manual

pexPlus®

Contents2

3-678

8-1112

13-1617-1819-25

Overview

Pipe

Fittings

Features & benefits

Installation considerations

Tools & terminology

Jointing instructions

FAQ

Pex fitting range

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pexPlus®

OverviewThe Pex Plus system has been developed to deliver plumbers, builders and home owners a high quality yet cost effective pipe system for use with hot and cold water, rainwater, hydronic heating and recycled water distribution.

The Pex Plus product range is based on a premium quality cross-linked polyeth-ylene pipe which is used in conjunction with either of the two available ranges of dzr brass fittings.

When installed in accordance with the Pex Plus installation guidelines and the relevant Australian standards the Pex Plus system will provide years of trou-ble free service.

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PipePex Plus pipe is a high quality Pex-a cross linked pipe. Pex is an industry accepted name for cross linked polyethylene pipe. In general terms polyethylene in its nor-mal state is not capable of handling high pressure or temperature loads. However once subjected to the cross-linking proc-ess, its ability to handle these conditions is increased substantially.

Pex Plus pipe consists of an inner sec-tion of Pex-a material encased in an outer layer of tough hdpe.

Pex Plus also offers a pipe specifically for use in hydronic heating. This pipe is identified by its bright pink colour. Pex Plus pink is a similar construction to the standard Pex Plus pipes. However it also incorporates a layer of evoh ma-terial which acts as an oxygen barrier, thus preventing the entry of additional oxygen into the sealed heating system.

Pex Plus pipe is available in sizes 16, 20, 25 & 32mm, in either coils or straight lengths.

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Nomsize

Mean OD(mm)

Mean ID(mm)

16mm 16.15 11.45

20mm 20.15 14.15

25mm 25.15 17.75

32mm 32.15 22.85

Pex Plus pipe dimensions

Nompipesize

Straightlengths

(all)

Coil length(black)

Coil length(green, lilac)

Coil length(pink)

16mm 5m 100m 50m 200m

20mm 5m 100m 50m 100m

25mm 5m 50m 50m

32mm 5m 25m

16mm black + conduit

50m

20mm black + conduit

50m

Pex Plus pipe—standard supply units

The Pex Plus pipe is colour coded to assist the installer in avoiding cross connections.

BLACK Hot & cold potable water

GREEN Rainwater

LILAC Recycled water (non-potable)

PINK Hydronic heating

CONDUIT In/under slab hot & cold water

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PerformanceThe use of Pex Plus pipe provides users with many advantages over traditional piping materials. It has excellent flexibility, is not adversely affected by freezing, offers excellent pressure and temperature resistance, is lightweight and also has low noise and heat transmission qualities. The Pex Plus pipe pro-vides very low levels of friction loss and therefore can often save users needing to upsize piping when in-stalling long runs. As jointing methods are mechani-cal it does not require the use of solvents. Nor does it require soldering, welding or brazing.

Recommended working pressure relative to pipe material temperature

Temp (ºC) 20 40 60 80

Pressure (Kpa) 2000 1800 1500 1330

Pex Plus pipe heat & pressure performance

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Cross-sectionBlack, green, lilac pipe

1. Inner layer: combination of hdpe & crosslinking agent.2. Outer layer: hdpe compound.

Pink pipe

1. Inner layer: the same Pex layer as standard Pex Plus™ pipe.2. Middle layer: adhesive to bind internal pex-a layer to the external evoh layer(<0.01mm)3. Oxygen barrier (<0.01mm). Clear outer layer which prevents oxygen from entering the pipe system from the outside atmosphere.

Inner layer (PEX-a)

Outer layer (coloured HDPE)

Inner layer (PEX-a)Middle layer(red adhesive)Outer layer(EVOH)

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FittingsThe Pex Plus system offers two ranges of fittings. Pex Plus is an axial crimp system (more commonly known as a compression system) which involves drawing a sleeve along the pipe and over a barbed fitting to form a reliable and leak-proof joint. Crimp Plus is a radial crimp system which has a similar barbed fitting but is secured by crimping or squeezing a copper sleeve which in turn compresses the pipe over the barbed fitting to produce a secure joint.

Further information and descriptions of the jointing methods for Pex Plus can be found later in this guide. Both ranges of fittings are manufactured from high quality dezincification resistant (dzr) brass (In the case of Crimp Plus it also incorporates a solid copper crimp ring).

It will generally come down to the installer’s indi-vidual preference as to which system to use, as both comply fully with the relevant Australian Standards and are Watermark approved.

Pex Plus pipe fitting dimensions

Nomsize

Mean bore (mm)

16mm 10

20mm 12.5

25mm 15.3

32mm 20

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Features & benefitsSecure & easy jointing system– less time on the job.

Same pipe for Crimp Plus or Pex Plus system–carry less stock.

Simple hand tool compression method–less capital outlay on tooling.

Minimal need for brazing–less outlay on gas and consumables.

Low noise transmission in pex pipe–quieter, reduced water hammer.

Internal sealing method–reduced chance of leaks due to scratched/scuffed pipe.

Installation considerationsProximity to flame/external heat sourcesThe Pex Plus system should not be installed in posi-tions where it is likely to be exposed to a naked flame. If it is, there’s a danger the pipe could ignite and continue to burn even after the source of the flame is extinguished. In accordance with as/nzs 3500 all plastic pipes for water supply must be protected from excessive ambient heat.

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Thermal expansionThe Pex Plus pipe has an expansion rate of approx. 0.3mm per metre for every 10°C change in tempera-ture. Care should be taken not to pull the pipe tightly between fixed points during installation as this may later contract and apply excessive tensile force to any joints. This could cause a possible joint failure.

Heat & Pressure performanceAs with all plastic pipe systems the ability of the pipe to withstand pressure decreases as the pipe tempera-ture increases. (Refer to table on page 5)

Protection from physical damageDue care should be taken to protect pipe and fittings from any physical damage both prior to, during and after installation. Possible causes of physical dam-age may include (but are not limited to) sharp edges/implements, machinery, rodents, excessive heat, long term uv exposure, radiation, mechanical forces.

Pipe BendingPex pipe is very flexible and as such can save the need to use additional fittings. Due care should be taken during bending to ensure that pipe is not kinked or damaged. If you do encounter a kinked section of pipe it should be cut out and replaced as a precaution.

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Pex Plus pipe may be subjected to a minimum bend-ing radius of approx. 8 times the od of the pipe.

ClippingClipping requirements are outlined in the relevant Australian standards. The recommended clip spac-ings for Pex Plus pipe are:

Framework penetrationsWhere pipe is required to pass through timber or steel studs/frames, holes should be sized to allow for adequate pipe movement due to thermal expansion or contraction. In all cases, steps should be taken to protect the pipe from any possible physical damage (particularly due to abrasion) where it passes through studs or frames. This can be achieved by installing grommets, sleeves or stud clips as applicable.

Pipesize

Horizontalpipe work

Verticalpipe work

16mm 0.6m 1.2m

20mm 0.7m 1.4m

25mm 0.75m 1.5m

32mm 0.85m 1.7m

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UV exposureBoth Pex Plus black and Pex Plus green pipes are able to be installed in direct sunlight with no degradation likely to occur. Pex Plus lilac should be protected from long term exposure to uv by way of either lagging or enclos-ing in a conduit.Note: The above does not completely exclude the need for lagging to protect any of the pipes from tem-perature extremes.

TESTINGIt is essential that appropriate pressure testing (in accordance with AS/NZS 3500 or relevant local requirements) is carried out prior to burying or conceal-ing the Pex Plus system.

Tools

Terminology

Jointing toolExpanding toolPipe shears

Grooved ring

Bevelled end

Barb

Shoulder

Pipe stop

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Jointing instructionsCut pipeEnsure that the pipe is cutsquarely using universal pipe shears. Ensure that the pipe is deburred if necessary (Pipe shouldn’t need deburring if cut using universal shears.) The cut must be clean and square for a leak-proof joint. When cutting pipe for connection to a fitting, measure to the fitting shoulder.

Pipe expansionPipe must be expanded by using the Pex Plus expander.Ensure that the expander heads are not faulty or bro-ken as this may lead to the joint eventually leaking.

Holding the levers of the Expanding Tool fully open, screw on the expander head.

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Slip the jointing sleeve over the pipe with its bevelled end facing towards the fitting being joined.

Insert the expander head into pipe, ensur-ing that the expander is at right angles to the pipe. Ensure that the jointing sleeve is well clear of the area that is to be expanded

To expand the pipe, fully close the levers of the expanding tool. Hold them in position momentarily then release and rotate pipe or expander approxi-mately 30° and repeat the process. This ensures

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that the inside pipe surface is expanded evenly. Note: it should not be necessary to expand more than twice. Over or under expansion of the pipe can lead to possible joint failure.

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Joint assemblyInsert the fitting into the expanded pipe until the pipe reaches the pipe stop. (It does not need to reach to the shoulder) After a few moments the pipe will shrink and grip the fitting. Slide the jointing sleeve as far as you can towards the fitting.

Completion of jointThe recommended Pex Plus compression tool is to be used. Ensure that the tool is not damaged. Use of a damaged or non-complying tool will void warranty.

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Position the joint-ing sleeve and fitting squarely within the jaws of the jointing tool.

Draw the sleeve towards the fitting by closing the jaws of the jointing tool.

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The jointing sleeve is drawn over the pipe until it reaches the shoulder of the fitting.

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Joint inspectionAll joints are to be inspected once installation is com-plete. Ensure that the sleeves are drawn all the way to the fitting shoulder and that they are secured with the bevelled end closest to the fitting and the grooved ring at the furthest point from the fitting shoulder.

Pressure testAt completion, carry out pressure testing as required per as/nzs 3500 and or any requirements specified by local authorities.

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FAQWhat are some possible causes for joints leaking?When installed in accordance with the installation in-structions, Pex Plus should prove a very simple and effective piping system. However certain conditionsmay increase the possibility of a faulty or leaking joint.

Pipe has not been cut squarely.Pipe is not fully engaged on fitting barb.Compression sleeve has not been drawn com-pletely up to fitting shoulder.Pipe has been over-expanded (beyond the point where its memory can return it to original size).Teeth of expander are faulty or damaged leaving indentations inside the tube.

What do I do if the pipe kinks during installation?If during installation you encounter a kink in the pipe the kinked section should be cut out and replaced.

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Can I braze adaptors after the pex pipe has been fitted? No, all brazing or soldering must be performed on the fittings prior to the pex pipe being connected. Sufficient time should be allowed for the fitting to cool prior to attaching the pex pipe.

Is the Pex Plus system approved? Yes, the Pex Plus system is approved under the fol-lowing as/nzs standards. Fittings–as/nzs 2537 and Pipe–as/nzs 2492

Can I use Pex Plus to connect solar panels to the storage tank? No, the Australian Standards do not allow pex pipe to be used on the flow or return lines between solar panels and solar storage vessels.

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Compression Sleeve 16mmCompression Sleeve 20mmCompression Sleeve 25mmCompression Sleeve 32mm

Pex fittings

235090235091235092235093

No.1 Straight Coupling 16mmNo.1 Straight Coupling 20mmNo.1 Straight Coupling 25mmNo.1 Straight Coupling 32mm

235096235097235098235099

No.1 Reducing Coupling 20-16mmNo.1 Reducing Coupling 25-16mmNo.1 Reducing Coupling 25-20mmNo.1 Reducing Coupling 32-25mm

235102235103235104235105

No.2 Straight Connector 16mm × ½” FINo.2 Straight Connector 20mm × ½” FINo.2 Straight Connector 20mm × ¾” FI

235149235150235151

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235154235152235155235156235157235158235159235160235161

No.13 Elbow 16mm × ½” MINo.13 Elbow 20mm × ½” MINo.13 Elbow 20mm × ¾” MINo.13 Elbow 25mm × ¾” MI

235163235164235165235166

No.12 Elbow 16mmNo.12 Elbow 20mmNo.12 Elbow 25mmNo.12 Elbow 32mm

235108235109235110235111

No.14 Elbow 16mm × ½” FINo.14 Elbow 20mm × ½” FINo.14 Elbow 20mm × ¾” FI

235169235170235171

No.3 Straight Connector 16mm × ½” MINo.3 Straight Connector 16mm × ¾” MINo.3 Straight Connector 20mm × ½” MINo.3 Straight Connector 20mm × ¾” MINo.3 Straight Connector 25mm × ½” MINo.3 Straight Connector 25mm × ¾” MINo.3 Straight Connector 25mm × 1” MI No.3 Straight Connector 32mm × ¾” MI No.3 Straight Connector 32mm × 1” MI

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No.15BP Elbow 16mm × ½” FINo.15BP Elbow 20mm × ¾” FI

235178235177

No.19BP Elbow 16mm × ½” MI 65mm longNo.19BP Elbow 16mm × ½” MI 90mm longNo.19BP Elbow 20mm × ½” MI 95mm long

235179

235176

235173

No.19BP Elbow 16mm × ½” MI 150mm longNo.19BP Elbow 16mm × ½” MI 200mm longNo.19BP Elbow 20mm × ¾” MI 150mm long

235175

235174

235181

No.24 Tee 16mmNo.24 Tee 20mmNo.24 Tee 25mmNo.24 Tee 32mm

235114235115235116235117

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No. 25 tee reduced centre 20x20x16mmNo. 25 tee reduced centre 25x25x16mmNo. 25 tee reduced centre 25x25x20mmNo. 25 tee reduced centre 32x32x25mm

No 26 tee reduced end 20x16x20mmNo 26 tee reduced end 25x16x25mmNo 26 tee reduced end 25x20x25mm

No 27 tee reduced centre+end 20x16x16mmNo 27 tee reduced centre+end 25x16x16mmNo 27 tee reduced centre+end 25x20x20mmNo 27 tee reduced centre+end 32x25x25mm

235120235121235122235123

235126235127235128

235132235133235136235137

No.61 Stopper 16mmNo.61 Stopper 20mm

235204235205

No.62 Straight Tap Connector 16mm × ½” FI nut (flat seal)16mm × ½” FI nut (cone seal)20mm × ¾” FI nut (flat seal)20mm × ¾” FI nut (cone seal)

23518323518312351842351841

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No.63 Bent Tap Connector 16mm × ½” FI nutNo.63 Bent Tap Connector 20mm × ¾” FI nut

235185

235186

Connecting Barb 16mmConnecting Barb 20mmConnecting Barb 25mmConnecting Barb 32mm

235145235146235147235148

Flared Copper Comp. Union 16mm × ½”Flared Copper Comp. Union 20mm × ¾”

235094235095

Profile Bend Bracket 90°× 5D 16mmProfile Bend Bracket 90°× 5D 20mmProfile Bend Bracket 90°× 5D 25mm

235140235141235142

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Bath/Laundry Assembly R/A 8”Bath/Laundry Assembly R/A 12”

235194235193

Bath/Laundry Assembly 12” Straight235192

Shower Assembly R/A 6”Shower Assembly R/A 8”

235195235199

Shower Assembly R/A Barbs up 6”Shower Assembly R/A Barbs up 8”

235197235198

Shower Assembly 6” Straight235196

Open Clip Masonry Nail 16mmOpen Clip Masonry Nail 20mmOpen Clip Masonry Nail 25mm

Open Clip Metal screw 16mmOpen Clip Metal screw 20mmOpen Clip Metal screw 25mm

235073235074235075

235076235077235078

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25 year warrantyThe Pex Plus hot & cold water plumbing system car-ries a 25 year warranty against defects in materials or manufacturing of pipe and fittings produced under the Pex Plus name.This warranty is restricted by the following clauses:

Installation must have been carried out by a licenced plumber.Installation must be carried out in accordance with the Pex Plus installation instructions.Installation must be in full accordance with the relevant local and national plumbing codes and standards.

The Plumbing Plus merchant from whom you purchase Pex Plus product supports the warranty on this prod-uct and as such may request suitable information or evidence from the installer to support any warranty claim. The Plumbing Plus merchant concerned also reserves the right to engage a nominated outside agent of its own choice to assess any faulty product before honouring any warranty claim.

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Secure…Easy…Versatile…

AustralianStandard