Como PexALPex
5 Layer Strength & Durability
Como PexALPex is an innovative pipe able to respond mainly to the distribution of hot and cold drinking water, heating and cooling systems, compressed air installations, industrial installations and various other applications, whose conditions are harmonized with the corresponding European and Greek regulations such as EN 21003 and EN 15875.
Como PexALPex five-layer pipes combine the advantages of synthetic materials and especially cross-linked polyethylene, such as resistance to high temperatures, reduced friction, resistance to oxidizing effects, resistance to various corrosive chemicals and suitability for sanitary applications, together with the advantages of aluminium, such as retention of the desired shape after bending, imperm-eability to oxygen and low thermal expansion.
The result is a product consisting of different layers of materials that, when connected together, acquire improved properties compared to classic metal pipes.
Interplast’s experience in PE-X pipes, the stability of the respective suppliers and its choice of premium raw materials, its long-term specialization in multilayer pipes of large cross-sections combined with the know-how of the subsidiary ELVIOM brass industry, guarantee a product that will contributes to the upgrading of constructions.
Pipe Layers
Outer Layer
Made of PE-Xb which provides mechanical, electrical and chemical protection of the aluminium layer from impacts, abrasions, cement and other substances contained in the ground.
In high-density polyethylene, double bonds are created, so that a large number of them are joined with silane molecules to form a homogeneous three-dimensional lattice structure of high molecular weight.
Intermediate Layer
It is made of an aluminium alloy, a complete oxygen barrier providing excellent mechanical strength and flexibility during installation.
Adhesive Layers
An additive layer which contributes to the connection of the intermediate aluminium layer with the inner and outer PE-Xb layers
Inner Layer
The inner pipe layer made of PE-Xb (NSF-approved raw material), is approved for drinking water according to European and American regulations, which is binding with Interplast in the exports of Como Pex in the United States of America and Canada. PE-Xb material is characterized by an extremely smooth surface that reduces hydraulic resistance.
PE-X naturally has excellent behaviour at high temperatures pressures, improved impact and chemical resistance as well as a very long-life cycle.
Properties
Excellent thermal propertie
They are designed for a lifetime of more than 50 years, at temperatures up to 95°C and operating pressures from 6 to 10bar. Temperature peaks of 110°C at an operating pressure of 4bar.
Corrosion resistant
Como PexALPex pipes show excellent resistance to corrosion, even in areas where the water is in high mineral content, remaining unchanged over time. Unlike metal pipes, they do not show any electrochemical corrosion. Also, the high velocity of the water does not cause damage to the inner surface.
Chemical resistance
The material is resistant to most chemicals, even at high temperatures. Chemicals that can cause deterioration, rupture of ordinary plastic pipes do not affect Como PexALPex.
Mechanical strength
Como PexALPex pipes shows high mechanical impact resistance. For example, cross-linked polyethylene is used as a protective cover in bearings for transporting very sharp objects in hard metal industries.
Low coefficient of friction
The material’s structure and the smooth texture of the surface, ensure low hydraulic resistances resulting in low resistance, and small pressure drop in the pipelines. For this reason, water pumps of lower power and energy consumption can be used, compared to metal pipes.
Flexibility and shape stability
The combination of cross-linked polyethylene and aluminium, guarantees excellent bending behaviour, so that the pipe maintains the desired configuration after bending.
Thermal expansion
The thermal linear expansion is about 8 times lower than plastic pipes and is completely comparable to that of metal pipes.
Low weight
The pipes are extremely light compared to metal pipes: their weight is 1/3 of copper pipe and 1/10 steel pipe.
Soundproofing ComoPexAlPex system works silently. The properties of the plastic and the adhesive layers, prevent the transmission of waves and hydraulic hammer unlike metal pipes.
Oxygen barrier
The aluminium layer is a permanent oxygen barrier, hence corrosion of the metal parts in closed heating and cooling systems is avoiding.
Thermal conductivity
The thermal conductivity of the tube is 0.42-0.52 W/m·K, about 900 times lower than the copper. This is extremely important to ensure temperature losses. In addition, the insulation ensures water flow speed, up to 1m/sec.
Clean and non-toxic
Como PexALPex does not contain toxic substances. Sanitary and toxic analyses, approved that it can be used for drinking water use. The pipes passed tests of official institutes (General State Chemistry, WRAS-NSF Great Britain) regarding taste, smell, growth of microorganisms, extraction of substances and metals of public health concern (cadmium, arsenic, etc.).
