February 23, 2010
Polysulfone PEX fittings – Excellent alternative to brass Plastic crimp fittings are gaining popularity with contractors these days for many reasons, but two stand out above the others. Cost is a big incentive, but the two most popular reasons to switch from brass crimp fittings are the anti-corrosion and lead-free features of plastic. Some regions are cursed with harsh water conditions that “eat up” the brass fittings. California and Vermont have recently restricted plumbers to using lead-free brass and, like fashion and other trends, the lead-free movement is predicted to sweep across the nation.
Polysulfone PEX fittings are constructed of Polysulfone (PSU) resin, which is lightweight, yet extremely durable. Polysulfone fittings do not corrode, rust or change the taste of water. They are lead free and are resistant to chlorine and stress fractures which could be caused by crimping. These plastic fittings can withstand extreme temperatures ranging from -140 degrees Fahrenheit to 300 degrees Fahrenheit
Every fitting has a strength and weakness. Like Achilles, PSU has a weakness too. PSU is susceptible to Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). When using products made with PSU, avoid letting the products come in contact with substances such as bug sprays, solvents and certain all-purpose cleaners. This should not be an issue for most PEX fittings because the fittings are primarily installed behind walls. Polysulfone PEX fittings meet NSF, ASTM and CSA standards.
A Bad Taste in the Mouth
The first thing that a lot of “old school” plumbers think about when they see a new plastic crimp fitting is the old Polybutylene fitting from the eighties. This is perfectly understandable, since that fitting system was involved in perhaps the largest class action lawsuit in history. What people need to realize is that this new fitting is more advanced than its predecessor from over twenty years ago. You can hit it with a hammer and it will react the same way as a brass fitting, except with a lot more bounce (watch out for the hammer and secure the fitting to the ground).
The old plastic fitting was made of Polyoxymethylene (POM) resin, which was susceptible to chlorine and stress fractures. The reason the fittings failed was this: Tiny chlorine ions sneaked in between the barbs of the fitting and settled inside the stress fractures caused by the crimping. These concentrated chlorine ions were able to weaken the fitting from the inside out.
The technology has advanced and the new plastic is here to stay. A great way to describe the new system is with the old saying, “This ain’t your Grandma’s Cadillac”.
For more information on this product, visit http://iplumb.tv. JP Scherer is the Regional Sales Manager for iPlumb. iPlumb is a nationwide supplier of PEX plumbing and radiant heating systems. For the largest selection and competitive pricing on PEX plumbing and radiant heating systems, visit http://iplumb.tv/. For additional information, call (800)842-2543 or email jpscherer@me.com.
iPlumb offers Flair-It fittings, Flair-It PRO fittings, Flair-It Plus PEX manifolds, BestPEX brass PEX fittings, polysulfone PEX fittings, BestPEX tubing, SafePEX tubing, radiant heat PEX tubing, PEX risers, PEX crimpers, stainless steel PEX clamps, copper PEX rings, PEX installation items, PROBite fittings, the Eichler Valve and much more. iPlumb stays in touch with the latest trends in plumbing and is constantly adding new and innovative products.
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Oklahoma City, OK 73149
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