Can PERT EVOH Pipe be used for floor heating systems?

Hey there! As a supplier of PERT EVOH pipes, I often get asked if these pipes can be used for floor heating systems. Well, let's dive right into it and find out!

What's PERT EVOH Pipe Anyway?

First off, let me give you a quick lowdown on PERT EVOH pipes. PERT stands for cross - linked polyethylene of raised temperature resistance. It's a type of plastic pipe known for its flexibility, high - temperature resistance, and long - term durability. EVOH, on the other hand, is an ethylene - vinyl alcohol copolymer. It's an excellent oxygen barrier material.

When we combine these two, we get PERT EVOH pipes. There are two common types: PERT/EVOH Pipe 5 Layers and PERT/EVOH Pipe 3 Layers. The 5 - layer pipes usually have a PERT outer layer, an adhesive layer, an EVOH oxygen barrier layer, another adhesive layer, and a PERT inner layer. The 3 - layer pipes have a simpler structure with a PERT layer on each side and an EVOH layer in the middle.

Why Oxygen Barrier Matters in Floor Heating

In a floor heating system, water is circulated through the pipes to transfer heat to the floor. If oxygen can penetrate the pipes and enter the water, it can cause several problems. Oxygen can lead to corrosion of metal components in the heating system, like radiators, boilers, and pumps. This corrosion can significantly reduce the lifespan of these expensive parts and also lead to inefficiencies in the heating system.

That's where the EVOH layer in PERT EVOH pipes comes in. It acts as a barrier, preventing oxygen from seeping into the water inside the pipes. This means less corrosion and a longer - lasting heating system.

Advantages of Using PERT EVOH Pipes for Floor Heating

Flexibility

One of the biggest pluses of PERT EVOH pipes is their flexibility. When installing a floor heating system, you need to bend the pipes around corners and under various obstacles. PERT EVOH pipes can be easily bent without the need for additional fittings in many cases. This not only makes the installation process quicker but also reduces the number of potential leak points in the system.

Temperature Resistance

Floor heating systems operate at relatively high temperatures. PERT EVOH pipes are designed to withstand these temperatures for long periods. They can handle the heat without deforming or losing their structural integrity, ensuring a reliable and efficient heating system over time.

Chemical Resistance

The PERT material in the pipes is resistant to a wide range of chemicals that might be present in the water used in the heating system. This means the pipes won't degrade easily due to chemical reactions, adding to their long - term durability.

Low Thermal Conductivity

PERT EVOH pipes have low thermal conductivity. This is actually a good thing for floor heating systems. It helps to keep the heat within the water as it circulates through the pipes, ensuring that more of the heat is transferred to the floor and into the room, rather than being lost through the pipe walls.

Installation Considerations

When using PERT EVOH pipes for floor heating, there are a few things to keep in mind during installation.

First, make sure to use the right fittings. Compression fittings or heat - fusion fittings are commonly used with PERT EVOH pipes. The fittings need to be properly sized and installed to ensure a tight seal and prevent leaks.

Second, pay attention to the layout of the pipes. The pipes should be evenly spaced to ensure uniform heat distribution across the floor. You also need to consider the flow rate of the water in the system. A professional installer can help you calculate the right pipe diameter and length to achieve the optimal flow rate.

Potential Drawbacks

Of course, no product is perfect. One potential drawback of PERT EVOH pipes is their cost. Compared to some other types of pipes used in floor heating systems, PERT EVOH pipes can be a bit more expensive. However, when you consider the long - term benefits, such as reduced maintenance and longer equipment lifespan, the extra cost might be worth it.

Another thing to note is that PERT EVOH pipes need to be protected from direct sunlight during storage and installation. UV rays can damage the pipes over time, reducing their performance and lifespan.

Case Studies

Let's take a look at a couple of real - world examples. In a large residential building project, the contractor initially considered using traditional metal pipes for the floor heating system. However, after weighing the pros and cons, they decided to go with PERT/EVOH Pipe 5 Layers. The installation was completed quickly thanks to the pipes' flexibility. After a year of operation, there were no signs of corrosion in the system, and the residents reported consistent and comfortable floor heating.

In another commercial project, a hotel used PERT/EVOH Pipe 3 Layers for its floor heating. The oxygen barrier feature ensured that the expensive heating equipment remained in good condition. The low thermal conductivity of the pipes also contributed to energy savings, which was a big plus for the hotel's bottom line.

Conclusion

So, can PERT EVOH pipes be used for floor heating systems? Absolutely! They offer a range of benefits, from excellent oxygen barrier properties to flexibility and temperature resistance. While there are some potential drawbacks like cost and the need for UV protection, the long - term advantages make them a great choice for many floor heating applications.

If you're in the market for pipes for your floor heating project, I'd love to have a chat with you. Whether you need PERT/EVOH Pipe 5 Layers or PERT/EVOH Pipe 3 Layers, we've got you covered. Reach out to us to discuss your requirements and get a quote. Let's work together to make your floor heating system a success!

References

• "Plastic Pipes for Building Services" by European Plastic Pipes and Fittings Association
• "Handbook of Floor Heating Systems" by various industry experts