PEX is a water plumbing system made from high density polyethylene tubes. particular PEX fittings are employed to link PEX tubing. PEX tubing is a flexible material that is simpler and less expensive to put in, is resistant to corrosion and necessitates less fittings than earlier plumbing systems.

The resilient pipes are not made brittle by low temps. Polyethylene pipes are less costly than metal pipes and are easier to install because they do not use as many fittings as metal or rigid plastic schemes. Since soldering is not utilised with PEX schemes there are no nasty fumes or the risks associated with utilising a torch.

PEX tubing is stored on spools. Reels weigh less than copper or rigid plastic pipe making them less pricy to ship and simpler to store. When used in an Installation, PEX tubing can be wound off directly from the spool and does not need coupling fittings. This saves the time and expense of running pipe. PEX tubing can be flexed 90 degrees eliminating the need for elbow fittings. PEX tube does not need to be soldered so there are no unhealthy fumes and dangers posed by employing a torch.

There are a number of joining methods some of which are proprietary. But basically the fitting is placed either over or into the tube and a ring is crimped on to the tube or fittings. Rings can be built of plastic, copper or stainless steel. There are proprietary joining systems which require specific tools and fittings.

Three basic tools are required for the standard crimping method when working with PEX: a main crimping tool, a pipe cutter, and a de-crimping tool. The pipe cutter tool cuts the tube before putting it into the fitting. There are a mixture of main crimping tools available which can crimp 1/2″ or 3/4″ pipes. A de-crimping tool is employed to remove the copper crimp ring from the tube and fitting.

The most familiar material used to make fittings for PEX plumbing is brass. However, you can acquire fittings made from different metals and even plastic. Fittings have ridges that when crimped make a high-pressure seal.

Using the system of PEX fittings in addition to PEX tubing has distinct advantages over metal and plastic piping. It is less costly than rigid plastic and copper piping . It can be installed right from the reels. It calls for less fittings. It last longer because it is not vulnerable to corroding.