PE-RT tubing comes in nominal sizes ranging from 1/4 to 6 in. copper tube size (CTS). PE-RT tubing is SDR9 with standard hydrostatic pressure ratings of 200 psi at 73°F (1379 kPa at 23°C) and 100 psi at 180°F (690 kPa at 82°C). Consult the specific PE-RT manufacturer's literature and listings for appropriate pressure ratings. PE-RT tubing and pipe are sold in coils and straight lengths.
Definition: PE-RT is a polyethylene (PE) resin in which the molecular architecture has been designed such that a sufficient number of tie chains are incorporated to allow operation at elevated or raised temperatures (RT). Tie chains "tie" together the crystalline structures in the polymer, resulting in improved properties such as elevated temperature strength and performance, chemical resistance and resistance to slow crack growth.
Overview: PE-RT is a high-temperature flexible plastic pressure pipe with a 35-year history of successful use in the European market with extensive testing for durability and material performance. It was first introduced in North America in 2003 and is used in aluminum composite (multilayer) barrier tubing and solid wall tubing and pipe. Applications include plumbing, water service, hydronic heating and cooling, snow and ice melting and ground source geothermal piping systems. PE-RT is approved in all model plumbing and mechanical codes across the United States. .
PE-RT: Advantages
- Safety of potable water and long-term reliability
- Resistance to corrosion, tuberculation, deposits
- Chlorine and chloramine resistance
- Flexibility to speed installations
- Freeze-break resistance
- Lightweight, easy to transport
- Noise and water hammer resistance
- Low scrap value, avoiding jobsite theft
- Durability and toughness to survive jobsite installations
- No flame used for joining, with many fitting and joining options
- Recyclable, eco-friendly material
- Heat Fusible for virtually leak-free performance
PE-RT Applications
- Hot- and cold-water plumbing distribution, residential and commercial
- Radiant heating and cooling systems (floors, walls, ceilings)
- Hydronic piping and distribution (radiators, fan coils, etc.)
- Chilled water piping
- Outdoor snow and ice melting
- Turf conditioning/pitch heating
- District Heating/Cooling
- Water Service Lines (CTS and IPS)
- Geothermal ground loops (vertical boreholes, horizontal layouts)