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SharkBite PE-RT & ProLock System Supports Sustainable Building Practices

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As today’s construction industry aims its attention toward more sustainable building practices, RWC continues to support and develop environmentally friendly plumbing solutions. This year, SharkBite began merchandising PE-RT tubing -- a welcome addition to RWC’s innovative family of brands. Read on to learn more about PE-RT, its advantages and wide range of applications.

What is PE-RT?

The Plastics Pipe Institute defines PE-RT as: “a polyethylene (PE) resin in which the molecular architecture has been designed such that a sufficient number of tie chains are incorporated to allow operation at elevated or raised temperatures (RT).” This durable tubing provides superior long-term hydrostatic strength at high temperatures, and is commonly used in domestic hot and cold plumbing applications. The European market has benefited from PE-RT for more than 35 years, and in 2003, the tubing was introduced to the North American market.

Green Building Benefits

PE-RT is highly durable, flexible, lightweight and 100% recyclable - an ideal eco-friendly solution on the jobsite. Additionally, PE-RT is resistant to corrosion, chlorine and chloramine, freezing, noise and water hammer, making it a dependable and long-lasting solution that reduces the need to frequently repair or replace installed tubing.

Performance Standards & Applications

PE-RT tubing is approved in all model plumbing and mechanical codes in the United States. PE-RT tubing used in potable water applications is certified to Performance Standard ASTM F2769 and Drinking Water Health Effects Standard NSF/ANSI 61. Compliance with these standards is required for PE-RT tubing to be installed in potable water applications in both the UPC and the IPC. PE-RT tubing is also certified to CSA B137.18, which is the Canadian equivalent to ASTM F2769. PE-RT tubing carries a CL5 classification for oxidative resistance to hot chlorinated water, meaning it is acceptable for use in continuous recirculation hot water systems up to 140℉.

SharkBite currently offers PE-RT for potable water systems in residential and commercial applications. PE-RT is approved in all model plumbing and mechanical codes in the United States. PE-RT connections require no flames or heating and can be easily installed as a system with our ProLock™ push-to-connect products. Our PE-RT tubing has a 25-year warranty when used with ProLock, and is sold exclusively at The Home Depot.