Can PERT EVOH Pipe be used in swimming pool water circulation systems?

Hey there! As a supplier of PERT EVOH pipes, I often get asked if these pipes can be used in swimming pool water circulation systems. Well, let's dive right into this topic and find out.

First off, let's talk a bit about what PERT EVOH pipes are. PERT stands for Polyethylene Raised Temperature, which is a type of plastic that's known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to high - temperature environments. EVOH, on the other hand, is Ethylene - Vinyl Alcohol Copolymer, a material that acts as an excellent oxygen barrier. When these two are combined, we get PERT EVOH pipes that come in different layer configurations, like PERT/EVOH Pipe 5 Layers and PERT/EVOH Pipe 3 Layers.

Now, when it comes to swimming pool water circulation systems, there are several key factors to consider before deciding if PERT EVOH pipes are a good fit.

Chemical Resistance

Swimming pool water is treated with various chemicals to keep it clean and safe for swimming. Chlorine is the most common disinfectant used in pools, and it can be quite corrosive to some materials. PERT EVOH pipes have a good level of chemical resistance. The PERT base material is relatively inert and can withstand the low - level chlorine concentrations typically found in swimming pools. The EVOH layer also helps in protecting the pipe from external factors that could potentially cause degradation. However, it's important to note that extremely high chlorine levels or the use of other strong oxidizing agents could potentially damage the pipes over time. So, it's crucial to maintain the proper chemical balance in the pool water.

Temperature Resistance

Swimming pool water can vary in temperature depending on the season, location, and whether the pool is heated or not. PERT EVOH pipes are designed to handle a wide range of temperatures. They can comfortably withstand the normal temperature range of pool water, which is usually between 22°C - 28°C (72°F - 82°F). Even if the pool has a heating system and the water temperature goes up a bit, PERT EVOH pipes won't lose their structural integrity. They have a high - temperature tolerance, which means they won't expand or contract too much due to temperature changes. This is important because any significant expansion or contraction could lead to leaks or pipe failure in the water circulation system.

Pressure Resistance

The water circulation system in a swimming pool needs to maintain a certain level of pressure to ensure proper flow through the filters, pumps, and other components. PERT EVOH pipes are known for their good pressure - bearing capacity. They can handle the pressure generated by the pool pump without bursting or deforming. The multi - layer structure of PERT EVOH pipes, especially the 5 - layer ones, provides extra strength and stability. This is beneficial for the long - term performance of the swimming pool water circulation system, as it reduces the risk of pipe damage due to high - pressure situations.

Oxygen Barrier Properties

One of the unique features of PERT EVOH pipes is their excellent oxygen barrier properties. In a swimming pool water circulation system, preventing oxygen from entering the pipes is crucial. Oxygen can cause corrosion in metal components of the system, such as pumps and heaters. The EVOH layer in PERT EVOH pipes acts as a barrier, reducing the amount of oxygen that can permeate through the pipe walls. This helps in extending the lifespan of the entire water circulation system by protecting the metal parts from rust and corrosion.

Installation Ease

Installing a swimming pool water circulation system can be a complex task. PERT EVOH pipes are relatively easy to install compared to some other pipe materials. They are flexible, which means they can be bent around corners and obstacles without the need for a large number of fittings. This not only makes the installation process quicker but also reduces the number of potential leak points. The pipes can be joined using various methods, such as heat fusion or compression fittings, depending on the specific requirements of the installation.

Cost - Effectiveness

When it comes to building or renovating a swimming pool water circulation system, cost is always a consideration. PERT EVOH pipes are generally more cost - effective than some traditional pipe materials like copper or stainless steel. They are less expensive to purchase, and the installation costs are also lower due to their ease of installation. Additionally, their long - term durability means that there will be fewer maintenance and replacement costs over the life of the pool.

However, there are also a few potential drawbacks to using PERT EVOH pipes in swimming pool water circulation systems.

UV Resistance

If the pipes are installed outdoors and are exposed to direct sunlight, the UV rays can cause some degradation of the PERT EVOH pipes. The PERT material can become brittle over time when exposed to UV light, which could lead to cracks and leaks. To counter this, it's recommended to use pipes with a UV - resistant coating or to install the pipes in a shaded area or underground.

Compatibility with Existing Systems

In some cases, if you're renovating an existing swimming pool water circulation system, there might be compatibility issues with the PERT EVOH pipes. For example, if the existing system uses a different type of pipe material or fittings, it might be a challenge to integrate the new PERT EVOH pipes seamlessly. This could require some additional modifications or the use of special adapters.

In conclusion, PERT EVOH pipes can definitely be used in swimming pool water circulation systems. They offer many advantages, such as chemical resistance, temperature and pressure tolerance, oxygen barrier properties, ease of installation, and cost - effectiveness. However, you need to be aware of the potential drawbacks, like UV resistance and compatibility issues. If you take the necessary precautions, such as proper installation, maintaining the pool water chemistry, and protecting the pipes from UV exposure, PERT EVOH pipes can provide a reliable and long - lasting solution for your swimming pool water circulation needs.

If you're interested in using PERT EVOH pipes for your swimming pool project or have any questions about our products, feel free to reach out. We're here to help you make the best decision for your pool's water circulation system.

References

• ASTM International standards for plastic pipes used in water systems
• Technical literature provided by PERT EVOH pipe manufacturers
• Research studies on the performance of different pipe materials in swimming pool environments