Installation of polypropylene pipes for those who have encountered this at least once does not present any particular difficulties. Due to their advantages, polypropylene pipes are actively replacing metal pipelines in cold and hot water supply, heating, sewerage and ventilation systems.

This material is easy to handle, and deal with installation work maybe even a non-specialist, if you familiarize yourself with the conditions necessary in order to do a job of high quality.

There are mandatory rules for the quality installation of polypropylene pipes. The subtleties that you need to know begin already at the stage of work planning, the acquisition of material and fittings, and the preparation of the tool.

How weather conditions affect

Plan installation polypropylene pipes wires that need to be welded should be at an air temperature of at least +10°C. The exception is sewer pipes, which are connected into a socket without welding.

The subtlety is that too low an air temperature accelerates the cooling of the parts to be joined, and this time is only 30 seconds (of which 4 seconds are given for a small correction of the connection guide). Low temperature air does not leave time for correction, which can cause a poor connection.

Note! Installation of pipes made of polypropylene with negative values temperature environment do not carry out!

Influence of weather conditions:

  • direct sunlight accelerates the heating of polypropylene parts, since the starting temperature is higher than the calculated one;
  • wind accelerates cooling, reduces correction time (it is recommended to install a shield);
  • rain requires mandatory protection of the work site, since welding of wet parts is prohibited.

Note! It is very important to comply with the required working conditions. Violation of the polypropylene welding technology leads to a leaky joint. You can fix the error only by replacing the node.

Choice of accessories

There are several rules that will help to avoid errors in the installation of polypropylene pipelines:

  1. The choice of pipes and fittings is carried out depending on the purpose of communications.
  2. It is better to buy material from one manufacturer - in this case, the pipes are ideal for fittings. Focus on the label. The color of the goods on the quality and specifications products does not affect, but is, rather, " calling card» manufacturer. For example, gray pipes made in the Czech Republic, white - Turkish or Valtek. The exception is black products - they are resistant to ultraviolet radiation.
  3. If you plan to hide the pipeline in the floor or walls, then it is better to choose green material - it is made in Germany and is rightfully considered the highest quality.
  4. Material should be purchased in accordance with a detailed plan-scheme of the future pipeline.

Installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes is a sequence of operations for assembling a pipeline in a house or in a house adjoining area. Unique properties products make it easy to mount the structure even for an inexperienced user. How to do this, we will consider in this article.

Design features of a water supply system made of polypropylene pipes

The water pipeline from polypropylene pipes is assembled in the form of a multi-branch structure, through which the liquid flows to the point of consumption. To create it, you will need pipes and special parts for connecting individual pieces - fittings, also made of plastic.

When choosing pipes, pay attention to the material from which they are made. The scope of products depends on the type of polypropylene.

Pipe material Application Advantages Flaws
PP-N single layer pipe For cold water High strength Low temperature resistance, high thermal expansion
PP-B single layer pipe For cold and warm water High thermal expansion
PP-R multilayer pipe For cold and hot water High strength and heat resistance Very low thermal expansion

There are several dozen types of fittings, but the most popular are:

  • Couplings- cylindrical products, the diameter of which is the same and corresponds to the diameter of the connected cuts.
  • Adapters- parts for connecting workpieces of different sizes.
  • corners- products for changing the direction of the route. Parts are bent at an angle of 45-90 degrees. The use of corners when bending the water pipe is mandatory. It is strictly forbidden to bend the plastic after heating, because. the walls become thinner, while the pipe loses its strength.
  • Crosses and tees- fittings for connecting several workpieces in one place. Available in various configurations and sizes.

In the photo, accessories for polypropylene pipes

Other components are often used in the plumbing:

  • Contours- factory-bent tubes that make it easy to bypass small obstacles. They are produced in a large assortment, which allows you to choose samples that will pass at a minimum distance from the object.
  • Compensators various types necessary to eliminate the effects of thermal expansion of polypropylene pipes.
  • Cover caps for openings which are not planned to be used in the near future.
  • Distribution nodes For collector wiring pipes to equalize fluid pressure in different points water intake.
  • Ball Valves- are placed in front of each plumbing fixture to shut off the water.
  • Mounting clamps or clips- are used for fastening the highway to the walls.

Installation technology of water supply from polypropylene pipes

In order for the installation to go smoothly, careful preparation is necessary. Break the whole process into stages and think over each operation. First, study the properties of polypropylene products and carry out design work. After completing the theoretical part, proceed to the assembly of the structure.

Development of a water supply scheme from polypropylene pipes

The plumbing scheme is necessary for quick and high-quality installation of the structure. When designing a water supply system from polypropylene pipes, follow the requirements of SNiP and listen to the advice of experts:

  • Draw on the plan the location of the taps and the source of water.
  • Show polypropylene pipes and everything that can influence the direction of the route on the water supply scheme. Branches with the minimum number of turns are considered optimal. A sharp change in the direction of the route reduces the pressure.
  • Polypropylene pipes are connected by welding, so leave a good approach to the joint and a place for a soldering iron.
  • It is considered a good decision to hide the highway in the wall strobes or behind drywall sheets.
  • Place vertical lines in the corners of the room, horizontal lines near the floor near the walls.
  • Choose a pipe layout method (tee or manifold) and show the location of the branches.
  • To save money and materials, do the wiring in the middle of the highway. For the same purpose, connect new lines to existing ones.
  • Consider where you need to place compensators that perceive the linear expansion of the route. They prevent the appearance of stresses in the seams and joints. Compensators must be installed in hot water systems.
  • Decide where in the future it is possible to connect additional lines to the pipelines. Draw temporary conclusions in these places and drown them out.

Preparation for the installation of polypropylene pipes

At this stage, decide on the dimensions of the polypropylene pipes for the water supply, purchase consumables and special tools for the job.

In the photo, polypropylene pipes and fittings for installing water pipes

When buying pipes, pay attention to the following points:

  • Each type of polypropylene pipes has its own advantages and disadvantages and is designed for operation in certain conditions. Therefore, the products you choose must meet the requirements of the consumer.
  • It is easiest to determine the footage of blanks and the number of fittings according to a pre-designed water supply scheme. Buy all blanks with a margin.
  • When choosing accessories, carefully inspect them. The presence of roughness and sagging on the surface is not allowed.
  • The cut of the product must be round, the wall thickness is the same along the entire length.
  • Try putting the fitting on the pipe. If the parts are connected, then you have a defective product. It is impossible to dock workpieces without heating with a special soldering iron.

To install polypropylene pipes for plumbing with your own hands, buy or rent assembly tools. Do not use improvised means. Only special devices will allow you to work easily and quickly and get a quality connection.

In the photo, a tool for welding polypropylene pipes

Tools that are used when welding individual parts of the highway:

  1. Soldering iron (welding machine) for attaching parts to each other. Do not choose cheap equipment, the price may indicate the low quality of the device. It is necessary to select Teflon nozzles for it, the diameter of which corresponds to the diameter of the pipes. Usually such a kit comes with a soldering iron. It is not recommended to use sleeves partially coated with Teflon. In this place, the plastic will stick, which leads to a deterioration in the quality of the joint. If you are going to mount the plumbing with your own hands, buy a device with a special stand to hold it in the working position, because you will have to work on weight.
  2. Ring cutter (pipe cutter) or special cutting pliers plastic products. The device allows you to cut even thin-walled products without disturbing their shape. If there are few joints, you can get by with an ordinary hacksaw for wood.
  3. Calibrator- a device in the form of a reamer for chamfering the ends of pipes and preparing the surface for soldering.
  4. Shaver- a device for removing the aluminum layer located outside. If the metal layer is inside the plastic, the operation is not performed.

Connection of polypropylene pipes by welding

Connecting pipes by soldering is considered the best option for polypropylene plumbing. It is used for fastening adjacent products made from the same material, preferably even from the same manufacturer. It is better to do the work together: an assistant is needed to hold the device at a given distance from the pipe

Take the work very seriously, because. joints are inseparable.

Photo of a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

If you have never soldered plastic with your own hands before, practice on unnecessary corners and cuts. Please note that soldering at the table is easier than assembling the line in a regular place.

On ready plan water pipe, select sections that can be welded separately, and then connected to the main line. Thus, it is possible to reduce the work performed on weight.

First, assemble and fasten those parts of the line that cannot be assembled separately. Leads should remain on the wall, to which branches mounted aside will subsequently be connected.

Important! Start laying water pipes from polypropylene pipes from plumbing fixtures.

Work on the assembly of the line by welding is carried out in the following sequence:

  • Perform the installation of the main elements: taps, washbasins and other plumbing.
  • Mark with a marker on the wall (or on another surface) the route between the plumbing, using the developed scheme.
  • Fasten movable and fixed clamps along the route for fastening polypropylene pipes for water supply.
  • Measure on the workpiece a piece of pipe corresponding to the size on the plumbing diagram, taking into account the entry of the pipe into the connector, and cut it with a pipe cutter. If not available, use a hacksaw or a sharp knife. The product is recommended to be cut at an angle of 90 degrees.
  • Clean the cut area from burrs (if any), and parts from dust. Make sure they are dry. Even small wet areas will degrade the quality of the joint. Degrease surfaces with alcohol.
  • Determine how far the pipe will go into the fitting. Measure this distance from its end, add 1 mm and put a mark. To determine the size, use a ruler or other measuring tool to avoid errors.
  • Clean the outside reinforced pipe from the foil in the gap between the end and the mark.
  • Cut a chamfer at the end of the workpiece. Normative documents allow chamfering at an angle of 45 degrees for half the wall thickness of the product. The operation is performed by a calibrator or other instrument. Check that the material is removed evenly.
  • Before soldering polypropylene pipes for plumbing, read the instructions for use of the soldering iron.
  • Select nozzles according to the size of the pipe and fitting. They must be worn tightly on the blanks so that good contact between the details. Sleeves are covered with Teflon, which prevents them from sticking to plastic.
  • Fit nozzles of a suitable diameter onto the device.
  • Fix the soldering iron on the stand, fixing it from moving. If necessary, involve an assistant to hold the device in the desired position.
  • Turn on the device and set it to a temperature of 260 degrees (if the soldering iron has a regulator). It is optimal for plastic and safe for Teflon-coated tips. No other temperature is used in soldering irons, so there is nothing to worry about if the regulator is missing. The readiness of the device for further work is determined by the indicator.
  • Install the pipe at the same time in the sleeve nozzle, and the fitting in the pin nozzle. The workpiece is inserted into the sleeve with force due to the special shape of the fixture: the nozzle is made in the form of a cone with an inclination of 5 degrees, and the flat part starts only from the middle. Press the pipe into the sleeve until it stops, but no more. If you apply further force, a thickening will appear at the end, directed inward, which will reduce the cross section of the product.
  • Wait for the pieces to heat up. Usually the process lasts 10-15 seconds. During this time, the outer surface of the pipe and the inner fitting will melt. The warm-up time is specified in the instructions for use of the device, and these requirements must be strictly adhered to. It depends on the diameter of the product and the wall thickness. Information about temperature regime can also be obtained from special tables in international standards. It is impossible to overheat the parts - they will lose their shape. If removed earlier, a leak may occur in this place.
  • Remove the parts from the soldering iron and quickly articulate, guided by pre-applied marks. Dock the parts smoothly, turning is not allowed. During the process, check the alignment of the axes of the pipe and fitting.
  • There are only a few seconds to correct the position of the products. The heated plastic of the pipe and connector is mixed and, after solidification, forms a single structure.
  • Fix the parts in a stationary state for 20-30 seconds so that the plastic hardens. After that, any changes in their mutual arrangement can lead to loss of sealing in the joint. You can move the node after 15 minutes. Test for strength and tightness - in a day.
  • After welding, inspect the Teflon tips. If any plastic residue is found, remove it with a wooden object. Carry out the procedure until the plastic is frozen.
  • After assembling all the nodes, connect them to the pipes that were mounted in the first place and fixed to the walls.
  • Fix the structure to the walls with clamps in accordance with the recommendations below.

Note! A sign of a quality connection is a collar that forms around the pipe. He appears inside, but he is not visible. If the dimensions of the shoulder are the same around the circumference, then the parts have warmed up evenly. With uneven heating, the height of the thickening changes, and a leak may appear at the lowest point.

The use of compression fittings for connecting polypropylene pipes

In this way, polypropylene pipes for water supply are connected to metal products. The pieces are joined with compression fittings, consisting of threaded parts and clamping rings. Joints withstand pressure up to 16 atmospheres.

The work is performed in the following sequence:

  • Select the compression fitting according to the outside diameter of the pipe.
  • Cut off the workpiece right size.
  • Insert the pipe into the connector, put on the ferrule and nut.
  • Screw the nut first by hand until it stops, and then finally with a special crimping wrench.
  • Screw the fitting into the metal pipe or other product connector. For reliability, screw a sealing thread onto the threaded part.

Fastening polypropylene pipes to the wall

After welding the line, fix it to the walls, taking into account the coefficient of thermal expansion of the material. Single-layer pipes are elongated the most. For reinforced ones, it is 5 times less. Work is carried out at least 1 hour after the connection of the entire system.

With improper fastening of polypropylene pipes for water supply, longitudinal stress appears in the structure, which reduces strength and reduces its service life.

To avoid trouble, follow our recommendations:

  • Do not use short branches with increased rigidity in the trunk.
  • The distance between the clamps must meet the requirements normative documents. You can not fix the water pipe too rarely, this can lead to their sagging and pinching at the location of the clamps.
  • To fix the pipes, use fixed and movable supports. The first rigidly fasten the product and do not allow it to expand. They are used to fix individual sections of the highway (risers, branching points). Movable supports allow pipes to expand freely.

Prices for the installation of water supply from polypropylene pipes

The photo shows a hidden wiring of polypropylene pipes

It is not difficult to mount a water supply system from polypropylene pipes with your own hands, especially since the manufacturers have done everything to facilitate the assembly of the structure. However, if the installation is performed by inexperienced users, there will be no confidence in the quality of the work performed. In the absence of experienced specialists among relatives and friends, you can turn to professional plumbers.

When calculating the cost of installing a water supply system from polypropylene pipes, it is necessary to take into account all the nuances of the work. Prices are determined by the following factors:

  • Type of polypropylene pipes. Products with an outer braid are more expensive due to the need to remove the outer layer at the soldering point.
  • For welding pieces, a soldering iron is used, which should be held motionless in advance certain place. If the conditions are difficult, the master will need an assistant, the price of the work will be higher, because. he will also have to pay.
  • The complexity of the developed water supply project and non-standard wishes of the customer.
  • The number of floors of the house, its area, an unusual design.
  • The number of plumbing fixtures and mechanisms to which water must be supplied, and their location in the house.
  • When installing polypropylene pipes, it is necessary to pay for the drilling of technological holes in the wall for laying the route.
  • If the customer saved on the cost of the material and bought low-quality blanks, the master will spend more time on their installation, therefore, he will increase the prices for his services.

The tables below show the cost of individual operations during the installation of polypropylene pipes.

The price of installation of polypropylene pipes in Ukraine:

Job Title Conditions Unit Price, UAH.
Installation of the route d 20-32 mm p.m. 15-40
PC. 10-20
PC. 20-25
dot From 160
Pipe fastening dot From 12
Ball valve installation Depending on the diameter dot From 30
m.p. 70-150

The price of installation of polypropylene pipes in Russia:

Job Title Conditions Unit price, rub.
Installation of the route d 20-32 mm p.m. 250-300
Soldering of fittings (corner, coupling) d 20-32 mm PC. 100-150
Soldering fittings (tee) d 20-32 mm PC. 150-200
Pipe connection to plumbing fixtures Depending on the type of equipment dot From 300
Pipe fastening dot From 80
Ball valve installation Depending on the diameter dot From 150
Chasing to hide pipes in the wall depending on wall material m.p. 350-800

How to make a water pipe from polypropylene pipes - look at the video:

It is not difficult to assemble a water pipe from polypropylene pipes with your own hands. To do this, you should learn how to use a soldering machine to connect workpieces. In addition, you will need knowledge of the requirements of SNiP for water pipes, which should be strictly followed during installation work.

The use of polypropylene pipes when installing a new or replacing an old plumbing system is justified many times, given the advantages of this technological material, the simplicity and speed of work. With a complete set of tools and accessories, as well as the skills of welding plastic pipes, the internal wiring of linear pipelines in the house can be completed in just one day, along with connecting the equipment. Remember that a self-built plumbing will serve faithfully long years only if the installation technology is carefully followed and the recommendations of the manufacturers are followed.

Material Advantages

Polypropylene pipes and fittings

Increasingly, products made of various types of plastics are replacing metal pipes in the installation of life support systems for residential buildings. When arranging plumbing and heating systems, pipes made of polypropylene have proven themselves best. Here are just some of the advantages of this material and the benefits of using it:

  • High durability (up to 50 years of operation in cold water supply systems);
  • Ease of installation (during operation no special training and expensive equipment is required);
  • High resistance to chemical compounds;
  • No deposits over time;
  • High sound absorbing ability;
  • Low coefficient of thermal conductivity (no condensate on the outer surface);
  • Light weight (easy to transport and install);
  • High environmental friendliness.

Note that when choosing products made of polypropylene, it is better to give preference to products from leading European or domestic companies. Although it is more expensive than materials from China, it is provided with a manufacturer's guarantee for the main technological and environmental factors.

Installation instructions

When installing the plumbing system, it should be remembered that the water supply occurs under high pressure, therefore, not only competent welding of pipes and fittings is required, but also the correct and reliable connection of pipeline sections to equipment.

The use of polypropylene products during the installation of the water supply system will ensure its reliable operation for 25-50 years

We draw up a diagram

Before starting work, they choose how the piping will be laid out and draw up an installation diagram indicating the exact amount of consumables. When building a water supply system, you can choose both serial and parallel wiring of the water supply system. The first is a common main line, to which, with the help of tees, all draw-off points are connected in series. By choosing this method of installation, you can significantly save materials. In addition, the choice of such a scheme greatly simplifies the work, although this method is not without some drawbacks. Firstly, the need to turn off one consumer forces the entire highway to be closed. Secondly, with the simultaneous inclusion of several points of water intake, a pressure drop in the extreme sections is possible. And if the first drawback is easy to eliminate by installing additional locking devices on each branch, then the second one will have to come to terms.

Scheme of sequential wiring of cold and hot water supply pipes

These shortcomings are deprived of a parallel type of wiring, in which the input line is divided into several pressure pipelines (according to the number of water intake branches) through a collector. If it is necessary to maintain and repair equipment, only the problematic branch is turned off, leaving the rest to function as usual. In addition, the distribution of pressure in the system occurs evenly even when it is significantly reduced. A separate advantage is the ability to install pressure reducing devices or metering devices on separate branches of the system. The disadvantage of the parallel circuit is its bulkiness. A large number of wiring greatly increases the complexity of installation and greatly increases the total cost of the system.
Both types of wiring can be made both in an open way and in a flush-mounted way. In the second case, pipe joints in places inaccessible for maintenance and repair should be avoided.

Parallel water distribution is not possible without the installation of a distribution manifold

How to calculate the amount of materials needed

You can start calculations immediately after choosing the type of wiring. The easiest way is not to draw up a pipeline diagram on graph paper, as recommended in many sources, but to draw directly “in kind” - on the walls of the premises. At the same time, you will not only maximize the accuracy of calculations, but you will also be able to avoid mistakes in the choice of fittings, as well as provide for the most rational placement of pipeline branches. Also important is the ability to most accurately select the type of fastening of pipes both to walls and to equipment.
The choice of pipe diameter directly depends on the length of the line. If the pipeline has a length of more than 30m, then use 32mm pipes. With a line length of less than 30 m, it is rational to use products with a diameter of 25 mm. A system with a length of up to 10m can be mounted even with 20mm pipes. It is only important that throughput the riser was sufficient, and this is possible when using elements with a diameter of at least 32mm.
When drawing up a pipe layout diagram, they mark the places of their intersection (here you will need to install special envelope fittings) and the tie-in points of the consumer connection branches (count the number of tees or crosses). It also determines how many locking devices and plugs are required. Using the method of drawing up an installation diagram "in place", it is easy to calculate and total corner fittings, clips for attaching pipes to walls, and even how many couplings you have to use in the process. In addition, threaded fittings are required to connect equipment. For these purposes, it is best to use the so-called "American", which makes it easy to dismantle the devices if necessary.

If you have encountered the installation of polypropylene products for the first time, take a few additional fittings of each type “in reserve”: it is unlikely that you will be able to avoid installation errors in the first stages of work.

Tools

Apparatus for welding products from polypropylene

The process of installing polypropylene pipelines does not require expensive equipment, so even buying a complete set of everything you need will not cause a significant blow to the budget allocated for the construction of a water supply system. In the process of work you will need:

  • pipe cutter or scissors for cutting polyethylene pipes;
  • beveler;
  • shaver for removing the top coating of pipes containing aluminum reinforcement;
  • apparatus for socket welding of pipes made of polypropylene (soldering iron);
  • set of nozzles for pipes of different diameters.

When choosing equipment, it is better to pay attention to a soldering iron with built-in temperature indicators and Teflon-coated nozzles. Such a tool is highly reliable and will allow you to make joints High Quality. The only thing you can save on from the list presented is a pipe cutter. It can easily be replaced with a hacksaw.

Installation rules: step by step instructions

It is best to cut pipes with special scissors

At the initial stage, they prepare a place for work - free the premises from unnecessary things and equipment and dismantle the old system, having previously cut off the water supply. The installation of the water supply system begins from the side of the riser, moving towards the points of water intake. Step-by-step work can save you from mistakes:

  • Cut the pipes to the desired size and chamfer the top of the pipe edge. In accordance with the DVS-2207-1 standard, it must have an angle of 15 ° and a recess of up to 3 mm. Domestic GOST regulates a slope of 45 ° and a depth equal to a third of the pipe wall thickness. In any case, the accuracy of these parameters is not of great importance;
  • Clean off dirt and degrease the ends of the pipes;
  • Set the thermostat of the welding machine to a temperature of 260 ° C (if such a function is available) or follow its warm-up, guided by the indicator;
  • To weld parts, put the fitting on a special soldering iron nozzle, called a mandrel, on one side, and on the other, insert the end of the pipe to be welded into the sleeve.

During installation, it is important to accurately observe the temperature regime.

The fitting on the mandrel and the pipe in the sleeve are installed with little effort, since the nozzles are made with a 5 ° taper. The pipe is inserted into the sleeve until it stops, avoiding excessive pressure. Remember that strong pressure leads to melting of the end of the pipe and a decrease in its flow area.

  • The heating time of polypropylene elements depends on their thickness and is indicated in the instructions for the heater. Remember that overheating of the elements for installation leads to their melting and deformation, which does not allow you to connect the products in the future;
  • After removing the parts from the soldering iron in shortest time produce their orientation and docking. Rotation of parts after their connection is not allowed. To accurately connect a pipe to a fitting, you can mark the insertion depth on its outer surface. For a pipe with a diameter of 25mm, this value is 16mm;
  • Using clips, fasten the pipes to the walls. The distance between adjacent elements should be no more than 1m. Elements of equipment and fittings are fixed rigidly with the help of special clamps;
  • To seal the connections of the pipeline with the elements of the equipment, fum-tape or tow is used.

Metal pipes are confidently displaced by more modern analogues. When repairing or erecting a new building, they increasingly arrange plumbing and heating in an apartment with their own hands from polypropylene.

Do-it-yourself installation.

Anatomy of polypropylene pipes

Externally, polypropylene pipes differ only in diameter and color. Other indicators are much more important: the density of the material, internal structure, Wall thickness. These characteristics affect application and installation.

According to the structure, 3 types are distinguished:

  • single-layer - only homogeneous polymers are used;
  • three-layer with fiberglass reinforcement, which is located in the middle of the pipe;
  • multilayer with aluminum foil - the design is similar to the previous one, but with some differences.

Polypropylene pipes are reinforced to reduce the negative impact of thermal expansion. When heating products without a layer, it is 15 mm per 1 m.

Pipes began to be made multilayer, laying aluminum foil or fiberglass between the polymer. The main purpose of such a gasket is to reduce thermal elongation. Fiberglass reduces it by 4-5 times, aluminum - by half.

The reinforcement material has different properties. Fiberglass products can withstand temperatures up to +90°C, which is not enough for some heating systems. The temperature range of aluminum foil is slightly higher.

Pipes are perforated if aluminum mesh is used for reinforcement. Plastic flows into its holes, forming a strong connection of dissimilar materials. Polypropylene tubing with aluminum foil is smooth.

PP material classification

There are 2 large groups polypropylene pipes: single-layer and multi-layer. The features of the former are determined by the material used in production. Homopropylene (РРН) is suitable for cold water, random copolymer (PPR) - for hot and heating with temperatures up to +70°С. More temperature resistant PPS. For underfloor heating, pipes are made from block copolymer (PPB).

Multilayer PP pipes are more rigid, less susceptible to thermal expansion.

They are durable, but the use of aluminum foil has negative aspects:

  • if it is in the middle, it must be cleaned before welding, which takes a lot of time;
  • half of the pipe is soldered to the fitting, an error leads to a loose connection;
  • if the foil is inside, it looks like metal-plastic, water can penetrate the metal and become contaminated.

Classification of polypropylene pipes.

They are far superior in performance to products reinforced with fiberglass. Manufacturers specifically color it.

Positive aspects of using fiberglass for reinforcement:

  • no cleaning required before welding;
  • increased rigidity;
  • less thermal expansion;
  • walls are monolithic, not multi-layered.

For cold water the best option- single layer; they are cheap and easy to install. It is better to let hot water through a pipeline reinforced with fiberglass. For heating systems of a private house, polypropylene pipelines with an aluminum layer are more suitable. It is better to choose those where it is located closer to the surface, and not in the middle - this facilitates installation.

What does the marking look like?

Products have a special designation of Latin letters and numbers.

Understanding their meaning, it is easy to choose PP pipes on your own:

  1. PN10 - withstand low temperature and pressure. Used in private housing for plumbing.
  2. PN16 - the wall is thicker, suitable for centralized cold and hot water. Withstand temperatures up to +50°C.
  3. PN20 - maximum temperature - + 90 ° С. They can be used for hot water and heating of a private house.
  4. PN25 - technical characteristics are ultra-high. Unprofitable to use - cheaper PN20 fully meet the needs.

Customers can also be guided by the colored stripes. For pipes intended for heating, they are red, for cold water they are blue or absent.

Table “Marking of polypropylene pipes”.

Appearance and internal structure

At the end you can see that quality products have the correct round shape. Around the circumference of the wall of the same thickness. Internal structure it can be single-layer or from 2 layers of polypropylene with reinforcement. An optional aluminum or fiberglass sheath is used. The surface must be smooth, even, reinforcement without gaps.

Painted in gray, white or green, which does not affect the quality. Color is chosen for aesthetic reasons. Green color is characteristic mainly for German firms.

Advantages and disadvantages of PP

The use of polypropylene in the installation of water pipes and heating is explained by its advantages:

  • the material is cheap, light, not afraid of shock;
  • he is not afraid of corrosion, the internal section does not decrease from plaque - it does not form;
  • withstands several freezing cycles without damage;
  • manufacturers indicate a 10-year warranty, but a trunk with cold water serves up to 50 years;
  • attractive appearance, which lasts the entire service life - pipelines do not need to be painted;
  • high sound absorption - water noise is not audible;
  • low thermal conductivity, which makes them effective for the heating system;
  • completely environmentally friendly, drinking water stays clean.

Advantages and disadvantages of polypropylene pipes.

The main advantage is convenient and fast installation., at which a completely sealed durable connection is achieved. Installation is simpler, cheaper than installing metal counterparts.

There are disadvantages when working with PP products:

  • they do not bend;
  • elongate when heated;
  • a special tool is required for installation.

Masters professionally involved in polypropylene have long developed techniques to compensate for these difficulties.

Preparation for installation of PP pipes

Before installation, you need to prepare everything you need - tools and materials for connecting pipes. You have to choose which wiring method to use.

Drafting a project

So that after work it does not turn out that the installation of polypropylene pipes was made with errors, a detailed diagram is drawn up indicating the connections. They try to keep the length as short as possible, avoid intersections, reduce to the minimum amount bends. The drawing can be transferred to the walls by drawing with a pencil.

Before purchasing materials, they are determined with a wiring diagram.

For heating, there are 4 ways to connect batteries:

  • flowing;
  • with bypass;
  • with valves;
  • through a three-way valve.

The final scheme depends on financial capabilities - the cost of stop valves is significant.

For the installation of a water supply system with their own hands, a tee or collector wiring is used.

The first is more suitable for apartments with a small amount of plumbing equipment that is connected in series.

The second circuit is parallel, the outlets from the collector at the inlet each go to a separate device. They use a closed or open method of laying pipelines.

The first option is more complicated, requires accurate calculations, in particular, the calculation of the thermal expansion of polypropylene. Open is less conspicuous if done neatly. Vertical pipelines are located in the corners, horizontal - near the floor. Installation is easier, easy to maintain.

Instrument preparation

The main tool is a soldering iron for polypropylene with nozzles.

In addition to it, you will need:

  • pipe cutter for cutting plastic;
  • shaver - they remove the reinforcing layer before soldering;
  • bevel calibrator.

You will need other tools - a tape measure, wrenches, a marker, a knife.

Selection of polypropylene fittings

Types of polypropylene fittings.

According to the scheme, the connection points and what fittings will be needed are determined:

  • couplings - connect straight segments;
  • corners - to change the direction of the pipeline;
  • contours - carry out the transition of one pipe through another;
  • tees and crosses - for connecting bends;
  • plugs - close the pipeline.

To connect pipes made of polypropylene of different diameters, coupling adapters are used. To connect a polypropylene pipeline to a metal one, use a fitting. It is threaded on one side.

Connection scheme selection

For polypropylene with a diameter of up to 63 mm, the socket soldering method is used, when the pipe enters the coupling with its molten end. If the size is more than 63 mm, butt-solder.

The presence of a thread on the parts allows you to make the connection detachable. 2 fittings are used, one has an external thread, the other has an internal thread. If 2 polypropylene products are soldered, the connection is one-piece.

Step by step instructions for welding PP pipes

When the scheme is thought out, everything necessary is purchased, they start welding.

Pipe cutting

Use a pipe cutter that provides a smooth end without bevels. You can use a hacksaw for metal by laying the pipe in a miter box. If cut unevenly, soldering will form on the longer end, which will block part of the internal passage.

The pipe cutter is designed so that, pressing the wide base against the product, it provides a right angle. When choosing a tool, pay attention to what maximum diameter is available.

Pipe processing and chamfering

Step by step instructions for welding polypropylene pipes.

Burrs are removed from the cut pipe and a chamfer is formed on the side that will enter the fitting socket.

There are many types of calibrators, bevelers, screwdriver bits that can handle this task.

With aluminum-reinforced pipes, the top layer and foil are removed. Use a shaver - a cylinder with handles. It is designed for products of the same diameter.

After the performed operations, the parts are wiped, removing dust and abrasives that spoil the nozzle. It is also cleaned, inspected to see if there is any molten plastic left inside.

Carry out the marking of the depth of planting of the PP in the fitting. For products of different diameters, the welded joint deepens unequally. This parameter is measured and a mark is made on the tubular product with a marker. If planted too deep, the passage narrows.

Soldering iron preparation

The welding apparatus is located in a convenient place and firmly fixed. If the design does not provide for fixation, it is better to work with an assistant so that your hands are free. Then install the nozzle, turn on the power. The soldering iron heats up, which takes about 10 minutes.

Soldering working temperature +260°С. This is the optimal mode for polypropylene and gentle for Teflon nozzles. It is better for a novice master to buy a tool without setting the temperature - it is set by the manufacturer. When the machine warms up, the green LED will light up or the red LED will turn off, depending on the model.

Table of heating and connected parts.

After preparing the parts and warming up the soldering iron, welding begins:

  1. The fitting and the pipe are simultaneously put on the nozzle warmed up to the operating temperature. They are inserted with little effort, because the nozzles have a slight taper. The workpiece is pushed to the stop.
  2. The waiting time depends on the diameter of the products. Use the table that is in the instructions for the tool. Violation of the norms leads to marriage - the inner diameter decreases from overheated plastic, which forms an influx. Subsequently, water circulation is reduced.
  3. The elements are removed, the pipe is smoothly inserted into the fitting up to the mark. Hold for 5 seconds, then release. This is the time it takes to correct the error. Rotate hot items no more than 10°.

How to fix the pipeline

It is required not only to solder correctly, but also to dilute the polypropylene water pipe, to fix it so that it does not sag and deform. Fixation is carried out using special fasteners. Clips (single, double, clamping) allow free movement of the pipeline along the axis. Clamps are designed for tight fixation.

Hot water leads to an increase in the length of the PP products. If the fastening is rigid, a break at the soldering point is possible. The tension is relieved by compensators of various types: ring and similar in configuration to Z, G, P. Polypropylene pipelines cannot be mounted tightly in the corner - a small distance is needed for the pipe to move freely during expansion.

New technologies and materials in construction appear constantly, gradually replacing traditional materials. A good example of this is plumbing. Fifteen years ago, metal was used in most cases - in general, there was no alternative. Today, almost everywhere, metal is replaced with polymers, since they are easier to install, cost less, last the same or even more. One of the most popular modern materials is propylene. Installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes is good because you can do it yourself. This will require a special soldering iron and some experience. A soldering iron can be rented, and experience is acquired. You can practice on the most inexpensive fittings and small pieces of pipe.

Marking and scope

It is necessary to start the installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes by choosing the type of pipes. They are single-layer and three-layer, they also differ in wall thickness and, accordingly, have different purposes. To make it easier to navigate, they are marked:

  • PN10 - single-layer pipes designed for cold water in pipelines with low pressure. Suitable for distributing polypropylene plumbing in private homes.
  • PN16 - single-layer pipes with a thicker wall. They can be used both for transporting cold water in systems with increased pressure (centralized), and for distributing the DHW system. Maximum allowable temperature+50°C.
  • PN20 - three-layer pipes with a fiberglass reinforcing layer. They can be used for the installation of a water supply system for transporting hot water, low-temperature heating systems. Maximum temperature+90°C.
  • PN25 - three-layer pipes reinforced with aluminum foil. They are mainly used for heating, they can be used for hot water supply, but this is not economically feasible: these are the most expensive pipes, and their qualities for hot water supply are excessive.

By colors there are pipes made of gray polypropylene and white. This is not displayed in any way on quality, so choose according to aesthetic preferences. Some firms (mostly German) paint their products green. If the wiring is hidden - in the walls or in the floor - you won’t find anything better, since the Germans are leaders in quality.

To make it easier to navigate by area of ​​application, colored stripes are applied along the PPR pipes. Those designed for cold water are marked in blue (light blue), those for hot water and heating are marked in red, universal ones are marked in orange. Some manufacturers have different markings. They mark products for heating and hot water in red, and do not apply markings to those intended for cold.

From the above, the following conclusions can be drawn: it is better to install a water supply system from polypropylene pipes in an apartment from PN 16 for cold water and PN20 for hot water. In a private house, you can get by with PN 10 for cold water and PN 20 for hot water.

Mounting Features

Single-layer PPR pipes PN 10 and PN 16 have a high coefficient of thermal expansion: with a temperature difference of 100 ° C, each meter becomes 1.5 cm longer. Even taking into account the fact that such a temperature difference in real life unattainable, this is a very large figure. To prevent this increase in length from destroying the water supply system, compensation loops (compensators) are provided in the system.

Types of expansion joints for polypropylene water pipes

If the length of the pipeline is small and cold water is diluted, the compensator can be omitted - the difference in length will be small, but it is advisable to make at least an elementary L-shaped compensator for hot water supply (see figure).

Connection principle

Polypropylene pipes have a lot of advantages, but one of the disadvantages is that they do not bend. Therefore, when installing a water supply system from polypropylene pipes, fittings are used for all branches and turns. These are special elements - tees, angles, adapters, couplings, etc. There are also taps, compensators, bypasses and other elements of the system, also made of polypropylene.

All these elements with pipes are connected by soldering. The material of both parts to be joined is heated until melted, then joined. As a result, the connection is monolithic, so the reliability of the polypropylene plumbing is very high. Read more about soldering and the tools needed for this.

To connect with other materials (metal), to switch to household appliances or plumbing fixtures, there are special fittings. On the one hand, they are completely polypropylene, on the other, they have a metal thread. The size of the thread and its type is selected according to the type of connected device.

System Planning

Due to the fact that the PPR pipes do not bend, it is necessary to develop a wiring diagram in such a way that there are as few detours and turns as possible. After all, they are all made using fittings, and they have a solid cost (compared to a pipe). Therefore, we try to optimize the wiring - to make as few turns, detours and bends as possible.

Serial (tee) connection

Installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes with a serial connection of consumers (plumbing and household appliances) is used in small systems. Usually they have 5-6 connection points. With such an organization of the water supply system, one pipe departs from the riser, it sequentially bypasses all connection points. In the case of PPR plumbing, all branches are made using tees, therefore this type is also called a tee.

Installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes by connecting consumers in series

The advantage of this system is that a small number of pipes are needed, and the minus is that the pressure on each branch drops. As a result, with one or two working points of analysis, the third, located further from the riser, the pressure may simply not be enough.

Parallel (collector) wiring

A parallel connection scheme is also called a collector. This is because after the tap from the riser, a special device is installed - a collector. This is an element with one input and some number of outputs. Available in polypropylene and metal. For plumbing, polypropylene manifolds are more suitable (and cheaper).

The connection scheme is such that a separate pipe stretches from each branch to each consumer (sometimes to a small group of consumers).

The advantage of such a system: the pressure at all points of water analysis is the same, the disadvantage is that a lot of pipes are required. Another plus is that if any branch fails, only one consumer does not work. The rest of the system functions normally. By the way, in order to be able to turn off individual devices, valves are installed at the outlet of the collector (usually ball valves, but if you need the ability to adjust the pressure, you can put a valve).

Plumbing and household appliances

In each of the methods of installing a water supply system from polypropylene pipes, a pipe is suitable for a specific consumer. There are two ways to connect to the system: flexible and rigid piping.

Hard connection is more reliable: PPR pipes and fittings have high strength. In addition, in this case there is only one thread - at the point of connection of the consumer. But this type of eyeliner requires high precision: the error can be only a few millimeters. It is difficult to achieve this when installing a polypropylene water supply system with your own hands, therefore flexible piping is more often used. Just be careful, in some cases it is impossible to use it: connect gas boilers or geysers, to bring water to, it is recommended only using hard liner.

Soft eyeliner, on the contrary, does not require high accuracy - errors are leveled by a flexible hose in a stainless steel braid or a hose that is used for or a dishwasher. Tubes are brought out approximately in the area where appliances are installed or plumbing is connected. It ends with an adapter for metal, to which a flexible hose is connected (it is connected to the device with its second end).

This option is less reliable, since a lot depends on the quality of the flexible eyeliner. Also, not the most pleasant moment is the presence of two threaded connections, and this is a potential place for a leak to appear.

Internal or external laying

One of the advantages of polypropylene plumbing is that it can be easily embedded in walls and floors. This material does not corrode, does not react with any materials, and does not conduct stray currents. In general, if the connection is made correctly, pipes can be hidden into the wall or into the floor without any problems. The whole catch is to make a quality connection.

To make sure that the assembled system does not leak, it is checked - it is carried out with excess pressure. There are special devices for this. They connect, pump water, increase pressure. Under this pressure, the water supply is left for several days. If no leaks were found, then at operating pressure everything will work for a long time and without problems.

Installation rules

Before starting work, it is necessary to draw up a diagram, mark on it all the necessary fittings and elements of the system (meters, filters, taps, etc.), put down the dimensions of the pipe sections between them. According to this scheme, we then consider what and how much is needed.

When purchasing a pipe, take it with some margin (a meter or two), fittings can be taken exactly according to the list. It does not hurt to agree on the possibility of a return or exchange. This may be necessary, since often in the process, the installation of a water supply system from polypropylene pipes throws up some surprises. They are mainly due to lack of experience, not to the material itself, and happen quite often even with masters.

In addition to pipes and fittings, you will also need clips that attach everything to the walls. They are installed on the pipeline after 50 cm, as well as near the end of each branch. These clips are plastic, there are metal - staples and clamps with a rubber gasket.

For open laying of pipelines in technical rooms it is more convenient to use brackets, for better aesthetics - for open laying of pipes in the bathroom or in the kitchen - they use plastic clips of the same color as the pipes themselves.

Now a little about assembly rules. The system itself can be assembled immediately by cutting pipe sections of the required length, constantly referring to the diagram. So it is more convenient to solder. But, with a lack of experience, this is fraught with errors - you must accurately measure and do not forget to add 15-18 millimeters (depending on the diameter of the pipes) that go into the fitting.

Therefore, it is more rational to draw a system on the wall, designate all fittings and elements. You can even attach them and trace the contours. This will make it easier to evaluate the system itself and identify shortcomings and errors, if any. This approach more correct, as it gives greater accuracy.

Next, the pipes are cut as needed, fragments of several elements are connected on the floor or desktop. Then the finished fragment is set in place. This sequence of actions is the most rational.


And about how to quickly and correctly cut pipe sections of the desired length and not be mistaken.