SHARKBITE PEX INSTALLATION GUIDE ®
Table of Contents Introduction..........................................................................................................3 Features and Benefits of SharkBite® Tubing Features and Benefits of SharkBite Push-to-Connect Fittings Features and Benefits of Clamp/Barb Systems Types of Plumbing Systems...............................................................................4 Trunk and Branch Systems Manifold Systems Combination Systems Home-Run Systems Making a SharkBite Connection...........
Introduction The purpose of this guide is to familiarize plumbing professionals with the SharkBite Connection System, and the recommended method of installing SharkBite PEX tubing. SharkBite PEX tubing can be used with SharkBite push-to-connect fittings, SharkBite barbed fittings, SharkBite manifolds, and SharkBite valves. SharkBite PEX is an excellent tubing product for plumbing, radiant and hydronic systems, offering many advantages over traditional rigid pipe.
Plumbing Systems The SharkBite Connection System offers the only Total Rough-in Solution, including a full line of valves, push-to-connect fittings, PEX tubing and traditional PEX components and tools. The SharkBite system offers three options for a PEX tubing installation – Trunk & Branch, Manifold,or a Combination system – as described in the diagrams below. The Home-Run system, using traditional PEX components (barbed fittings, clamp rings, etc.) offers the total lowest material cost.
Making a SharkBite Connection The combination of SharkBite push-to-connect fittings and PEX tubing offers the fastest, easiest installation from meter to fixture. Step 1. Use plastic tubing cutters to cut the tubing between the pointed ends of the repeating 1" SharkBite imprint pattern. The pattern provides a visual aid to determine if the tube has been inserted all the way into the fitting. Ensure the tube is cut square. A square cut end allows the tubing to be inserted all the way into the fitting.
Making a SharkBite Clamp/Barb Connection The use of traditional PEX components (manifolds, barbed fittings, clamp or crimp rings, etc.) offers the total lowest material cost. Step 1. Step 2. Step 3. Step 4. Use plastic tubing cutters to cut the tubing to length, making sure that you have a good square cut. A rough or uneven cut will result in a weakened joint. Slide the correct size clamp ring over the tube and approximately 2" past the end of the tubing.
Check Calibration of Clamp Tool 1. Close the Clamp Tool handles to the stop point and insert gauge into jaw gap Calibrating the Clamp Tool Always check the Clamp Tool with the calibration gauge before the first and after the last crimp on each job site. 2. Gauge must stop at the NO-GO line in order to make proper connections If the gauge goes into the jaws beyond the GO portion, the Clamp Tool should be recalibrated following these steps. 1. Place GO portion of gage into jaw gap 2.
Making a SharkBite Crimp/Barb Connection The use of traditional PEX components (manifolds, barbed fittings, clamp or crimp rings, etc.) offers the total lowest material cost. Step 1. Step 2. Step 3. Step 4. Step 5. Use plastic tubing cutters to cut the tubing to length, making sure that you have a good square cut. A rough or uneven cut will result in a weakened joint. Slide the correct size crimp ring over the tubing and approximately 2" past the end of the tubing.
Dos and Don’ts for SharkBite PEX Tubing For potable water and hydronic distribution { Dos } • Do use SharkBite PEX tubing for hot and cold water distribution only. • Do leave extra tubing at both ends of run to make connections easier. • Do install SharkBite PEX tubing to the appropriate plumbing code. • Do ensure the tubing is supported properly to prevent undue stress, strain, thermal expansion and contraction. • Do pressure test the system upon completion.
Proper Support of SharkBite PEX SharkBite PEX must be properly supported to protect against excessive strain. For both vertical and horizontal applications we recommend the tubing be supported every 32" between supports, leaving a little slack (1/8"-1/4") in the tube to allow for normal expansion and contraction. Always use approved PEX supports and never use a support that has sharp edges.
Technical Data for SharkBite PEX (cont’d) { Certifications: } { Pressure Loss Data: } The SharkBite PEX tubing is design certified to ASTM F-876, F-877, CSA B137.5 standards, and is listed to the NSF/ANSI 14 and CSA B137.5 standards for use in potable water systems. { Maximum Working Pressure } 160 psi @ 73.
Policies & Warranty Return Goods Policy Restocking charges and items returned for credit: • New Standard Catalog Items - 20% restocking charged if returned for credit only. For items ordered in error, the charge will be reduced to 10% if replacement items are purchased. • Special Order Items (products with special modifications) - 25% minimum to 50% maximum restocking charge, depending on modifications (consult factory). All restocking charges are based on F.O.B.
Reliance Worldwide Corporation 2727 Paces Ferry Road SE Building 2 Suite 1800 Atlanta, GA 30339 Phone: 1-877-700-4242 • Fax: 1-877-700-4280 www.rwc.com Reliance Worldwide Corporation (Canada) Inc. 74 Alex Avenue Vaughan, Ontario, L4L 5X1 Phone: 1-888-820-0120 Sales Inquiries: canadasales@rwc.com Orders: canadaorders@rwc.com www.sharkbite.
