PRINTEX was designed for processing by pipe extrusion method and it is recommended for economic production of pipes (PEX) used predominantly in building services pipework systems, hydronic radiant heating and cooling systems and domestic water piping.
Global population growth and ageing infrastructure have increased the need for durable, dependable, and sustainable plumbing and heating pipe systems and PEX pipe offers exceptional toughness, durability, and temperature resistance.
In brief, PRINTEX is a crosslinked high density polyethylene (HDPE) and it is classified as a PEX-b.
processes used to produce PEX
A Peroxide or “Engel” method
HDPE polymer is melted, creating free radicals and the cross-linking of molecules occur at temperatures that exceed the polymer’s decomposition temperature.
B Silane or Moisture Cure method
Cross-linking of the HDPE polymer molecules is done after the extrusion process using a catalyst and by exposing the PEX tubing to water (steam bath). This is probably the most common manufacturing process, and PEX-b pipe is made using this process.
C Irradiation or Cold Cross-linking method
After extrusion, the pipe is exposed to an electron radiation beam. The radiation allows the breaking of existing bonds between the polymer’s molecules and initiates the cross-linking process.PEX-b pipe has the highest bursting pressure compared to PEX-a and a similar or better resistance to oxidation – a very important factor for plumbing installations. Furthermore, PEX-b pipe has been in use for over 40 years with no known issues.
