased diameter of the comb, so the liquid flows evenly through all branches, with the same pressure at the branch points, supported by valves or shut-off and control valves.
2. Each node is connected to a supply pipe circuit, creating equal heating opportunities for the radiators in the system, which is especially important at low outside temperatures.
3. The coolant through the batteries gives off heat to the internal air in the room and, when cooled, enters a separate lower part of the heating manifold, where it is collected from the return circuits.
4. The circulation pump directs the cooled liquid into the boiler for the next heating-cooling cycle.

Note! The number of outlet pipes in a group of collectors varies, and the device can also be equipped with additional branches.

Main types of heating collectors

Combs differ from each other in three respects:

• placement location - wall-mounted or floor-mounted;
• number of heating circuits;
• control elements: valves, valves, pumps, sensors.

The Russian market presents various types of nodes:

• for water coolant of a multi-storey building;
• distribution boiler system;
• for solar systems;
• for 2/3/4 contour units;
• vacuum geocollector;
• knot with hydraulic arrow.

Distribution radiator type is used for conventional radiators. It is made of 2 interconnected parts for supply and return. Connection diagrams for the distribution manifold for heating depend on the design features of the heated objects. There are wiring diagrams:

• top type;
• bottom type;
• side;
• diagonal.

The lower one is the most popular, since with such a harness the system is hidden under the floor, so it does not interfere with users.

Note! In addition, calculations show the high energy efficiency of such a connection due to reduced losses.

An example of a manifold connection scheme is a water heated floor, where the distribution unit uniformly supplies the coolant to all network rings. Such heating systems are equipped with a circulation pump; the number of groups is selected from the ratio - 1 point per 120 m of pipeline.

The vacuum type belongs to classic solar systems and operates on the principle of a conventional water heater. There are two types of devices that differ in the organization of heating and storage of coolant:

1. “Wet tube” - a tank for collecting hot water is combined with a comb.
2. U-type - the container does not have a direct connection to the distribution unit, so it is not limited by size.

Operating principle of the vacuum device:

1. Under the influence of direct sunlight, the process of thermal absorption and heat transfer to the copper core occurs.
2. The water, heating up, rises to the top of the device.
3. The hot coolant, having transferred its energy to the external circuit, cools and returns to the copper tube.

A collector heating system with a hydraulic arrow is used in the design of residential buildings with a large heated area on several levels. It is made in the form of a vertical hollow pipe, with elliptical-shaped plugs to equalize the coolant pressure. This design solves several problems simultaneously, the main one of which is the stabilization of sudden temperature changes in pipes, which increases the service life of the system.

Note! Optimal heating operation with a hydraulic arrow is ensured if each circuit is equipped with an independent circulation pump.

Solar type for solar systems using the greenhouse effect. Water circulation occurs due to convection. To absorb sunlight, a distributor is installed in the circuit. To accumulate heat, it is made in the form of a flat box treated with black adsorbent coating. Heat energy is transferred to the network fluid circulating through the pipes, which is used as water or antifreeze.

The water collector has a very wide application, both in cold and hot water supply systems, and for heating apartments. The upper part of the unit for the water supply network is equipped with flow meters that balance the heating circuits.

The lower one for the return line is equipped with valve taps that perform additional fine-tuning of the system used during repair work. For 4-circuit systems, the device is equipped with a mixing unit, adjusting ball valves, a Mayevsky valve and a drain valve.

2/3/4 circuit units are most popular for connecting 2, 3 and 4 heating circuits, which is sufficient for small private houses.

Collectors characteristics:

• Brass distribution device with internal thread.
• Areas of application: hot water supply, heating using underfloor heating, connecting pump groups.
• Permissible temperature is 120.0 C.
• Working pressure - 25.0 bar.

Overview of the main manufacturers of heating collectors

Rehau, a leader in the heat supply systems market, produces combs for underfloor heating systems made from Ms 63 brass:

• HKV, for 2-12 circuits.
• HKV-D, similar to HKV, additionally equipped with flow meters and taps on the supply pipeline, and a control valve on the return line.

The Rehau heating collector is designed for a maximum operating temperature of 80 C and a medium pressure of 6 bar. What distinguishes it from other brands is that it is equipped with soundproof galvanized brackets.

Oventrop sells on the market a comb for underfloor heating, made of tool steel, maximum environmental parameters: pressure - 6 bar, temperature - 70 C. Air vents are located on it, the connection of pipelines to the batteries is made with a G3/4 thread, both right and and left connection.

The Valtec company produces manifolds for heating radiators and floor-mounted versions. The supply part of the distribution unit is equipped with a flow meter and an end tube with a float device for releasing air from the network with a shut-off valve and a drain valve.

Coolant parameters:

• supply temperature - 90 C;
• maximum pressure - 8 bar;
• line filling speed is 2.5 m3/h.

Millennium collector groups are made of stainless steel and equipped with thermostatic valves to regulate the heating process. Collector heating coolant parameters:

• Pressure - 10 bar.
• Maximum temperature - 100 C.
• The presence of integrated valves determines a wide range of applications for devices: with mixing units, electrothermal actuators and sensors.

Note! It is noteworthy that the design allows air vents to be installed on any side of the manifold.

DIY installation of a heating manifold made of polypropylene

Before creating a switchgear, a design calculation is carried out that corresponds to the design conditions and helps to choose the right equipment and materials.

To install a polypropylene heated floor collector with your own hands, use reinforced polypropylene components, possibly fiberglass, which does not undergo delamination.

Necessary materials:

• pipes of the required size;
• one plug for each group;
• couplings and tees according to the diagram;
• ball valves by number of circuits;
• soldering iron for plastic.

Sequencing:

1. The location for the block is chosen according to the project. They make a manifold cabinet for heating in the form of a special niche or purchase a ready-made housing from a retail chain and attach it to the wall.
2. Use a soldering iron to complete the workpiece according to the drawing.
3. Place the parts in the nozzles, after maintaining the soldering mode, connect the pipe and the coupling, allow it to cool, otherwise the joint will delaminate.
4. The tees are connected first.
5. When feeding from below, a plug is attached on one side and a corner on the other.
6. The sections are welded on the bends, then valves and other devices are installed on them according to the diagram.
7. Perform water pressure testing of the system with a pressure of 1.5 times the operating pressure and check the integrity of the seams.
8. After eliminating leaks, connect the unit to the direct and return coolant.

User reviews about heating collectors

Many users who have experienced the work of debt collectors are happy to share their reviews on the Internet.

Victor, Nizhny Novgorod: “Rehau - the system meets European requirements, the only “but” is that you need to take a responsible approach to choosing the size and installing the comb.”

Andrey, Magnitogorsk: “Millennium is a good, high-strength, reliable steel structure, easy to set up in automatic mode.”

Leonid, Perm: “Italian Valtec comb, assembly place China, the price is much lower than that of Rehau, the polypropylene model is especially trustworthy - scale does not form on the walls and a decent warranty period of 7 years. Disadvantage: if the permitted pressure is exceeded, the taps may burst.”

Note! A good heating system collector is one of the most expensive elements of an individual heating supply scheme, so more and more buyers are installing a device for their home system.

In this case, the efficiency and safety of the system increases significantly, in addition, it allows you to fully automate the operation of in-house heating, maintaining the required sanitary conditions in the room, practically without human intervention.

www.tproekt.com

How does an elevator work?

In simple terms, an elevator in a heating system is a water pump that does not require external energy. Thanks to this, and even its simple design and low cost, the element found its place in almost all heating points that were built in Soviet times. But for its reliable operation certain conditions are required, as will be discussed below.

To understand the structure of the heating system elevator, you should study the diagram presented in the figure above. The unit is somewhat reminiscent of a regular tee and is installed on the supply pipeline; with its side outlet it is connected to the return line. Only through a simple tee would water from the network pass directly into the return pipeline and directly into the heating system without reducing the temperature, which is unacceptable.

A standard elevator consists of a supply pipe (pre-chamber) with a built-in nozzle of the calculated diameter and a mixing chamber into which cooled coolant is supplied from the return. At the outlet of the assembly, the pipe expands, forming a diffuser. The unit operates as follows:

• coolant from the high-temperature network is directed to the nozzle;
• when passing through a hole of small diameter, the flow speed increases, which is why a rarefaction zone appears behind the nozzle;
• vacuum causes water to be sucked in from the return pipeline;
• the flows are mixed in the chamber and exit into the heating system through a diffuser.

How the described process occurs is clearly shown by the diagram of the elevator unit, where all flows are marked in different colors:

An indispensable condition for stable operation of the unit is that the pressure difference between the supply and return lines of the heating network is greater than the hydraulic resistance of the heating system.

Along with obvious advantages, this mixing unit has one significant drawback. The fact is that the operating principle of the heating elevator does not allow regulating the temperature of the mixture at the outlet. After all, what is needed for this? If necessary, change the amount of superheated coolant from the network and sucked water from the return. For example, in order to reduce the temperature, it is necessary to reduce the supply flow and increase the flow of coolant through the jumper. This can only be achieved by reducing the nozzle diameter, which is impossible.

Electric elevators help solve the problem of quality regulation. In them, by means of a mechanical drive rotated by an electric motor, the diameter of the nozzle increases or decreases. This is achieved through a cone-shaped throttle needle that enters the nozzle from the inside at a certain distance. Below is a diagram of a heating elevator with the ability to control the temperature of the mixture:

1 – nozzle; 2 – throttle needle; 3 – actuator housing with guides; 4 – shaft with gear drive.

The adjustable heating elevator, which appeared relatively recently, allows for the modernization of heating points without a radical replacement of equipment. Considering how many other similar units operate in the CIS, such units are becoming increasingly relevant.

Heating circuit elements

Modern heating, which uses heating collectors, involves the creation of a large structure, which includes the following main elements:

1. Source of thermal energy
   . It is the first starting point from which the heated coolant is directed into pipelines and heating radiators. The power of heating units must be calculated as accurately as possible so that the equipment functions in accordance with its intended purpose.

The process of choosing a boiler and calculating its parameters is a very important point when creating a heating structure. An underestimated power indicator will not allow the circuit to work fully, as a result of which the rooms will not be warm enough. An overestimated value of the required heat transfer will lead to excessive fuel consumption, which will require the installation of control elements and, accordingly, additional financial costs;

Circulation pump

. A closed heating circuit with a comb requires forced circulation of the coolant. To do this, install circulation pumps in the heating system. thanks to which the necessary pressure is created to move the heated liquid, an optimal temperature is ensured, guaranteeing high-quality work.

When choosing a circulation pump, according to the instructions, a number of parameters are taken into account. The motor power of the circulation device is not one of the main indicators; it just determines the amount of energy consumed by the motor

Attention should be paid to the speed and volume of pumped liquid per unit of time

Pumps must be selected very carefully. The fact is that to ensure high-quality heating, it is necessary to select it with a power reserve that exceeds the design parameters by about 10 percent, since property owners often add a heating area without replacing the circulation device.

Cabinets

. This type of heating structure requires hiding its components, such as a do-it-yourself heating manifold, pipelines, ball valves, in drawers or cabinets specially equipped for this. They are either fixed outside or built into the walls.

Radial scheme and heated floor

The radial scheme allows you to combine a homemade heating collector and a “warm floor” system. But this design has a number of features.

Before you begin to create it, you need to familiarize yourself with them:

• the heating manifold must be installed on the condition that it is equipped with control valves and thermostatic valves on absolutely all circuits;
• When laying pipes for a “warm floor” heating system, electrothermal drives and thermostatic heads are certainly used. Thanks to these devices, “warm floors” will be able to quickly respond to changes in temperature and maintain the necessary microclimate in each room;
• The option for arranging a distribution system can be different - standard (made according to a standard scheme) and individual. The last method deserves special attention. In this case, the boiler operates in normal mode without significant temperature changes, and fuel is consumed economically.

Features and purpose

The collector is an important part of the water supply system in an apartment or private house. It performs an important function - it stabilizes the pressure in equipment that consumes water and, in fact, delivers it from the source to the consumer.

This could be, for example, a faucet or a toilet in an apartment. We can give a simple example, known to many. When someone is taking a shower, the water in the kitchen should not be turned on as this will cause a temperature change.

That is, a person in the bathroom can be scalded by hot water or cooled by cold water, depending on which kitchen tap was opened. If the apartment has a collector, such problems will not arise.

If a collector is installed in the heating system, the liquid is first supplied to the batteries through this device. The water pipeline works in a similar way: the central branch goes into one collector, and is not divided into a large number of branches.

Each branch has a shut-off valve

Next, we will consider in more detail the options, how the solution can be implemented, what installation rules exist and the very purpose of the collector in the apartment.

Classic wiring diagram

Any water supply system (household or apartment) is designed to supply water from the source to the consumer. And if there is only one consumer, the scheme is clear, but what if there are several of them?

Then, previously, they did it simply by inserting a T-shaped splitter into the pipe. The next consumer was connected to one outlet, and the water-consuming device was connected to the other.

This solution is quite widely used today in water supply systems for houses and apartments. After all, it has important advantages over others: simplicity of design, accessibility and short length of pipes.

But this approach also has disadvantages:

• difficult repairs - to carry out the procedure for one consumer, it is necessary to turn off the entire system;
• if several consumers are disconnected, the pressure in the system decreases significantly: the further “along the pipe” from the source, the worse the indicator. In such a situation, the closest consumer will actually be in a privileged position. An example of simultaneous water consumption in the bathroom and kitchen was given above.

Installation parameters of pipes and fittings

In the selection of polypropylene pipes and adapters to match the technical design of the building, simple physical principles are used.

The dimensions of fittings for polypropylene pipes in mm can be selected depending on the diameter of the polypropylene pipes, their thickness, and resistance to temperature influences.

For a home where there is free space and the mechanical strength of pipelines is important, elements with a thickness of 16 mm or more are laid. This takes into account the difference between the internal and external diameters of the products. The thickness of the pipes and fittings will compensate for the missing characteristics.

The first among the installation parameters is the operating pressure, indicated by the PN marking.

In this case, you should not focus only on the wall thickness parameters. If there is reinforcement (fiberglass), the outer diameter of the pipes increases.

Selecting fittings for polypropylene pipes by size is not so difficult, you just need to find tables of recommended adapters and their diameters.

Before installing pipes at home without a soldering iron, you need to select the sizes of fittings and couplings in mm or inches Source image.isu.pub

Features of the radial scheme of heating collectors

The design of a heating manifold made of polypropylene, which is shown in the photo, can be considered optimal in the case where the house has several floors or the building has a large number of rooms and utility rooms.

Thus, the connection diagram for the heating collector implies that it will be installed on each floor (sometimes there may be several of them), and pipes will be laid from it. As a rule, the instructions stipulate that the installation of heating system elements is carried out in walls or cement screed.

The design of the heating structure and its branches should be drawn up before starting repair work, so as not to damage the base for laying the floor covering later.

The principle of operation of the elevator

The principle of operation of the elevator

The elevator unit is a fairly large container, somewhat similar to a pot. But this is not the elevator itself, although it is called that. This is a whole unit, which also includes:

• Dirt traps - after all, the water coming from the pipe is not entirely clean.
• Magnetic mesh filters - the unit must ensure a certain purity of the coolant so that batteries and pipes do not become clogged.

Having been purified, the hot water flows through the nozzle into the mixing chamber. Here it moves at high speed, as a result of which water is sucked in from the return circuit, which is connected to the mixing chamber on the side. The process of suction, or injection, occurs spontaneously. It is now clear that by changing the diameter of the nozzle, you can regulate both the volume of coolant supplied and its temperature at the exit from the elevator.

As you understand, for a heating system, an elevator is a pump and a mixer at the same time

And what is important - no electricity

There is one more point that experts pay attention to - this is the ratio of the pressure inside the supply pipeline and the resistance of the elevator. This ratio should be 7:1. Only this ratio ensures the efficiency of the entire system.

But that's not all there is to efficiency.

Pay attention to the fact that the pressure inside the system - and this is the supply and return circuits - must be the same. It is acceptable if it is a little less in the return

But if the difference is significant, for example, in the supply pipeline it is 5.0 kgf/cm2, and in the return pipeline it is below 4.3 kgf/cm2, this means that the pipeline system and heating devices are clogged with dirt.

Connection diagram for an adjustable water-jet elevator

Another possible reason is that during a major overhaul the pipe diameters were changed downward. That is, the contractor saved money in this way.

Is it possible to regulate the temperature of the coolant? It is possible, and for this it is better to use an adjustable water-jet type elevator.

The design of such a device includes a nozzle, the diameter of which can be changed. Sometimes the adjustment range, and this applies more to foreign analogues, is quite large, which is not so necessary. Domestic elevators have a smaller range shift, but, as practice has shown, this is enough for all occasions.

True, adjustable elevators are rarely installed in residential buildings. Their installation in public or industrial premises is much more effective. With their help, you can save up to 25% on heating costs just because they allow you to reduce the temperature at night, as well as on weekends and holidays.

Differences in fittings depending on the material and design used

There are more than 30 types of fittings based on form factor. But in addition to differences in purpose, elements are divided according to their suitability for a particular type of polypropylene pipe.

There are fittings consisting only of polypropylene, and those combined in the design using metal. What is their difference and purpose, we will consider below.

Full polypropylene fittings

Fittings made exclusively from polypropylene are more affordable because they consist of the same material as the pipe itself, and they are manufactured only by casting.

Polypropylene fitting.

An electric pipe soldering iron is used to connect different sections of pipe with fittings. It can be xiphoid or cylindrical. The working part contains places for installing couplings. The control is carried out by a thermostat. The two end parts of the polypropylene fitting are mounted on couplings corresponding to their diameter. The latter are coated with Teflon to prevent the plastic from sticking.

Soldering of polypropylene pipes.

The tool heats up to 260 degrees, which softens the polypropylene. After this, you need to remove the plastic parts from the soldering iron and carefully connect them together by inserting the pipe into the fitting. Due to strong heating, the materials are mixed and a new single crystal lattice is formed.

Soldered fitting in section.

The joint is similar in density and tightness to the pipe itself. The service life of the connection reaches 50 years.

The following technology is used for soldering polypropylene fittings to create:

• pneumatic lines;
• DHW systems;
• heat supply and heating circuits;
• HVS systems;
• technological communications in production.

The connection method is cheap and reliable. It can be covered with building materials after crimping and not controlled. With proper soldering, there are no leaks.

Almost all types of fittings are produced from pure polypropylene (adapters from one diameter to another, tees, angles, manifolds), so the entire system can be soldered exclusively with them.

The only drawback of such elements is the inability to disassemble the connection. If you need to organize an additional water collection point or install another heating radiator, the pipe will have to be cut and soldered in new parts.

Combination fittings

Such fittings are made partly of polypropylene and partly of metal. The steel inserts are cast separately in their dies and then pressed into plastic. Fittings with metal inserts are necessary for connecting polypropylene to metal pipes, taps, etc. Such fittings are more expensive because production is more complex.

Combined fitting.

The steel part is accompanied by carvings. The pitch and diameter fully comply with the standards used on metal pipes. But such connections cannot be closed completely (tightly) - they may leak and require repair. Placement behind false panels made of lathing and tiles or plasterboard is allowed.

There are several types of combination fittings:

• American connection;
• Crimp connection.

American connection

A special type of combined fitting, consisting of a polypropylene coupling for soldering on one side and a union nut on the other. There is a thread inside the nut to tighten the connection. The tightness of the joint is ensured by an internal stop and an o-ring.

They come into contact with the mating part and are securely connected without additional winding with foam or tow. The element is used to bind the polypropylene system to metal pipes.

Fitting with American connection.

The advantage of such a fitting is the possibility of easy installation. The plastic remains in place, and only the union nut rotates. This makes it easier to connect in hard-to-reach places. A fitting with such a connection can be used on a straight, tee or corner element.

Thanks to such devices, it is easy to attach a boiler, circulation pump, boiler, geyser, etc. to polypropylene pipes. In case of equipment repair, the connection can be quickly disassembled using one open-end wrench.

If, due to frequent assembly and disassembly, the unit loses its tightness, it is enough to replace the rubber seal. American ones are also used to connect to the risers for supplying hot water and cold water, after which the wiring throughout the apartment is made of polypropylene.

Crimp connection

This fitting is made of stainless steel or brass. Inside there is a metal tube onto which the polypropylene part is attached. A crimp ring is placed on top, tightened with a compression nut. The seal is ensured by rubber O-rings inside.

Polypropylene compression fitting.

The kit is sold ready-made - there is no need to search for the component parts separately. The connection can be re-disassembled and reassembled. It is impossible to close the joint tightly, since leaks are possible when the pressure increases and monitoring is necessary.

Pipe selection

Before starting work directly related to the creation of a heat supply system, it is necessary to coordinate the main parameters of the pipelines. First of all, the source of thermal energy, the inlets and outlets to the collector, as well as the pipeline must be of the same diameter. Otherwise, when using pipes of different diameters, adapters are used. Their installation requires additional material costs and time for installation.

The supply and return pipes through which the coolant liquid moves are made from different materials, but experts recommend using polypropylene pipes (for more details: “Do-it-yourself installation of a heating system from polypropylene pipes”).

Their advantage lies in their availability, practicality and ease of use during installation work. The selection of polypropylene pipes should be carried out on the basis of hydraulic calculations.

Failure to comply with the required diameters for pipes leads to such negative consequences as:

• violation of coolant circulation;
• airing of the heating circuit;
• uneven heating.

Mechanical joining method without soldering: connection options

Soldering as a method of joining pipeline sections is more often used during installation supervision in production. In everyday life, the most popular technologies are express installation without welding.

The time-tested practice of joining without the use of special tools ensures high quality joints of plastic pipes without soldering using couplings.

The widely known method is based on the use of shaped parts. With their help, you can not only ensure the continuation of the water supply circuit, but also change its direction, distribute the working medium or block the flow.

Advantages of installation technology without heating:

• Finished polypropylene products are cheaper to connect using this method than metal ones due to the low cost of fittings.

Connections of plastic pipes without soldering using couplings Source stroy-podskazka.ru

• The design of the fittings makes it possible to manually assemble a complete engineering system of drainage, water supply, and sewerage.

The size and technical capabilities of parts are determined by their configuration (shape, wall thickness, combination).

Connection using compression fittings

When choosing how to connect plastic pipes for water supply without soldering, many people often use the compression fitting method. With this connection method, the process of heating adjacent parts is eliminated. A special coupling, under mechanical action (crimping), reliably fixes the two ends of the tubes equipped with o-rings inside. After installing the adapter, the joints are lubricated with silicone sealant.

Switching from metal-plastic to polypropylene using fittings is an indispensable way to join pipes made of different materials.

The advantages of this method:

• a minimum set of tools is used for installation;
• Even a beginner can trust the pipeline connection;

An example of lubricant used when installing polypropylene pipes Source construct.smazka.ru

• a reliable connection is created at the installation site of the compression fitting;

This method, first of all, is good because it can be used when updating cast-iron water pipes with polypropylene analogues. This method is also in demand when assembling heating systems, including the installation of radiators.

Connection using adhesives

Among the docking options that make it possible to do without special equipment is the use of assembly adhesives.

The base composition of the adhesive is polyvinyl chloride mixed with a solvent. Manufacturers also add various additives and plasticizers to it to improve adhesion at joints.

Advantages of the method:

• joining products using an adhesive provides the assembled structure with the necessary characteristics of strength and tightness;
• upon completion of work, a reliable connection is formed at the installation site, invisible during visual inspection;
• No special skills are required for docking.

Important ! During work, safety precautions should be observed, do not work near open sources of fire and avoid contact of the composition with the skin.

Fitting polypropylene pipes before gluing Source www.asvshop.com
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in engineering communications.

How to install with glue

Before connecting polypropylene pipes, you need to prepare the necessary parts, tools and provide conditions for installation work.

The surfaces on which the adhesive composition will be applied should be treated with a degreaser. To apply the composition, a brush with bristles made from natural materials is suitable. It is also recommended to ensure the room temperature ranges from 5 to 35 degrees.

Considering that the pipeline parts will be joined with a minimum gap, a thin layer of glue will be sufficient. Holding the pipes until they set usually does not exceed 20-30 seconds. Upon completion of work, it is recommended to ventilate the room well, while drafts should be avoided.

Polypropylene pipes manifold Far

Hello dear forum users! Sorry if I'm raising a question that has already been discussed.

New multi-apartment building, polypropylene risers, they decided to make the wiring also with polypropylene (diameter 20). I would like to install Far manifolds. After a long study of forum topics and product range, my head is a mess. We are interested in adjustable collectors 3/4″ 1/2″ outlets (3 - DHW and 2+3 - cold water outlets). As it turned out, the bends come with metric threads and pipe threads; pipe threads are divided into Eurocone and Flat-Faced. Flat-Faced, as I understand it, is ideal for me, but it’s not possible to find them in Rostov (it’s probably too late to order).

Explain what is better to take with TR or MR. As far as I understand, the MR leads are attached via an MR-TR adapter, and on the TR there is already a fitting adapter for soldering polypropylene. With TR, you can straight away fit the fitting, but there are sharp edges that can cut through the gasket.

This is such a mess. Don't throw stones at me, I don't know anything about plumbing.

Those who do the repairs have never done the wiring with the collector, so they made the choice themselves. Today it was proposed to make a prefabricated manifold from polypropylene tees (in one place, the distance between the terminals is minimal, as in a regular manifold (not enough space), i.e., it looks like a regular manifold), and hang taps on the bends. In this regard, more questions have arisen:

1. How much less (or more?) reliable will such a collector be?
2. Tees are not reinforced, how bad is that? (reinforced pipes)
3. The taps on the bends (also made of polypropylene) as far as I understand are ball valves, i.e. Can't regulate? only close - open? Are polypropylene faucets adjustable?

I'm leaning towards Far collectors, but if the connections on the taps are a weak point, maybe a prefabricated one would be better?

www.mastergrad.com

Manifold assembly – Good-natured Plumber

I have already written about why a collector is needed. I also wrote about Eurocones, which are used in conjunction with collectors.

In this material I will briefly talk about assembling a manifold for polypropylene pipes using an American detachable connection.

This is what the assembled product looks like:

We take the American one and put the part with the union nut aside. We need to screw the second part onto the collector. Seal the manifold thread:

We bait the main part of the American woman:

And then tighten it with a key. This can be an open-end or adjustable wrench. But it’s still more convenient to do this with a socket wrench or a head:

We do the same with the remaining taps:

If the product will be in a visible place, then it would be correct to make all connections clean. For example, like here, these joints are sealed with flax, but the flax is not visible:

Before soldering the American ones, do not forget to make sure that the union nut is positioned correctly.

Before tightening the cap, you need to install a flat gasket, which is included in the American kit. So, this same gasket is different on both sides. On one side it seems to be oiled, and on the other it is dry. I usually put the oiled side on polypropylene, and the dry side on metal. Thus, when tightening the union nut, the polypropylene connection does not “twist”

dretun.ru