POLYPROPYLENE PRESSURE PIPING SYSTEMS
PP-R and PP-RCT pipes come in metric sizes ranging from 16 to 710 mm and IPS schedule 80 sizes ranging from 1/2 to 6 in. The minimum hydrostatic pressure ratings are 160 psi at 73ºF (1105 kPa at 23ºC) and 100 psi at 180ºF (690 kPa at 82ºC) for plumbing applications, but pipes with different dimension ratios (DRs) can have higher or lower pressure ratings. Consult the specific PP-R or PP-RCT pipe manufacturer's literature and listings for appropriate pressure ratings. PP-R and PP-RCT pipes are sold in straight lengths. PP-R is also available in coils for smaller diameters and specific applications.
PP-R
Definition: According to the definition found within industry standard ASTM F2389, PP-R means polypropylene random copolymer. PP-R is a copolymer of propylene and at least one comonomer, where the propylene is more than 50% of the composition. PP-R piping products are rated for continuous operation at 180ºF (82Cº) temperature, with pressure ratings dependent on their wall type (SDR). PP-R pipes also may include reinforcement layers for benefits such as reducing longitudinal thermal expansion/contraction.
Overview: PP-R is a high-temperature plastic pressure piping system first used for plumbing and hydronic heating in the 1980's in Europe and introduced to North America in the 2000s. PP-R pipes also provide resistance to highly acidic and basic solutions. Other uses include industrial and food-grade piping. Joints can be heat-fused. The high heat and/or pressure performance makes PP-R pipes suitable for demanding applications, such as pressure piping (plumbing, hydronics) in commercial high-rise buildings.
PP-RCT
Definition: According to the definition found within industry standard ASTM F2389, PP-RCT means polypropylene random copolymer with modified crystallinity and temperature resistance. PP-RCT is a copolymer of propylene and at least one comonomer, where the propylene is more than 50% of the composition. PP-RCT piping products are rated for continuous operation at 180ºF (82Cº) temperature, with pressure rating depending on their wall type (SDR). PP-RCT pipes also may include reinforcement layers for benefits such as reducing longitudinal thermal expansion/contraction.
Overview: PP-RCT is a high-temperature plastic pressure piping system first used for plumbing and hydronic heating in the 2000's in Europe and introduced to North America in the 2010s. PP-RCT pipes also provide resistance to highly acidic and basic solutions. Other uses include industrial and food-grade piping. Joints can be heat-fused. The high heat and/or pressure performance makes PP-RCT pipes suitable for demanding applications, such as pressure piping (plumbing, hydronics) in commercial high-rise buildings.
PP-R and PP-RCT Advantages
- Safety of potable water and long-term reliability
- Resistance to corrosion, tuberculation, deposits
- Chlorine and chloramine resistance
- Lightweight, easy to transport
- No scrap value, avoiding jobsite theft
- Durability and toughness to survive jobsite installations
- No flame, glue or solders are used for joining, heat-fused joints
- Available in wide range of sizes
- Natural Insulator, low thermal conductivity
- Professional installed appearance
- Hot- and cold-water plumbing distribution, residential and commercial
- Hydronic piping and distribution (radiators, fan coils, etc.)
- Heating and chilled water piping
- Suitable for many industrial and process piping applications
- Food processing
- Compressed Air
- TN-57 - Proper Integration of Copper Tubing and Components with PP-R Piping Materials for Plumbing Applications
- Recommendation H – Direct Connection of Plastic Piping Materials to Tankless Water Heaters
- Presentation: Plastic Pressure Piping Materials for Plumbing & Mechanical Applications
- ASTM F2389 - Standard Specification for Pressure-rated Polypropylene (PP) Piping Systems
- CSA B137.11 - Polypropylene (PP-R) Pipe and Fittings for Pressure Applications