PEX Plumbing Part 4, Poly-Alloy Fittings
What is Poly-Alloy? I don't have a degree in chemistry and will try to describe this as simply as possible. Poly-Alloy is also known as POLYPHENYLSULFONE. It is a thermoplastic resin, a brief definition being an engineered plastic base material that has the ability to repeatedly undergo heating and cooling. For more in depth technical information you can look up ACUDEL which is a registered trademark of SOLVEY Advanced Polymers.
In more general terms Poly-Alloy offers freedom from corrosion and less scale formation than brass fittings. It offers a good chemical and chlorine resistance. It has dimensional stability, it will retain it's size and shape. It withstands extremes in temperatures and pressures. The fittings are non-toxic and will not leach contaminants into drinking water. The life expectancy of the fittings is as good or better than brass.
As for manufacturers I have found WATTS and WATERLINE. As I find more I will update this page. Remember that Pex fittings, tubing and crimps are generally all interchangable. The only big difference is the type of tool need to connect "crimp" or "cinch" type clamps.
If you have not read my first PEX guide I would suggest you do so. Again I am not a plumber but have developed a great interest in the PEX system for plumbing. As an electrician I would like to remind you that if you install a PEX system you will need to be sure you have a good GROUND system for your electric. You will no longer have ground through your household plumbing although you can pick it up at the water main, if this is not also done in a plastic. Again I you like my guide I would appreciate you vote. If you don't please let me know what I can do to improve it. ( Also stop back soon as I will be starting to sell Poly-Alloy fittings.)
For an important safety issue please read my guide on electrical grounding: Pex and electrical grounds
Published by b l baird - Featured Contributor in Automotive
I spent many years in the electro-mechanical trades. I also worked as an electrician and did other forms of construction related work. I enjoy home repair projects and learning about how to do them. That, wi... View profile
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2 Comments
Post a Commentplumbing contractor with the resent problems of zurn,Quest,rehau,kitec,copper and the others that have not come into light Iam to say the least not convinced that polly alloy is any better fitting. If not for the cost after 35 years in this racket Galv pipe and fittings seem to make you sleep better at night. this industry has a problem as to what type of material will give the best service.we ether come up with that product or i feel we nee to start packing water from the nearest river because i at this point will do drainage but hirer sombody else to do the potable water system. thank you for your time rob carter carterpluminginc@gmail.com
Writers note: The statement, "as for manufacturers" should read, "as for suppliers". I am in the process of doing more research as to the actual manufacturers of the Poly-Alloy fittings.