Do I Need an Expander Tool for PEX?
Cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX, has become popular with plumbing projects mainly because it is flexible, durable, and easy to fix. Based on the types of PEX plumbing, you may ask yourself whether you need an expander tool for the project. Although required for some kinds of PEX, this gear can significantly affect your work and may be worth considering its acquisition. This article will elaborate on the PEX expander tool, types of PEX, and proper uses of the expander tool for adequate plumbing.
What is the PEX Expander Tool?
A PEX expander or PEX expansion tool is equipment comprised solely of expanding the end of a PEX pipe. Therefore, this expander tool, such as the iCrimp Expansion Tool, is designed mainly for PEX-A tubing, the type of PEX that is most flexible. The pipe slides over a fitting with the help of a pipe expander tool, which then shrinks to create a tight friction fit around the pipe. This method takes advantage of the shape memory characteristic of PEX-A, which provides a snug fit around the fitting.
Types of PEX
- PEX-A: Famous for its high flexibility and exceptional ability to regain shape, it is appropriate for widening links.
- PEX-B: A little less flexible than PEX-A, but more rigid and cheaper. Generally employs crimp or cinch type of connection.
- PEX-C: Of them all, this is the least flexible but still the best performer. It frequently applies crimp or cinch connections.
Connection Methods
How you join PEX pipes depends on the PEX type and the application for which you need the PEX pipes. Common methods include:
- Expansion: An expander tool pulls the pipe and slides it over the fitting. This method is best suited for PEX-A.
- Crimping: Crimping tools such as the iCrimp IWS-1807CN PEX Crimping Tool Kit and rings create a secure connection. They can be used with all types of PEX.
- Cinch (Clamp): These include a cinch tool and clamps for making connections. They are applicable to all kinds of PEX.
- Push-Fit: No tools are necessary; the fittings are into the pipe using a tool such as the iCrimp PEX Push to Connect Fitting, and force is applied to attach them. It is with any widening PEX type.
Read more: Best PEX Connection Method
How can a PEX Expander Tool be Used?
- Secure Connections: This method, like the expansion method, forms long-term stability and is less likely to leak connections.
- Flexibility: PEX-A is easy to install and can be used in small spaces where pipes bend in correspondence with other pipes.
- Consistent Seals: This efficient expander tool provides uniform expansion and contracting results in well-made and equal joints.
Advantages of Using a PEX Expander Tool
- Efficiency: This makes the expander tool installation process more efficient.
- Reliability: Expansion connections are great, and they do not leak or cause problems in the long run.
- Temperature Performance: PEX-A, when cross-linked, looks like the common PEX with expansion capability and can be used in many climate conditions and tests.
When Do You Need a PEX Expander Tool?
Essential for PEX-A
If you use PEX-A tubing, an expander tool will be handy. The tool must be applied to achieve the best characteristics of PEX-A, namely shape memory and flexibility, to achieve sound joints without leaks. The expansion method is more effective, especially in colder regions where PEX-A's flexibility is a significant advantage.
Optional Only in Exceptional Cases for PEX-B and for PEX-C
No expander tool is required while installing PEX-B and PEX-C. These types of PEX generally employ crimp, cinch, or push-fit connection systems as the sealing technique. Despite offering contingent connections, these methods do not use the shape memory of PEX A.
Guidelines for Using a Pex Expander Tool
- Cut the Pipes Cleanly: Make sure the edges are straight so there will not be any problems with the fit connections.
- Deburr the Edges: Clear all burrs in layers to facilitate the expansion process as well as the fit of the expansion tools.
- Select the Right Tool: PEX-A piping should use a professional, high-caliber PEX expander instrument. The Pex Expander Tool is an ideal example.
- Expand Evenly: During the pipe's expansion, you have to rotate the tool so that even expansion creates a good seal.
- Check the Connection: Once fitted, the pipe should conform tightly to the shape of the fitting or the connection made.
Final Thought
Thus, the necessity of a PEX expander tool depends on the PEX you have at your disposal. For PEX-A piping, an expander tool is necessary to make the best and safest connections for pipe fittings. If at all, an expander tool is unnecessary when using PEX-B or PEX-C types of pipes or when sticking with crimp, cinch, or pushed-fit systems. Knowledge of the various types of PEX and the associated connection methods would enable an individual to decide on the kind of PEX to use on the different plumbing projects. If PEX-A is what you are after because of its outstanding resistance and versatility, it is worth purchasing an expander tool from iCrimp. We offer the best, which are durable, easy to use, and cost-effective.
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