REHAU launches new modular manifold at Ecobuild

REHAU launched a new RAUGEO Click modular manifold system at Ecobuild which combines large volume and fast connection with complete onsite flexibility.

It has been designed for use with all REHAU’s ground-source pipework including the RAUGEO PE-Xa, PE and Helix ground source probes, the RAUGEO horizontal collectors and the RAUGEO energy piles. It can be used with any PE or PE-Xa pipes from d20 to d50 and the module body can rotate 90º so it can be operated on both sides to meet the requirements of virtually any site or project.

One of the key advantages of the new RAUGEO Click is that it has a 65mm internal diameter which is larger than traditional manifolds and reduces pressure losses thereby increasing system efficiency even in applications with a high volume flow.

It is also much faster to assemble on site than traditional units with an innovative new ‘click’ fix connection system which lets installers feel when the bayonet connection is being made and hear an audible click sound when the locking lever fixes into place reassuring them that it is secure.

REHAU estimates that assembling the manifold, fitting the flow and return sections and then inserting the manifold into the wall bracket supplied can all be achieved in just a couple of minutes.

The module body is made from structurally reinforced glass fibre-reinforced plastic and, with the exception of a main pipe connection thread in dezincification-resistant brass, there are no metal components on the manifold eliminating the risk of corrosion from condensation.

The unit can be ordered either pre-assembled and pressure tested and certified in the factory, or it can be built on site depending on the requirements of the application.

In ground source heat pump projects where every degree is vital to the overall performance, a significant benefit of RAUGEO Click is that it offers lower thermal conductivity than manifolds in PE100, with heat loss in RAUGEO Click measuring 0.30W/mK compared with 0.42W/mK in a PE100 manifold.

Push fittings designed specifically for the manifold also allow installers to make the brine circuit connections quickly and without special tools.

Chamfered pipes are inserted up to the insertion mark in the push fitting and this is then connected to the manifold using a bayonet ring with snap-in point and open/lock marking. On the return section, the push fittings are fitted directly to the flow metre and, once the system has been filled, the volume flow is regulated by both the flow metre and a ball valve integrated into the module body. The fittings are transparent which means installers can make a visual check on the pipe to ensure it is fitted correctly.

Additional connections can be added at any time and there is the option to fit extras such as ball valves or a thermomanometer.