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Advantages of Kitec XPA Pipe

Kitec XPA pipe is a multipurpose pressure pipe that uniquely unites the advantages of both metal and plastic. Made of an aluminum tube laminated to interior and exterior layers of plastic, Kitec provides a composite piping system for a wide range of applications, often beyond the scope of metal or plastic alone. And unlike copper and steel materials, Kitec is non-corroding, and resists most acids, salt solutions, alkali, fats and oils.

Corrosion Free

Kitec’s inner and outer layers consist cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), offering perhaps the best chemical and corrosion resistance of any plastic used in the manufacture of plumbing pipes. The polyolefin family of plastics is renowned for it’s toughness, long service life and resistance to deterioration in the most extreme environments.

On the other hand, when metal or copper pipes are exposed to aggressive soil and water conditions, they are susceptible to corrosion and pitting. Kitec’s inner and outer layer of plastic is unaffected by corrosive soil or aggressive water. That’s why you’ll see Kitec being used to re-pipe homes where metal pipes have failed.

Applications

Kitec can be used both indoors or outdoors, encased in concrete, concealed in walls, floors, ceilings or surface mounted. It can be used for underfloor heating, ice-melt systems for sidewalks and driveways, air conditioning systems, compressed air and industrial process piping.

Unique Construction

Kitec pipe consists of an aluminum tube laminated between two layers of polyethylene. An aluminum strip is formed, overlapped, then ultrasonically welded. Layers of polyethylene are then applied with a special adhesive, forming a bond with the aluminum tube. The result is a pipe that will not rust, corrode or tuberculate.

Advantages of a Hybrid System

The aluminum tube provides a complete oxygen barrier and prevents permeation. Kitec will not conduct electricity or create static electricity. Also, the aluminum tube allows the pipe to be located with a metal detector.

Excellent Hydraulics

The smooth interior polyethylene wall provides a continuous Hazen Williams coefficient of C=l50.

Light, Yet Strong

The composite construction of this lightweight pipe provides the strength and durability necessary to operate at pressures ranging from 90 to 300 psi (620 to 2,000 kPa) within a continuous temperature range up to 210° F (99° C). Yet Kitec's polyethylene/aluminum composition is so light that a 600 ft. (200 m) coil of 1/2" pipe weighs only 41 lbs. (1 9 kg).

Many Applications

High density polyethylene can be used in applications up to 140° F (60° C). Crosslinked polyethylene allows Kitec to be used with temperatures up to 210° F (99° C).

Flexible, Yet Rigid

Kitec's polyethylene/aluminum combination provides excellent flexibility for ease of handling and installation. The aluminum allows for ease of bending and provides a measure of structural integrity. Kitec will retain the desired shape and maintain straight runs, offering a neat and professional installation.

Easy to Install Connectors

Brass fittings in male and female adapters, tees, 90° elbows and couplings are available for Kitec pipe. These fittings have two O-rings on the insert portion and a split ring and nut on the outside. The pipe is beveled on the inside using the Kitec beveling tool, and the fitting is pushed in. The split ring is compressed by tightening the outside nut, providing a watertight, dependable seal.

Information Source: IPEX, Inc.