Install Instructions
IM-PR 566442 1114 (Design Manual)
136
Scope
This material specication designates the requirements
for Viega FostaPEX multilayer pressure pipe for hot
and cold water distribution tubing and hydronic radiant
heating applications. All FostaPEX tubing has a fully
dimensioned inner PEX core to the copper tube size
dimension (CTS), SDR-9 wall thickness and meets the
respective requirements of ASTM Standard F876 and
F877.
Materials
The multi-layered construction of the FostaPEX tubing
is made from one full dimensional inner PEX core with
an aluminum and outer PE layer surrounding it. This
construction allows the inner layer alone to meet all
temperature and pressure requirements of the system.
Using the prep tool to remove the outer layers allows
the use of the standard PureFlow PEX Press tting
system.
Marking and Certification
All FostaPEX tubing is marked with the name Viega as
the manufacturer, nominal size, plastic tubing material
designation code PEX 5006, Chlorine resistance rating NSF-
pw (CL5), design pressure and temperature ratings, relevant
ASTM standards, manufacturing date and production
code, as well as the NSF-pw stamps indicating third-party
certication by NSF International for meeting and exceeding
performance and toxicological standards, as well as
achieving the highest chlorine resistance rating in the PEX
industry. NSF conducts random on-site inspections of Viega
manufacturing facilities and independently tests FostaPEX
tubing for compliance with physical, performance and
toxicological standards. FostaPEX is also certied to meet
the Uniform Plumbing Code, IAPMO UPC®, CSA (Canadian
Standards Association) B137.5, the ICC (International Code
Council) Evaluation Service, and HUD (Housing and Urban
Development).
Property ASTM Test Method Typical Values
English Units SI Units
Density D 792 – 0.944 g/cc
Melt Index
1
(190° C/2.16 kg) D 1238 – 8.5g/10 min
Coefcient of Linear Thermal Expansion @ 68° F D 696 1.3x10
-5
in/in/°F 2.4x10
-5
mm/mm/°C
Hydrostatic Design Basis @ 73°F (23°C) D 2837 1250 psi 8.6 MPa
Hydrostatic Design Basis @ 180°F (82°C) D 2837 800 psi 5.5 MPa
1. Before Cross-linking
FostaPEX High-Density Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX)
Recommended Uses
FostaPEX tubing is intended and recommended for
use in hot and cold potable water distribution systems
and hydronic radiant heating and cooling systems. Like
ViegaPEX Barrier, which has a barrier layer that resists
the passage of oxygen through the wall of the tubing,
the aluminum layer in FostaPEX offers even higher
resistance to oxygen permeation in radiant heating
applications. FostaPEX tubing can also be used in
water service applications and is virtually impermeable
to any soil contaminants. Design temperature and
pressure ratings for FostaPEX are 160 psi @ 73°F, 100
psi @ 180°F, and 80 psi @ 200°F. For information on
the suitability for other hot and cold water applications
not listed here, consult with your Viega representative.
Handling and Installation
FostaPEX cross-linked polyethylene tubing is tough yet
exible. The aluminum layer allows tubing to be bent
into position and remain in position when released.
However, use of these materials in hot and cold water
distribution systems must be in accordance with good
plumbing practices, applicable code requirements,
and current installation practices available from Viega.
FostaPEX is manufactured to meet written national
standards. Contact a Viega representative or the
applicable code enforcement bureau for information
about approvals for specic applications.