FloPlast PE-X Barrier Pipe 15mm x 25m White

[ramonford]

FloPlast PE-X Barrier Pipe 15mm x 25m White

I am considering using the above pipe to connect an external cold water mains tap to the existing 15mm copper installation. I would use a take off from the mains using a self cutting tap with check valve connection and make all the joints using standard brass connectors
I have read up about the FloPlast pipe and some people appear to have had trouble with it. As Screwfix are offering 25M for £16.99, it is attractive to me, but are there any known problems with this pipe and when using brass compression fittings. Should I use pipe inserts when connecting the pipe to brass fittings? Are there any other problems or tips that I should be aware of.

Thanks for any help, as these are difficult times and I would appreciate any advise as I am a learner in plumbing.

 

[Simon F]

Hello,:welcome:
use the correct inserts, how far is it going?
if using plastic pipe why not use push fittings?
a self cutting tap will only give a restricted flow
use copper pipe where subject to uv light (outside)

 

[gavinwilson]

self cutting give nowt but trouble

 

[zzzjim]

Steel cutting blade in self cutting - rusts up blocking flow even more later

(unless they've changed the design )

 

[ramonford]

Hello,:welcome:
use the correct inserts, how far is it going?
if using plastic pipe why not use push fittings?
a self cutting tap will only give a restricted flow
use copper pipe where subject to uv light (outside)

Many thanks for the reply.
The pipe run is about 15meters and will have 6 elbows
Very nervous about push fittings when used in garage and then to outside tap.
Have noted all the comments on self cutters so I will insert a T connector

What is your opinion on the use of FloPlast PE-X Barrier Pipe together with brass fittings

l
​

 

[Guest123]

Ramonford, even before you even consider doing what you plan to do, I suggest that you read the installation instructions from Floplast with regards to their push fit system. I'd personally recommend that JG Speedfit is much better and more user friendly for a novice. Please be aware that each manufacturer has their own fittings and inserts appropriate to their own system and are not meant to be interchangeable between different manufacturers systems.

Really, if you need to know if an insert is required when you're connecting to a water main, you are heading for a flood! LOL
Do some research first. JG Speedfit have a terrific installation guides for the diy gurus and novices alike on their website and these guides can be downloaded for future reference. These guides are for the JG Speedfit system only.

Best of luck with your project.

 

[ramonford]

Thanks to and Gavin and zzzjim for the advise on the self cutters. I will not now be using this but will use a T connector.

If you can find the time I would like to hear you opinion on the use of FloPlast PE-X Barrier Pipe together with brass fittings

 

[PlumbBobBob]

nothing at all wrong with using brass fittings on plastic pipe of any make as long as inserts from same manufacturer as pipe are used. and copper olives. imho.

 

[Guest123]

If you use brass compression fittings on ANY brand of push fit, ensure that they have a deep slip and not the shallow slip found in some cheap brands. Kuterlite 600 are good for this. The reason is that the fitting must have enough slip in it to accept an insert, then the compression olive and the insert itself takes up 2mm of slip into the fitting. If you use compression fittings, make sure that in accordance with manufacturers specs, that you use soft copper compression olives and not the brass ones.

 

[ramonford]

Thank you every body who has replied to my question.

So much good sound information, and very quick replies. this is a great site.

Yes I am a novice 1st class, but I am learning fast thanks to you all.

So many fit falls for the novice, I will never say a plumber is expensive again, it's just at the moment things are a little tight and DIY is necessary

 

[Simon F]

The pipe run is about 15meters and will have 6 elbows
Very nervous about push fittings

how tight do the bends need to be, if its in the garage then maybe not to important for looks.
could you limit the use of fitting by having a large radius bend in the plastic pipe?

 

[ramonford]

how tight do the bends need to be, if its in the garage then maybe not to important for looks.
could you limit the use of fitting by having a large radius bend in the plastic pipe?

Thanks for the tip.

Yes I have already looked at this and don't think I can reduce the number of bends as all those used are for going around other pies on the garage wall.

 

[Guest123]

Ramonford, the easiest way to use push fit fittings is this:

Cut the pipe square with PEX pipe cutters, NOT a hacksaw.
Push the insert onto the end of the pipe in a clockwise twisting motion.
Mark full slip on the pipe or use the marking on the pipe if you have cut it for full slip and insert the fitting to the pipe half way, then push it fully home. Twist the nut to tighten the grab ring and give it a short tug.
Switch the water on slowly and watch the fittings as the pipe will move slightly under pressure as the grab rings tighten. Check all the fiitings are fully locked and the nuts are tightened.

Keep flux, acid based cleaners and paint well away from PEX pipe and push fit fittings, as anything acidic will destroy the O ring. I've seen fittings blow off because flux was inside them through careless installation.

It's not rocket science, just take your time and make sure you use an insert and obtain full slip on every joint.

Let us know how you get on and post a few pics