There are two types of Aquatherm pipes: faser-composite pipes and non-faser pipes. Faser-composite pipes are designed for hot water installations and non-faser pipes are intended only for use in cold water installations. The faser-composite layer reduces expansion in the pipe and provides linear support. As a result, the support spacing for the faser-composite pipes is less than other plastics in most cases and is dependent on the temperature of the fluid it is carrying. The hanger spacing for cold water pipes is generally uniform.

The installer should base hanger spacing on the intended temperature of the pipes, taking into account the temperature of the pipes at the time of installation.

Hangers and Clamps

It is important to choose clamps and hangers that are safe to use with a plastic pipe. Hangers that have a non-metal padding on the inside are generally safe to use. Metal clamps designed to prevent gouging of plastic pipe are also generally acceptable. Verify with the manufacturer of the hangers and/or clamps that they are compatible with PP-R piping. Damage caused by the hangers themselves is not covered under the Aquatherm warranty.

When securing the pipe in place, it is important to distinguish between fixed points and sliding points. Fixed points are clamped tightly against the pipe and prevent any expansion or movement through that point. Sliding points are clamped loosely or simply hung and do not restrict expansion or movement. The proper application of each is explained in the next two sections.

Clamps directly on cold and chilled pipes should be lined with felt or rubber to avoid condensation. Metal clamps and hangers should never be used in direct contact with recirculating hot water piping.

Fixed Points

Fixed points are used to divide the pipe into sections, restricting any uncontrolled movement of the pipe. Fixed points must be measured and installed to accommodate the forces of expansion in the pipe as well as probable additional loads.

When using threaded rods or threaded screws, the drop from the ceiling should be as short as possible. Swinging clamps should not be used as fixed points.

Vertical distributions can be installed using only fixed points. Faser-composite risers do not require expansion loops, provided that fixed points are located immediately before or after a branch. Pipe clamp distances of vertically installed pipes can be increased by 20% of the tabular values on the following page, (i.e., multiply the tabular value by

Sliding Points

Sliding points must allow axial pipe movement without damaging the pipe. When positioning a sliding point, make sure that movement of the pipe is not blocked by walls, fittings, or mechanical equipment installed next to the clamp or hanger.

Increased hanger spacing

Installers can increase the hanger spacing by running hot water through the pipes before fixing them in place. This reduces the temperature difference between installation and operation. Installers may also use in-line supports to increase the acceptable distance between hangers.