ᐅ When are expansion joints necessary?

Created on: 24 Feb 2020 20:56
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Vicky Pedia
Hello,
I am aware of the principle that with copper piping for heating systems (which should be the standard), an expansion joint must be installed every 10 m (33 feet) of pipe length. That sounds logical and I have seen it done before. My question is: Is there a standard, manufacturer’s guideline, or similar regulation that requires this? In other words, is it recommended practice or a mandatory rule? I would appreciate knowledgeable answers.
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hegi___
25 Feb 2020 09:12
Nowadays, plastic is also used for heating systems.
At most, this applies to the installation near the boiler, but that section is usually not longer than 10m (33 feet).
Vicky Pedia25 Feb 2020 09:47
Correct! It is not underfloor heating, but traditional radiators. And here, both supply and return pipes are made of copper. However, the pipe lengths are already quite long.
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pffreestyler
25 Feb 2020 10:45
hegi___ schrieb:

Nowadays, plastic is also used for heating systems.
At most, the section near the boiler is still metal, but that part probably isn’t longer than 10m (33 feet).

Ah, okay, I didn’t know that. Here, the supply and return pipes are still made of copper. Are there major disadvantages to using plastic instead? If so, I might consider having the upper floor redone differently at some point.
Vicky Pedia25 Feb 2020 13:26
I believe copper is still commonly used. In recent years, composite pipes made of plastic and aluminum have become increasingly popular.
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Bookstar
25 Feb 2020 18:12
Copper is much too expensive. Aluminum plastic is the standard.
Vicky Pedia25 Feb 2020 18:26
Unfortunately, I cannot choose, as this is an existing structure.