Uponor has extended its successful Ecoflex Thermo VIP portfolio by introducing a 140mm high performance pipe which has been developed specifically to meet the requirements of the next generation of district heating projects and provide exceptional thermal performance.
Ecoflex Thermo VIP is a high performance pre-insulated pipe that combines the best possible heat loss performance with outstanding flexibility. The bigger pipe is ideal for local networks that run at low-temperature levels as well as the increasingly popular district heating networks where high-water volumes are required to meet the latest design specification standards, including CIBSE CP1 2020. By extending the range, Uponor is helping specifiers and contractors to provide sustainable solutions that reduce CO2 emissions and will support the energy distribution networks of the future.
The Vacuum Insulation Panel (VIP) technology provides heating and cooling networks with high insulation performance and a market-leading low lambda value. This reduces heat and energy loss as the water travels from the heat source and around the building by up to 60%, which is of particular significance for district heating networks which require water to run over long distances at a maximum flow temperature of 70°C.
The new 140mm PEX pipe is the most robust service pipe available. Yet, it still offers the same flexibility as soft foam insulated products, even with a diameter up to 30% smaller. This flexibility enables Ecoflex Thermo VIP to easily cope with obstacles and without additional connections, which minimises potential weak points and leaks after the pipes have been laid.
The panel with the flexible, multi-layer aluminium diffusion barrier makes the pipe extremely compact and easy to handle. This enables faster installation, even for complex designs or in confined spaces, which helps to reduce on-site disruption and lower installation costs. In fact, installation time can be up to 20% quicker than hard PUR foam insulated flexible pipes and up to 60% compared to steel pipes.
Vacuum insulated panels are one of the best insulation materials used in pipework for healthcare, logistics, construction, household appliance and vehicle applications. Adapting this technology and applying it to the Ecoflex Thermo VIP range has enabled Uponor to achieve outstanding insulation performance, reducing heat loss and operational costs.
“District heating networks are increasingly being seen as key to meeting our net zero target by 2050,” comments Mark Dowdeswell, Senior Category Manager at Uponor. “The addition of our 140mm Ecoflex Thermo VIP pipe is a real game changer as it helps future-proof district heating projects by enabling specifiers and contractors to meet the requirements for both 4th and 5th generation schemes.”
The new 140mm pipe is compatible with all other Uponor Ecoflex Thermo and Ecoflex Thermo VIP products and provides a complete heating and cooling system that meets the highest efficiency and sustainability standards.
