In municipal water infrastructure, time is money. But the “time” part of the equation is twofold. Not only do products need to be installed quickly, they need a long life span. According to REHAU, MUNICIPEX PEXa piping checks both boxes.
MUNICIPEX pipe is manufactured using a high-pressure peroxide method for crosslinked polyethylene, also referred to as PEXa. In addition, it is co-extruded with a PE shield that protects the pipe when exposed to ultraviolet light. This provides MUNICIPEX with enhanced benefits over other municipal piping, according to Simon Koenig, REHAU’s MUNICIPEX product manager.
“Because the molecules are cross-linked, the pipe is more rugged and is designed to take more abuse,” he says. “But because it is also more flexible, it is easier to work with.”
MUNICIPEX is available in four variations: water service, pre-insulated, force main and reclaim. The water service line is designed to deliver potable water from the water main to any residential or commercial structure. Pre-insulated is specially designed for water distribution in cold climates that require an extra level of protection from freezing, or when laying pipe below the frost line is not possible. It consists of MUNICIPEX carrier pipe protected by a CFC-free polyurethane foam insulation and a corrugated LDPE outer casing. Color-coded with a green co-extruded coating, force main is designed for conveying wastewater under pressure from the discharge side of a pump or pneumatic ejector to a discharge point. The newest addition to the product line, reclaim, transports reclaimed water from the water treatment facility to the point of use. It is color-coded with a purple PE shield that protects the pipe against UV light for an extended time and indicates use in reclaimed water applications.
According to Koenig, the benefits of using MUNICIPEX have quickly made it the market leader in the industry. Not only is it durable enough to be installed using whatever natural backfill material is available, it can be stretched up to 500% before fracture, it is kink-resistant, and can be easily repaired with only a heat gun. Its material is corrosion resistant and offers the pricing stability that isn’t found in the copper market.
“When we talk to our customers, they appreciate that MUNICIPEX is much easier to install, with less force and no recoil,” Koenig says. “It really is the perfect alternative to the alternative waterlines out there.” 800-247-9445; www.municipex.com
