PEX-Al-PEX - Use standard PEX crimping tool?

[Vince]

I need to install several exterior piping runs that will be totally exposed to sunlight. I plan to use 1/2" PEX-Al-PEX tubing and standard low-lead brass crimp fittings.

Can I use my standard PEX copper-ring crimp tool or need to purchase one of the specialty PEX-Al-PEX crimp tools that I have seen around?

Thanks!
Vince

 

[frodo]

The PEX Clamp System is the most simple and most commonly used by DIYs, however this system is also popular with professionals in certain areas of the United States. The PEX Clamp Tool is compatible with Rifeng Crimp Fittings, and utilizes Stainless Steel Clamps to secure a successful connection. The Clamp Tool is perhaps the easiest to use and the most economical. The PEX Clamp System can be used with any standard ASTM size PEX pipe, with the exception of PEX-AL-PEX. The PEX Clamp Tool can be utilized with PEX ranging in size from 3/8" to 1".

PEX Crimp Tool

The PEX Crimp System is similar to the PEX Clamp Tool in that it is also compatible with Rifeng Crimp Fittings. The main difference between the PEX Clamp Tool and the PEX Crimp tool is the rings that are utilized when securing connections. Unlike the PEX Clamp Tool, the PEX Crimp Tool utilizes Copper Crimp Rings to secure a successful connection. The PEX Crimp System is also easy to use and an economical option when choosing a PEX system. The PEX Crimp System can be used with any standard ASTM size PEX pipe, with the exception of PEX-AL-PEX. The PEX Clamp Tool is compatible with PEX sizes ranging in size from 3/8" to 1". The PEX Crimp Tool can be purchased in kits that can handle 3/8" to 3/4" PEX or models dedicated to a single size of up to 1" PEX.

Viega PEX Press Tool

The Viega PEX Press System is growing in popularity with professionals across the country. The Viega PEX Press Tool is compatible with Viega Press fittings and utilizes PEX Press Sleeves to secure a successful connection. The Viega PEX Press Tool is known for its ease of use and strong connections. The Press technology is unique to Viega and has been used for many years. It is commonly used with Viega FostaPEX Tubing, but is compatible with any standard ASTM size PEX pipe. The Viega PEX Press Tool is compatible with PEX sizes ranging in size from 3/8" to 1" and can be purchased in Kits that can handle 3/8" to 1" PEX or models dedicated to a single size of up to 1-1/2" PEX.



may i ask, what are you running 1/2'' to ?

you are aware that 1/2'' pex is measured as OD and not ID correct ?

to get a true 1/2'' ID, you need to use 3/4 pex ...depends on what you are running to


volume, volume, volume, volume you want volume just a suggestion


pex should not be exposed to sunlight...

warning warning warning

 

[Vince]

Thanks for your reply, but now I am REALLY confused! Some tool suppliers, such as IWISS, tout their copper crimp tools (https://www.iwiss.com/ft-1530b-copper-fitting-crimper/) as compatible with both PEX and PEX-Al-PEX with no changes, which is why I asked my original question.

Can it be that some tools are suitable while others are not? Thanks!

BTW, I am running to some hose bibbs scattered around a very large deck. And everything that I have read from PEX manufacturers provide PEX-Al-PEX as suitable for exposed external use.

Vince

 

[frodo]

run some 3/4 pvc instead. pex does not like sun

 

[Vince]

I was trying to avoid PVC if I could for this particular task. Access to the underside of most of the deck is problematical. Therefore the runs need to be external but will need to have several bends which are neither 45 or 90 degrees, which would require multiple messy fitting assemblies at each of these bends. Basically I was looking to something that would look "clean", and PVC will not do it.

Vince

 

[frodo]

I need to install several exterior piping runs that will be totally exposed to sunlight. I plan to use 1/2" PEX-Al-PEX tubing and standard low-lead brass crimp fittings.

BTW, I am running to some hose bibbs scattered around a very large deck. And everything that I have read from PEX manufacturers provide PEX-Al-PEX as suitable for exposed external use.


Please provide the link of the manufacture that recommends pex al pex for direct sunlight application

 

[Vince]

Here is one that I found quickly (http://www.viega.us/7143.htm). Nearly all of the manufacturers have similiar products. Here is the exact phrase - "while simultaneously extending UV protection".

Vince

 

[frodo]

http://www.viega.us/xbcr/en-us/Viega_PureFlow_PEX.pdf


1.5.2

 

[Vince]

Viega PUREFLOW PEX is standard PEX, not P-A-P.

Vince

 

[frodo]

letter from pex.



believe the company or not, you have been notified

 

[Vince]

Thank you! I do stand corrected.

I seem to be running out of good options.

Vince

 

[Vince]

I was considering using Viega's FostaPEX, which is completely sheathed with a 0.010" thick layer of aluminum and this is what the company wrote back

-----------------------------

Although FostaPEX tubing has an extended UV resistance, it would still need to be protected from long term UV exposure. I have included a screen shot from our ViegaPEX Water System Installation manual that states do not install FostPEX where it will permanently exposed to sunlight. Please do not hesitate to let us know if there are any additional questions or if we can be of further assistance.

(could not get the image to post)

Kind regards,

Viega
Jason Allison, CPDT
Associate Technical Support Specialist
Viega LLC
(877) 843-4262 x 350

-------------------------

This makes NO sense whatsoever, since a wrap of 0.002" of aluminum foil completely protects standard PEX tubing from any UV degradation. I think that since other companies had such bad experiences with PEX earlier that Viega is just covering their A$$! (on the advice of their lawyers)

Vince