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Types of Connections
The only pipes which should be used with a solar installation are copper pipe, continuous flexible
stainless steel or mild steel.
When using copper pipe, only compression or brazed joints can be used. Solder and galvanised
fittings will not withstand high temperature or expansion and are therefore not suitable for solar
pipe work.
PEX / PLASTIC / PEX-ALU-PEX or GALVANISED TUBING OR FITTINGS SHOULD NOT BE USED
UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES
Flexible Pipe Connections
Flexible pipe connections are recommended to connect the manifold through the building fabric
and allow flexibility in connecting to the internal pipe work.
Flexible stainless steel pipe kits are available with a range of lengths and fittings.
Insulation
All pipe work on the solar loop should be insulated with high temperature insulation (such as
HT/Armaflex from Armacell GmbH). High temperature insulation is essential as regular pipe
insulation will melt at temperatures experienced by solar pipes.
The wall thickness of the insulation should meet national standards. The only pipes which should
not be insulated are the pipes to the safety vessels as they should allow heat to dissipate when
the system is experiencing excessive heat and pressure.
