Thermal Insulation
Natural resistance to heat transfer makes PP-R and PP-RCT a smarter choice than traditional metals. Heat loss or heat gain can be reduced by as much as 50% if bare metal pipe is upgraded to bare PESTAN pipe. If there is a need for insulation, both space and material can be saved. Less insulation makes our piping system operational at an equal or more efficient level than other metal systems under the same code. A value of thermal resistance provides a level of natural insulation to the pipe. Thermal conductivity of both PP-R and PP-RCT material is 1.66 BTU*in/(hr*ft²*°F).
Furthermore, the amount of insulation needed to prevent scalding can be reduced because of the natural insulation value of PESTAN piping systems. Natural insulation contributes to the elimination of injury risk if the pipes are left exposed. Fittings have greater thickness of the walls, reducing need for insulation in most of the hot water applications. The following table shows minimum insulation thickness regulated by thermal transmission coefficient and it refers to pipelines for hot water transportation. Required insulation thickness for HVAC systems is listed in IECC and ASHRAE energy codes as follows:
With the use of PESTAN pipe, the level of moisture on the pipes for chilled water and domestic cold-water applications will be significantly lowered. Substitutive insulation and vapor barrier might be necessary in cases of extreme temperatures or humidity. For insulation requirements in plenums please click here.
Sound Insulation
Polypropylene has sound absorption properties that weaken pressure billow and water flow noise. Unlike metal pipes that carry sounds, the material dampens noises because of the integrated natural sound insulation. Hammer effects are canceled, enhancing the quality of living for occupants.