Richard Bateman, Product Marketing Manager at RWC answers some of the most frequently asked questions on JG Speedfit
Q: What applications are JG Speedfit pipes and fittings suitable for?
Richard Bateman (RB): The pipes and fittings are fit for a wide range of plumbing applications, in both domestic and light commercial settings, including cold and hot water applications, either as the main system pipework for an entire property or, for directly connecting a supply to a fixture or appliance.
The JG Speedfit plumbing and heating system is also compatible with central heating applications; however, it is recommended to not directly connect the system to a boiler.
Although the specification tolerances of Speedfit PEX and Polybutylene pipework is adequate for a direct boiler connection, it’s recommended that the first metre of pipe away from the boiler be copper, which can then be connected to Speedfit pipe.
Q: Can JG Speedfit products be used outside?
RB: As long as the pipes and fittings are sufficiently insulated, the products can definitely be installed outside. Whilst the plastic of the pipework is not likely to fracture or split due to lack of insulation, as is often the case with copper alternatives, the water inside of the pipework can still freeze if conditions are cold enough.
Similarly, although the pipes and fittings offer insulating properties themselves, an extra layer of protection goes a long way to ensure that they don’t get damaged. This insulation should comply with BS EN 806.
Additionally, for underground pipework, there is JG Speedfit’s range of MDPE fittings, which are of course, designed to be used outside. This range is shock resistant and is designed to be even more robust than our standard Speedfit fittings.
Q: Are inserts required when using JG Speedfit fittings, and what is the difference between the standard and Superseal inserts?
RB: When using JG Speedfit fittings with polybutylene or PEX pipe, it is essential that a pipe insert is installed. These are often also referred to as pipe supports, and it’s not hard to see why – as they do just that. Both types of pipe inserts, ensure that the connection within the fitting is rigid, which prevents any leaks or accidental disconnections when working with plastic pipe.
The standard pipe inserts can be used in conjunction with compression type fittings or standard type Speedfit connections, for example those featured on our JG Underfloor Heating Manifolds.
However, if connecting to a Twist & Lock fitting, we recommend using our Superseal pipe inserts instead. Superseal pipe inserts contain dual O-Rings to provide even greater sealing security than a standard insert. And when they are used alongside Twist & Lock fittings, a multi-seal connection is formed as all fittings include a main O-Ring seal themselves.
Both inserts need only be used when working with plastic pipe, when working with copper pipe, they are not required.
Q: Which pipe materials are compatible with the JG Speedfit Twist & Lock fittings?
RB: The fittings are suitable for use with both plastic and copper pipe. However, for plastic pipe, it is recommended to use, JG Layflat Polybutylene Pipe or JG Speedfit PEX pipe, so long as a pipe insert is fitted of course.
Twist & Lock fittings are also suitable for use with copper pipe too, as this pipework forms a rigid connection once inserted, without the need for a pipe insert. JG Speedfit Twist & Lock fittings are, however, not suitable for chrome, or stainless-steel pipe.
For more technical information and advice visit JG Speedfit push-fit plumbing and heating | John Guest.
