Download - Polypipe

Polybutene Pipe:
Flexible & Sustainable
At the heart of our systems is our commitment to
Polybutene pipe. Unlike a number of other plumbing
manufacturers, we choose Polybutene to create
the most flexible and efficient pipes and plumbing
systems available. Polybutene pipe is ideal for
both domestic hot and cold water plumbing and
heating systems, offering exceptional durability and
long-term performance, which has seen it become
the preferred material choice for today’s building
projects.
The most important characteristic of Polybutene is
its natural flexibility, allowing you to bend, curve and
manipulate the pipe into even the tightest of spaces.
Polybutene is the most malleable plastic used in the
manufacture of piping systems.
The table below shows the modulus of
elasticity or rigidity of Polybutene compared
with a range of piping systems:
Flexural Elasticity Modulus (MPa) Method ISO 178
PB-1
PEX
Polybutene pipe has good resistance to freezing
temperatures, maintaining long-term durability in
heating and water applications. This, combined
with the pipe’s elasticity, means that if water is
subjected to freezing temperatures, the result will be
a reduced possibility of burst pipes.
Polybutene pipe has low thermal conductivity. Its coefficient
of thermal expansion is 1.3 x 10-4m/m°C. It
accommodates expansion by its natural flexibility.
Our plumbing systems give better performance than
rigid pipe systems in terms of low noise transmission
and low water hammer effect.
The table below highlights the sound
velocity of Polybutene pipe compared with
other materials:
620
Sound Velocity (Meters per Second)
800
PB-1*
450
CPVC
2,350
PEX
600
Copper
3,900
PE-RT
550-650
Quiet
Noisy
PP-R
800
PVC-C
3,500
Flexible
Rigid
*PB-1 is the chemical name for Polybutene
Within the manufacturing cycle Polybutene doesn’t
require chemical or radiation cross linking, which
reduces the number of production processes, leading
to faster and more efficient manufacturing.
Polypipe Building Products is a
member of the Polybutene Piping
Systems Association (P.B.P.S.A),
which is a recognised association
of companies whose aim is to
promote the features, benefits
and best practice installation
techniques of Polybutene pipe
systems, as well as providing
a wide range of technical
information and support
4