COBRATHERM

random
polypropylene tubes
and pipe fittings

Technical and practical manual which is necessary

to use COBRATHERM system in the field
of waterworks and sanitary facilities.
1. Introduction

This technical manual, which is addressed

to the professionals who are working in
hydrothermosanitary field, results from the
development strategy which has been
adopted in the last few years. TIEMME
Raccorderie firm has been investing its
capital in high technology and human
resources since it was incorporated in
Lumezzane Gnutti Group. Thanks to
these actions, the traditional range of
products was renewed, including a wider
range of articles in order to comply with
customers’ requests and meet their needs.

The TIEMME general catalogue, not only

includes traditional pipe fittings, but also
the following new products which are
already available on the market:

• Ball valves
• Brass bibcock
• Compression fittings for copper pipes
• Compression fittings for multilayer pipes
• Compression fittings for Cobra-Pex
pipes
• Compression fittings with O-Ring
for polyethylene pipes
• Brass generic fittings
• Press fittings for multilayer pipes
• Copper and bronze soldering fittings
• Soldering fittings
• Copper and bronze press fittings
• Polypropylene pipes and fittings
• Cross linked polyethylene and multilayer
pipes
• Manifolds
• Radiator valves and lockshield
As it can be seen, TIEMME firm made a
great effort, as it not only offers single
products, but also a wide range of products
which are similar and compatible one with
the other, forming a “system”.
This manual, just like those which are
related to other firm products, aims at
emphasising this new concept of “system”,
also providing all information which are
necessary to easily and correctly use
various components.
The TIEMME System Quality organisation To meet these needs, TIEMME firm shows
has been amplified, achieving the ISO a series of technical and practical manuals
9002 certification with KIWA, the primary which are necessary to use our products
certification Authority in the water field in according to the system concept, also
Europe, in May, 1999. mentioning dimensioning methods.
As in addition to the numerous and
authoritative written articles published in Wishing You a good and profitable work
specialised stamp, the company’s certification and hoping that You will appreciate this
is the guarantee that the products are useful manual, we remain with our best
projected, constructed and tested to in regards.
order to satisfy the users demands.
The updating of certificates and other TIEMME Raccorderie S.p.a.
detail information are at the customer’s
disposal at the TIEMME Commercial The Chairman
Offices.
Moreover, after having invested its capital
in high technologies and human resources,
our firm also intends to concentrate its
attention on communication and information
field in order to give its commercial
partners and installers all advice and
technical information which are necessary
to correctly use our products.

According to our firm, it is necessary to

guarantee product certification in order to
meet customer’s needs, as the customer
himself will have to issue a Conformity
Declaration with system rules, thus assuming
precise responsibility.

1
2. Generalities
As it was previously mentioned in the
introduction, these manuals aims at better
explaining how to use our product systems.
In order to reach this target, systems must be
divided into different groups and after having
divided them into the two traditional fields of
water systems and sanitary facilities and
air-conditioning units, it is necessary to
subdivide them into other groups. These
groups must be split up starting from the
system which is included in the group in
question.
For example, air conditioning units include
manifold, single-tube, radiant panel systems
and so on.

Considering COBRATHERM system-product

purposes, this manual only deals with and
analyses those systems which are compatible
with them.
It will be possible to provide useful
information which are necessary to use
various system products and guarantee
system dimensioning according to existing
specific rules. picture 1
In case of those systems whose dimensioning
is calculated following complex procedures, it
will only be possible to give general instructions,
referring the reader to the specific regulations
on the subject.
(*)
160
This manual thoroughly examines traditional
supply systems (with series-connected
sanitary facilities ) – see picture 1 and picture 2.
The sizes which are shown in the pictures at
the right side of the page are indicated in
[mm] and they refer to most common sanitary
facility installation.
These values are checked according to the
kind of sanitary facilities which are used and 160 220
building obligations.
(*) This value is suitable for outer supply tubes. picture 2
COBRATHERM tubes and pipe fittings can
be used for the construction of any supply
system of fluids which are chemically and Regression curves graphically show the As regards chemical compatibility between
physically compatible with the material and connection between these three parameters. the material and carrier fluids, see material
lowest and highest temperatures and pressure Consequently, in short, PP-R tube and pipe list which is shown in 4.4 paragraph on
values which are allowed by the system. fitting duration strictly depends on system page 4.
Concerning this, see regression curves highest working temperature and pressure
which are shown in the diagram on page 5. values. The manual includes an appendix concer-
As in the case of all plastic pipes, Tube and pipe fitting duration also depends ning all specifications which are commonly
COBRATHERM tube and pipe fitting duration on other aspects, such as for example, the and frequently used, hoping that they can be
depends on the following parameters: chemical compatibility with carrier fluid, ther- rapidly and easily consulted by technicians
mal expansions which are not well compen- and installers.
• Mechanical stress = pressure sated, etc.
• Thermal shock = temperature
• Stress duration = time

2
3. PP-R polypropylene – type 3
COBRATHERM system tubes and pipe RANDOM POLYPROPYLENE – TYPE 3 SPECIFICATIONTABLE
fittings are manufactured by using BEC 6006
random copolymer polypropylene type 3 which
SPECIFICATIONS REGULATION/TEST MEASUREMENT VALUE
is specially produced by PCD Polymere for UNIT
the construction of fluid supply systems. Fluidity index – MFI 230/2, 16 ISO 1133 / Proced. 12 g/10 min 0,25
The Table I on the right side of the page DIN 53735 / Code M g/10 min 0,25
shows all material specifications, reference
regulations and regulations which are related Density at 23 °C ISO R1183 / DIN 53479 g/cm3 0,90÷0,91
to endurance tests.
BEC 6006 random copolymer polypropylene Yield stress ISO R527 / DIN 53455 N/mm2 27
type 3 is not only manufactured according to E modulus traction ISO R527 / DIN 53457 % 900
the regulations which are shown in the table, Breaking strain ISO R527 - Velocità D % >800
but it also complies with national laws which Brinell hardness test ISO 2039 (H358/30) N/mm2 49
are in force concerning the materials which
are used for the construction of foodstuff Resilience (Charpy) at: 23 °C ISO 179/2D / DIN 53479 KJ/m2 It does not
supply pipes (further details will be provided -30 °C ISO 179/2D / norm. scale KJ/m2 40
upon demand). Resilience at : 23 °C ISO 179/1eA KJ/m2 31
The material which is used for the construction -20 °C ISO 179/1eA KJ/m2 2,2
of COBRATHERM system is also:
• Suitable for the construction of tubes and VICAT A/C° melting point ISO 306 / DIN 53460 °C 140÷150
pipe fittings which are used for drinking Dimensional stability maximum temperature ISO 75/B / DIN 53461 °C 75
water supply. Linear thermal conductivity DIN 52612 W/mK 0,22
• It is complies with DIN8078 and DIN 16887 Thermal expansion coefficient VIDE 0304 (1-4) mm/m°C 0,15
regulations concerning the lowest long-lasting Specific heat at 20 °C Adiabatic calorimetry KJ/KgK 2,0
hydrostatic force.
Dielectric constant DIN 53483 --- 2,3
Dielectric rigidity DIN 53481 KV/mm 75
Table I

4. COBRATHERMsystem
The system is characterised by plastic
components which are subject to polyfusion
welding.
This technology was successfully put on the
market according to two concepts which are
necessary for most installers: guarantee
working schedule by using innovative materials
which offer great technical and economic
advantages.
TIEMME COBRATHERM system reaches
both goals, offering the following advantages:
• High dielectric properties
• Low thermal conductivity
• Soundproofing properties; plastic material
damps sound-wave propagation.
• Non-toxicity; it can be used for foodstuff
supply (see chemical compatibility table)
• Very good mechanical and functional
characteristics (duration, pressure,
temperature, expansions,
applications, etc.)
• Lower pressure loss thanks to its smooth
inner coating.
• Very good behaviour in the presence of
deposits and abrasion phenomena.
• Lightness during transport, movement and
installation.
• It can be easily installed
4.1 Dielectric properties
The raw material which is used for the
construction of COBRATHERM system has
a very high volume and surface resistivity.
Thanks to this characteristic, random
polypropylene type 3 is one of the best
electrically insulated materials.
Consequently, supply systems which are
manufactured will never be subject to electro-
erosion phenomena, unlike metal tubes which
are subject to stray currents, battery ignition
effect which is due to the combination of
non-homogeneous materials such as copper
and steel, etc.
According to the values which are shown in
Table I, this material is also characterised by a
very low dielectric constant value and a reduced
pressure loss factor, becoming totally insensitive
to the magnetic field action of any frequency,
consequently COBRATHERM systems can
never generate electro-magnetic interference,
unlike metal tube systems.
Nowadays, buildings are characterised by
management, check and measurement
computerised systems, reception and data
transmission systems, therefore water systems
with above-mentioned characteristics are
considered as a great technological step forward.
4.2 Low thermal conductivity
Thermal conductivity value of these pipes,
which is equal to 0,22 W/mK and heat loss per
linear metre are lower than those of metal
tubes.
A lower heat loss which passes through pipe
walls also determines a lower condenser water
formation in special outer thermo-hygrometric
conditions.
Condenser water formation is obviously due to
carrier fluid temperature, ambient temperature,
relative humidity value and the diameter of the
tube in question.
The experimental data which are collected
thanks to a direct observation with the help of
practical tests are available upon demand.
In any case, if COBRATHERM system is used
for hot or refrigerated fluid supply, it is necessary
to follow the thermal insulation regulations
which are in force.
4.3 Sound-proofing properties
Random copolymer polypropylene type 3,
thanks to its very good mechanical and dynamic
properties, is able to absorb mechanical stresses,
such as vibrations or small water hammers which
always take place in the system, highly reducing
their sound diffusion along the supply system.

3
4.4 Non-toxicity Chemical endurance of the pipe when it is not subjected to mechanical stress
Copolymer polypropylene type 3 is a
material which is insensitive to the chemical
agents which are in contact with it. Conc. T.(°C) Conc. T.(°C)
The material which is used for the construction Substance / Fluido (%) 20 60 Substance / Fluido (%) 20 60
of COBRATHERM system is stable even in
Commonly used anti-freeze - l l Margarine - l l
the presence of water or other foodstuffs.
Chromium-plating baths - l l Jam - l l
Thanks to this characteristic, it is non-toxic
Benzene 100 l l Menthol - l
and it can be used for fluid, powder or
Ethyl-benzene 100 l l Methanol 100 l l
gelatine supply in the field of food industry.
As COBRATHERM system can also be used
Sodium bicarbonate sat. sol. l l Methyl ethyl ketone 100 l l
Beer - l l Mercury 100 l l
for the construction of industrial processing Liquid bromine 100 l Diesel oil 100 l
plants, chemical compatibility of commonly Butane (gas) 100 l Naphthalene 100 l
used substances is indicated below. Butyl alcohol 100 l Potassium nitrate sat. sol. l l
Butyl acetate 100 l Sodium nitrate sat. sol. l l
Soluble cocoa - l l Copper nitrate 30 l l
Limestone - l l Nitrobenzene 100 l l
Bleach 12,5% of chlorine l l Oleum all l l
Potassium carbonate sat. sol. l l Peanut-oil - l l
Sodium carbonate sat. sol. l l Animal oil - l l
Wax - l l Camphor oil 98 l l
Cyclohexane 100 l Fuel oil - l l
Cyclohexanol 100 l l Coconut oil - l l
Potassium chlorate sat. sol. l l Almond oil - l l
l Very good resistance Sodium chlorate 25 l l Cod-liver-oil - l
l Good resistance Sodium chlorite 5 l Motor oil - l l
l Quite resistant Liquid chlorine 100 l l Corn oil - l l
l Unresisting Chlorine (dry gas) 100 l l Linseed oil - l l
Chlorine (wet gas) 100 l l Olive-oil - l l
Conc. T.(°C) Chloroform 10 l l Silicone oil - l l
Substance / Fluido (%) 20 60 Calcium chloride sat. sol. l l Turpentine oil - l l
Ethyl chloride 100 l Paraffin oil 98 l l
Vinegar - l Methyl chloride 100 l Octane - l l
Acetone 100 l l Potassium chloride sat. sol. l l Ozone <0,5 ppm l l
Acetic acid 100 l l Sodium chloride sat. sol. l l Liquid cream - l
Benzoic acid 100 l l Coke - l Paraffin 100 l l
Boric acid 100 l l Potassium chromate sat. sol. l l Petroleum 100 l l
Hydrochloric acid all l l Toothpaste - l l Perborax sat. sol. l l
Chromic acid - l l Liquid detergent - l l Potassium permanganate sat. sol. l l
Phosphoric acid sat. sol. l l Diethyl ether 100 l Potassium persulphate sat. sol. l
Formic acid - l Dimethyl-formamide 100 l Propane gas 100 l l
Photographic acid - l l Dioxan 100 l l Liquid soap 10 l l
Glycolic acid 100 l l Hexane 100 l l Mustard - l l
Lactic acid - l l Heptane 100 l l Caustic soda 100 l l
Muriatic acid 10 l l Ethyl acetate 100 l l Sodium sulphate sat. sol. l l
Nitric acid >40 l l Ethyl hexane 100 l Sodium sulphite sat. sol. l l
Oleic acid 100 l Petroleum ether 100 l l Apple juice - l l
Accumulator acid - l l Flour - l Orange juice - l l
Sulphuric acid 98 l l Phenol sat. sol. l l Lemon juice - l l
Chlorine water sat. sol. l l Sodium phosphate sat. sol. l l Fruit juice - l l
Distilled water 100 l l Formaldehyde 40 l l Tea - l l
Drinking water - l l Glycerine 100 l l Sodium thiosulphate sat. sol. l l
Sea-water - l l Liquid glycerine low l l Carbon tetrachloride 100 l l
Soda-water - l Gas oil - l l Tetrachloroethylene 100 l l
Boric acid solution sat. sol. l l Glucose - l l Thiophene 100 l l
Hydrogen peroxide 10 l l Sodium hypochlorite 5 l l Turpentine 100 l
Aqua regia - l l Potassium iodide sat. sol. l l Trichloro-ethylene 100 l l
Ethyl alcohol 100 l Iso-octane 100 l l Urea sat. sol. l l
Starch al l l Wool-fat - l l Vanilla - l l
Ammonia gas 100 l l Milk - l l Vaseline - l l
Liquid ammonia conc. l l Liquor all l Wine - l l
Aniline 100 l l Lemonades - l Xylene 100 l l

4
4.5 Mechanical characteristics
In order to determine COBRATHERM tube
Regression curve diagram
and component mechanical characteristics, it is
necessary to analyse the following parameters:
pressure, temperature, duration, thermal
expansions etc.
Thanks to the regression curves which are
shown in the diagram on the right side of the
page, it is possible to determine PP-R pipe
characteristics.
The curves resulted from accelerated tests

EQUIVALENT STRESSES [N/mm]

concerning pressure and working temperatures
which were conducted according DIN 8078
regulation in order to calculate PP-R pipe
lowest life cycle.
Regression curve diagram is commonly used
to determine PP-R pipe system life cycle,
considering pressure and working temperature
values.
It is also possible to determine system duration
and highest working pressure in the period in
question.
The various parameters are calculated thanks
to the following equation:

σ = (P/2s)•(d e - s) • f [1]

and:
σ = stands for mechanical stress indicated in
[N/mm2] which is exerted on pipe walls
because of pressure.
P = stands for the highest working pressure
indicated in [N/mm2]
d e = indicates pipe outer diameter [mm]
s = indicates pipe wall thickness [mm]
f = stands for safety factor; according to
accelerated ageing tests, the experiment
and the applications in the field of
waterworks and sanitary facilities, it is
generally equal to 1,5.
After having determined system life cycle, it is
possible to calculate the equivalent highest
working pressure value thanks to the following
equation:
P [bar] = A•s•(σ/f)/(d e - s) [2]
and:
A = indicates system yearly life cycle
Above-mentioned equations can be better
explained thanks to the following example.
N° [1] formula is commonly used to determine
supply system duration, considering pressure
and working temperature values.
Considering the following data:
• tube outer diameter – de = 20 mm
• tube wall thickness – s = 3, 4 mm
• highest working p.(*) – P = 10 bar = 1 N/mm2
• highest working temperature – T = 60 °C
• safety factor – f = 1,5
it is possible to achieve the following equation:
σ = (1/2•3,4) • (20 - 3,4) • 1,5 = 3,66
After having calculated mechanical stress,
draw a line which is parallel to abscissa axis
(red broken line) which starts from [s] value
and reaches working temperature curve in
question (which, according to the example, is
equal to 60°C).
The point which is determined and which is
shown on abscissa axis, indicates pipe
duration; according to the example, it is
equal to 5 x 105 hours, which correspond
with more than 50 years.
Similarly, thanks to [2] equation, it is possible
to determine highest working pressure value
[P].
For example, it is possible to calculate [P] value
of a tube with 20 x 3,4 mm diameter throughout
a period of 20 years at a temperature of
80°C, thanks to [2] equation:
P = 20•3,4•(2,5/1,5) / (20-3,4) = 6,8 bar
HOURS
4.5.1. Thermal expansions
COBRATHERM system is characterised by a
thermal expansion coefficient which is higher
than that of metals and commonly used
building materials, but system components
are easily installed underground.
This is due to supply system route deviations,
thus favouring expansion absorption.
Even if all this does not happen, or
COBRATHERM tubes are under-floor,
expansions can be absorbed by random
copolymer polypropylene type 3 thanks to its
deformation properties which are due to its
low elasticity coefficient.
In order to prove that underground installation
does not generally cause any problem,
thanks to the presence of insulating sheaths,
which are required for the construction of hot
and cold water supply system having a
thickness which ranges from 9 to 20 mm, it is
possible to compensate the stresses which
are caused by thermal expansions.

5
On the contrary, in case of exposed supply LINEAR EXPANSION TABLE [mm] While positioning fixed points, it is
systems, thermal expansions cause circuit necessary to use, if possible, supply system
length twisting and bending which, besides
Length Δt [°K] course deviations to compensate thermal
being unaesthetic, can exert undesired L [m] 10 20 30 40 50 60 expansions.
stresses on some system components such 1,0 1,50 3,00 4,50 6,00 7,50 9,00 System and tap rigid pipe fittings will act as
as elbow joints, tees, curves, etc. 2,0 3,00 6,00 9,00 12,0 15,0 18,0 fixed points.
In these cases, it is necessary to use 3,0 4,50 9,00 13,5 18,0 22,5 27,0 Sliding supports will be installed between
special pipe clamps and create a supply 4,0 6,00 12,0 18,0 24,0 30,0 36,0 two fixed points according to pipe length,
system which is able to compensate 5,0 7,50 15,0 22,5 30,0 37,5 45,0 supporting pipes and favouring expansion
thermal expansions. 6,0 9,00 18,0 27,0 36,0 45,0 54,0 and shrinkage phenomena.
Type 3 copolymer polypropylene pipe 7,0 10,5 21,0 31,5 42,0 52,5 63,0 Supports will be fitted at the distance which
thermal expansion linear coefficient is equal 8,0 12,0 24,0 36,0 48,0 60,0 72,0 is shown in Table III, according to tube
to the following value:
9,0 13,5 27,0 40,5 54,0 67,5 81,0
diameter and working temperature.

α = 0,15 mm/m°C
10,0 15,0 30,0 45,0 60,0 75,0 90,0
Table II
this means that if every pipe length indicated SUPPORT DISTANCE TABLE [cm]
in linear metres is subject to a temperature Ø Temperature [°C]
rise which is equal to Dt = 1K, linear Tube 20 40 60 80
expansion value will be equal to 0,15 mm 4.5.3. Expansion joint calculation 20x3,4 80 70 65 60
and, consequently, it is very easy to calculate In order to create an expansion joint forming
system length total expansion value, which one or more curves, the minimum length 25x4,2 85 85 75 70
is the following: of the arm [Bd] to be achieved must be 32x5,4 100 90 80 70
calculated as follows: 40x6,7 110 105 100 90
ΔL = L • α • [3] 50x8,4 125 115 105 100
BD = k • √ de• ΔL [4] 63x10,5 140 130 120 110
and: and: Table III
ΔL = stands for total expansion value [mm] k = stands for material constant = 30
α = indicates linear expansion coefficient de = indicates the outer diameter of the
Δt = indicates the thermal head the tube is tube which is used
Fixed points
subject to [K] ΔL = indicates thermal expansion to be
compensated (PF)
For designer and installer’s convenience,
the Table II on the right side of the page Considering, for example, the following
shows linear expansion values related to data:
some system lengths and commonly used • ø 20 mm tube which is used

Bar or roll length (m)

thermal head values. • 10 metre long system part
• Thermal head Dt = 40 K (10 ‹ 50°C)
4.5.2. Expansion compensation
ΔL

Pipe linear expansion which is caused by calculation is solved as follows:

temperature rise and shrinkage which is
due to refrigerated water supply can generate
tensions which act on some supply system
points and, above all, on pipe fittings. When
expansions or shrinkage reach values
which cannot be compensated by supply
system development and natural form, it is
necessary to use appropriate anchoring
points (PF), sliding supports (PS) and
expansion arms (BD).
The procedures and calculations which are
indicated below are necessary to solve the
problem of thermal shrinkage and expansion
absorption of COBRATHERM tubes.
Arm
ΔL = 10 • 0,15 • 40 = 60 mm [BD]
BD = 30 • √ 20 • 60 = 1040 mm
Even in this case, to facilitate technician Picture 3
and installer’s work, all calculations have
been converted into a graphic form and
thanks to the nomogram which is shown in
picture 5, it is possible to rapidly calculate TO BE NOTICED:
expansion arms. Pipe length [L] which is necessary
to calculate expansion coefficient
[ΔL] always corresponds with
Fixed points Sliding support system parts which are measured
(PF) (PS) between two fixed supports
Arm [BD]

– see the diagrams which are

shown in picture 3 and 4.

ΔL ΔL Picture 4
Pipe length [m]

6
 Nomogram which is used to calculate expansion arm 4.5.4. Fields of application
Considering above mentioned COBRATHERM
tube and pipe fitting specifications, it is
possible to determine this technological
system application fields.
According to the highest temperature and
pressure values related to a system duration
which is equal to 50 years, this system can be
used both in civil and industrial field.
Civil systems includes hot and cold water supply
systems for sanitary use, low temperature
heating plants, garden irrigation systems, air
conditioning unit condenser water drain pipes,
EXPANSION ARM LOWEST LENGTH [mm]

etc.
The applications in the industrial field include,
besides above-mentioned systems, compressed
air supply systems, purifying systems which
are used for the supply of processing fluids or
fluids which are used in food industry (after
having previously checked their chemical
compatibility with carrier fluid), farm supply
systems, etc.
COBRATHERM system, thanks to its technical
characteristics such as salt-water and vibration
resistance, its soundproofing properties,
lightness, non toxicity, etc. is used for the
construction of boat and ship technological
systems.
This manual makes a calculation example
related to commonly used water systems and
sanitary facilities.

4.6 Continuous and local pressure losses

Random polypropylene pipes type 3 are
subject to pressure losses which are lower
than those of other kinds of pipes.
Thanks to material malleability, pipes with a
SYSTEM LENGTH [m] very smooth inner coating are subject to
extrusion.
Thanks to the diagram which is shown in
picture 6 of the following page, it is possible to
TEMPERATURE VARIATION [ΔT ° C]

determine [R] unit pressure loss values which

are indicated in c.a. mm and [v] speed values
indicated in m/s, considering [Q] flow indicated
in l/s.
Consequently, considering [L] pipe length
which is indicated in metres or in equivalent
metres, it is very easy to calculate the total
pressure loss of a straight or presumably
straight system length.
The paragraph 4.6.1. shows how it is possible
to define a straight “equivalent” pipe length
every local pressure loss point.
LENGTH VARIATION ΔL [mm] The diagram which is shown in picture 6, on the
contrary, refers to water flows at a temperature
Picture 5 of 10°C; in case of different temperature
values, collected data must be updated and
multiplied by correction factor [fc] which is indi-
cated in the diagram of picture 7.

7
Considering, for example, a system which
supplies 0,25 l/s of water at 60 °C., according
COBRATHERM tube pressure loss diagram
to the diagram which is shown in picture 6, it
results that R value is equal to 80 mm of c.a.
/m, while flow speed is equal to 0,88
m/s.Before calculating system length, it is
necessary to update [R] value at a fluid
temperature of 60 °C.
Thanks to the diagram which is shown in
picture 7, it is possible to determine fc
correction factor which is equal to 0,848, FLOW [l/s]
according to the following equation:

R = 80 • 0,848 = 68 mm di c.a./m
Correction factor [fc]

PRESSURE LOSS [mm c.a./m] Picture 6

and 4.6.1.2. Equivalent metre method

Fluid temperature [°C]
Picture 7
4.6.1. Local pressure losses
Besides continuous pressure losses which
are due to the resistance caused by the fric-
tion which is exerted along pipe walls, it is
necessary to mention local pressure losses
which are caused by the presence of nodes,
branches, pipe fittings, etc.
Any jet disturbance causes a local pressure
loss whose extent depends on the kind and
consequence of the disturbance.
The following methods are commonly used
to calculate local pressure losses: the direct
method and equivalent metre method.
The direct method is based on the specific
Pressure loss [c.a. m]
ζ indicates local drag coefficient
v stands for fluid speed
γ ndicates fluid specific weight [Kg/m3]
g stands for gravity acceleration [m/s2]
[ζ] values related to any kind of pipe fitting
are indicated in table IV, while, thanks to the
nomogram which is shown in picture 8, it is
possible to rapidly calculate [H] value
according to [v] speed and [ζ] drag coefficient
value.
Picture 8
Speed [m/s]
Thanks to equivalent metre method, it is
possible to calculate local pressure losses
considering system [Le] fictitious length
values which are shown in table IV.
These lengths are added to real system
development indicated in metres, thus
achieving a total fictitious length which will be
used to calculate continuous pressure losses
thanks to traditional method.
This calculation can be easily and rapidly
made.
4.6.1.3. Comparison of the two methods
Considering that the two methods are
equivalent, [Le] equivalent length could be
calculated as follows:
R = ζ • (v2/2g) = λ • (v2/2g) • (Le/D)

calculation of each pressure gradient which
is due to fluid flow stoppage.
According to the equivalent metre method,
on the contrary, each obstacle must be repla-
ced by a fictitious system length which deter-
mines the same pressure loss.
4.6.1.1. Direct method
[H] local pressure loss can be calculated
thanks to the following expression:
H = ∑ζ • v2 • γ / 2g
thus achieving the following equation:
Le = (ζ/λ) • D
According to this relation, [Le] value
depends on [λ] friction coefficient, therefore
local pressure losses are not only due to
speed as it is stated by direct method.
Recent experiments seem to confirm this
theory, but even if [ζ] local drag coefficient
can be affected by Reynolds number, its
variation not always corresponds with that of
[λ] friction coefficient.
[5] Drag coefficient [ζ]

8
 Table which is used to calculate local pressure losses 4.7. Deposits, abrasion and corrosion
COBRATHERM system components are
Equivalent metres [eq. m] resistant to the elements which are commonly
present in hydrothermosanitary facility water
and they are also characterised by a very
Kind of pipe fitting Ø 20 Ø 25 Ø 32 Ø 40 Ø 50 Ø 63
[ζ] di 13,2 di 16,6 di 21,2 di 26,6 di 33,2 di 42
smooth surface.
For this reason, it is possible to avoid all
problems which are due to tube corrosion
Coupling 0,25 0,20 0,25 0,30 0,35 0,40 0,45 and those which are due to deposit formation,
thus preventing rusty particles, limestone or
galvanic treatment chips from detaching from
90° elbow joint 2,00 0,90 1,10 1,40 1,70 2,00 2,80 pipe walls.
Thanks to random polypropylene pipe thermal
45° elbow joint 0,60 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70 0,80 1,00 expansion coefficient, which is higher than
that of calcareous deposits, it is possible to
avoid the latter phenomenon.
Tee 1,80 0,80 1,00 1,30 1,60 2,00 2,50 Thanks to tube expansion and shrinkage,
which are higher than those of calcareous
deposits, the latter are detached from the
Reduced tee 3,60 1,60 2,00 2,50 3,20 4,00 5,00
walls and removed.
It is well-known that random polypropylene
Tee 1,30 0,60 0,80 1,00 1,20 1,40 1,80 type 3 is highly abrasion-resistant, even if
water contains suspended impurities and at
an high flow speed.
Reduced tee 2,60 1,10 1,40 1,80 2,30 2,90 3,60
4.8. Lightness
Tee 4,20 1,70 2,20 3,00 3,70 4,60 5,90
COBRATHERM system tubes and pipe
fittings, besides offering all above-mentioned
advantages, are also very light and consequently,
Reduced tee 9,00 3,60 4,60 6,20 8,00 10,0 12,6 they can be easily carried.
Thanks to this characteristic, which can
seem to be obvious and relatively important,
Tee 2,20 0,90 1,20 1,60 2,00 2,40 3,10 it is possible to avoid down times.

Reduced tee 5,00 2,00 2,60 3,50 4,40 5,50 7,00 4.9. Easy installation
Even if COBRATHERM system is manufactured
by using an high technology raw material, it
Male tee 0,80 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70 0,90 1,20 can be achieved according to the same
installation procedures which are followed in
case of traditional steel pipes.
Reducer <2d 0,55 0,30 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70 0,80 As it is shown in the diagram of picture 2,
bathroom hydrosanitary supply system
Reducer 3d 0,85 0,40 0,50 0,70 0,80 1,00 1,20 development is unchanged both in case
of galvanised steel tubes and random
polypropylene tubes.
Male nipples 0,40 0,30 0,40 0,50 0,60 0,70 0,80 Thanks to this characteristic, the installer is
not obliged to carry out unfamiliar operations.
Polyfusion procedure which is necessary for
Reduced Nipples M. 0,85 0,40 0,50 0,70 0,80 1,00 1,30
part connection can be easily and rapidly
followed (see Sect. 6).
Male elbow joint 2,20 0,90 1,20 1,60 2,00 2,40 3,10

Reduced elbow joint M. 3,50 1,40 1,80 2,40 3,10 3,90 4,90

Table IV

9
5. Warning and precautions
5.1. Transport and movement
Products must be handled with care in order
to avoid undesired shocks, deformations,
scratches or incisions.
Tubes and pipe fittings which are faulty as
they are incautiously carried or those which
are subject to building damages must not be
used.
During the installation of under-floor tube and
pipe fittings, make sure that they are not
crushed by people, wheelbarrows etc.
Similarly, in case of underground components,
make sure that sharp parts such as brick or
concrete pieces do not damage tubes or pipe
fittings, by cutting them.
While sticking insulating sheath parts,
check if the kind of glue which is used
contains substances which are chemically
incompatible with COBRATHERM system
tubes and pipe fittings (see the table on
page 4).
During COBRATHERM tube storage before
their installation, keep them in their original
packaging in order to protect them from dirt,
such as dust, oils, fats etc.
5.2 Low temperatures
When installation takes place in cold winter
periods at temperatures which are up to 0
°C, COBRATHERM system components
must be handled with care in order not to
damage them.
As random polypropylene is very rigid at
above-mentioned temperatures, it is necessary
to avoid dynamic stresses such as, for exam-
ple, bar shaking, hammer blows, pipe length
fall from a framework, etc.
In order to create a supply system at maximum
temperatures, it is also necessary to pay
attention to future thermal expansions
which will take place until usual ambient
temperature is reached and to following
expansions which are due to carrier fluid
temperature.
It is necessary to remove ice deposits from
the systems order to prevent them from
causing breaks or cracks.
Picture 9
10
5.3. Exposure to UV rays
Tubes and pipe fittings which are used for
the construction of a supply system are
generally located far from sun rays.
It must be reminded that COBRATHERM
system components must not be installed or
stored in places which are exposed to direct
sun light for more than 6 months (after this
period, special stabiliser no longer has its
effects).
The exposure to sun rays also implies the
direct exposure to UV ultraviolet rays.
UV ray prolonged action causes material
early ageing.
Because of this ageing, product loses its
starting physical and chemical properties.
Picture 10
5.4. Pipe continuous bending
In case of very large radiuses, cold-bending
takes place.
In these cases, it is necessary to use lowest
bending radiuses which are 8 times as higher
than pipe outer diameter, such as, for example:
• ø 20 mm tube ‹ 160 mm lowest radius
• ø 25 mm tube ‹ 200 mm lowest radius
• ø 32 mm tube ‹ 256 mm lowest radius
If, on the contrary, bending radiuses are 8
times as lower than pipe diameter, it is
necessary to heat the tube by using an hot
air jet which acts on the part which is subject
to bending.
During pipe heating,
do not use direct flames.
Picture 11
5.5. Connection with other pipe fittings
The connection between COBRATHERM
system female pipe fittings and other kinds of
male pipe fittings must take place according
to the following procedures:
• do not use, if possible, male pipe fittings
with conic thread.
• use sealing material such as PTFE (Teflon‚)
tape or paste.
• do not use, if possible, hemp as a sealing
material; in any case do not use a large quantity
of it in order to avoid buckling stresses which act
on female pipe fittings during part welding.
• if male conic nipples are inevitably used,
besides following the above-mentioned
instructions, do not to tighten pipe fittings too
much, by forcing them, without causing
female pipe fitting deformation.
Picture 12
5.6. Contact with sharp parts
Tube surface must not be in contact with
sharp edges or other sharp parts, such as,
for example, in case of underground pipes
(see also at 5.1).
Tube outer surface cutting can cause break
propagation phenomenon which is due to
cutting.
6. Installation
In order to achieve a perfect installation,
besides following above-mentioned instructions
and suggestions, it is necessary to carry out
the simple and necessary operations which
are indicated below:
∏ After pipe cutting, remove the burr of the ª In order to achieve system part welding,
two terminals to be welded by using special insert at the same time the tube and pipe
boring gauges, a simple fine with fine fitting into the corresponding polyfuser
teeth or a blade – see picture 15. dies.

∂ First fit the dies having the diameter of the

pipes which must be used on polyfuser
plate.
While fitting the dies, insert those with lower
diameter in outer connection and those with
higher diameter in inner connection – see
picture 13.
The, start polyfuser in order to pre-heat
the equipment; this phase can last from Figura 17
10 to 30 minutes according to ambient
temperature.
Polyfuser is provided with a pre-calibrated Picture 15 A perfect welding is achieved under working
thermostat according to the kind of material conditions which are indicated in Table V.
to be welded (BEC 6006) and a special
warning light switches off when correct plate π make sure that terminals to be welded are
and die working temperature is reached Heating Interval Cooling
perfectly clean ( without dust, fat, oil or Ø [mm]
(250 ÷ 260 °C). [sec.] [sec.] [min]
other substances which are usually present
in the builder’s yard); if necessary, clean
20 5 4 2
them with alcohol. 25 7 4 3
32 8 6 4
∫ by using a common pencil, draw tube fit 40 12 6 4
height on pipe fitting welding bell – see 50 18 6 4
picture 16. 63 24 8 6
Table V

Picture 13
∑ Then, cut the tube to the desired size by
using special shears, making sure that
pipe cutting is perpendicular to tube axis
– see picture 14.
ø 20 mm tubes L = 16 mm
ø 25 mm tubes L = 18 mm After above-mentioned heating time, remove
ø 32 mm tubes L = 20 mm the tube and the pipe fitting from dies and
ø 40 mm tubes L = 22 mm rapidly connect the two parts without rotating
ø 50 mm tubes L = 25 mm them – see picture 18.
ø 63 mm tubes L = 29 mm Insert the tube into pipe fitting bell in order to
reach fit depth which is shown in picture 16
and determined by the action of polyfuser
die. Parts must be perfectly connected within
the time interval indicated in Table V; during
this phase, it is still possible to correct tube
and pipe fitting alignment.
After this working phase, corrections are no
longer allowed.
The presence of an irregular bead shows
that tube and pipe fitting are not correctly
aligned.
Picture 16 The joint which is achieved must be cooled
according to the minimum time interval which
[L] height corresponds with pipe fitting is indicated in the above-mentioned table
welding bell depth and indicates welding before being subject to any kind of stress.
area length. Higher heights cause the
formation of a large bead which is located in
and outside the tube, thus narrowing fluid
passing area.

After having carried out these preliminary

operations and having started polyfuser,
weld various parts together.

Figua 14 Picture 18

11

The joint must be slowly air-cooled – see
picture 19.A sudden cooling process would
generate great inner stresses which act on
welding area.
Picture 19
º If the tube is accidentally perforated by a
nail or a drill bit, it is possible to repair it by
using special dies – see picture 20.
While fitting dies on polyfuser, it is necessary
to use welding plate connection .
Repair the tube following the instructions
indicated below:
- carefully clean and dry the tube length to
be repaired.
- insert mending die and male terminal into
the hole to be repaired.
- insert at the same time [A] mending trunk
into female mending die.
- both tube and mending trunk must
simultaneously reach melting point; see
heating times indicated in Table V.
- insert mending trunk into the hole within
throughput time which is shown in Table V.
- after welding, wait until the joint is totally
cooled, then cut tube shank.
If the hole of the tube to be repaired has a
diameter which is higher than that of the
die or if it is a passing hole, tube can be
repaired by cutting it and using a normal
coupling.
Picture 20
12
7. System testing and washing
7.1. Pressure testing
Supply systems are subject to a pressurisation
test in order to check if leaks are present.
In fact, in most cases, random polypropylene
tube and pipe fitting supply systems are laid
underground, “covered” with the structures
and hidden.
Consequently, before including these
systems in building structure, they must be
necessarily subject to pressure testing in
order to check if leaks are present along the
whole system.
However, the rules which regulate waterworks
testing standards (according to UNI 9182 –
DIN 1988 regulation), not only include this
test, but also other important tests such as
contemporary highest flow test and loudness
test which concern designing and dimensioning
aspect (see Section 8)and not installation
merely “mechanical” aspect.
Therefore, this section only deals with
technical regulations concerning system
pressurisation test, while the following section
deals with calculation procedures.
According to UNI 9182 regulation – Sect. 5 –
Par. 27.2 – Clause 27.2.1.”Cold hydraulic
tests”:
“Tests are conducted on the whole hot and
cold water supply system before fitting taps
and closing holes, inner courtyards, double
ceilings etc., while pipes are subject to a
more than four consecutive hour exposure to
a pressure value which is 1,5 times as higher
than highest working pressure with at least
600 KPa.
Tests are passed if, after this period, the
manometer shows that pressure initial value
has a tolerance which is equal to 30 KPa.
It is possible to carry out separate tests
according to different systems”.
Even if the regulation in question is related to
high density PE-X pipes, it is not referred to
PP-R systems, therefore it is necessary to
make some considerations.
Thanks to random polypropylene characteristics,
when pipes are exposed to a pressure
value which is 1,5 times as higher than
highest working pressure, they are subject to
expansion.
Moreover, in case of PP-R systems, pressure
test must take place at a steady temperature
throughout test period.
Thanks to thermal expansion characteristics
of these pipes, a temperature variation of
10°C can also determine a pressure variation
which ranges between 0,3 and 0,8 bar
(30 ÷ 80 KPa).
As regards DIN 1988 regulation, pressure
testing is divided into three phases: the
pre-check, the main check and the final check.
Each phase is characterised by a specific
pressure and test duration.
During pre-check phase, test pressure is 1,5
times as higher than highest working pressure
and this value must be reached within 30
minutes during the two following tests, with a
10 minute interval between the two tests.
After a further period when pressure value is
reached within 30 minutes, final pressure
value must not fall below 0,6 bar (60 KPa).
During this first check, water leaks must not
be present along the system.
The main check lasts 2 hours using a pressure
value which corresponds with that which was
achieved during preliminary test.
After the check, the pressure value which is
achieved must not be lower than 0,2 bar (20
KPa) compared to initial value.
Finally, the last test phase is characterised
by two system pressurisation alternating
cycles at a pressure of 10 bar (100 KPa) and
1 bar (10 KPa) with a 5 minute interval
between one cycle and another.
After all test phases, water leaks must not be
present along the supply system.
7.2. Supply system washing
Hot and cold water supply system for sanitary
use at man’s disposal must be subject to a
preliminary washing operation in order to
remove all working and installation residues
which are potentially unhealthy.
Thanks to COBRATHERM system component
characteristics, it is only necessary to wash
the system with water in order to guarantee
its inner cleaning.
In fact, apart from dust or building loam,
PP-R tubes are installed without using glues,
solvents or other noxious substances.
Tube and pipe fitting packing and product
non-toxic properties guarantee fluid sliding
inner surface good conditions.
Make sure that oils and fats do not filter
through the system whether accidentally
whether through operator’s negligence, thus
compromising system cleaning.
If supply system lengths are unfinished at the
end of the day, it is highly recommended to
cover open terminals with a clean cloth or
other suitable waterproofing protections.
8. Sanitary facilities
8.1. Introduction
This chapter analyses the procedures and
calculation methods which are necessary
to dimension water system and sanitary
facilities of two bathrooms and a kitchen for
domestic use.
As this manual is not specifically used to cal-
culate sanitary facility dimensioning, it is not
possible to consider every single case.
Therefore, the case in question represents
almost all kinds of sanitary facilities,
considering that bathrooms which are present
both in civil or industrial buildings and in
barracks are dimensioned following the
same procedures.
The calculation example which will be made is
related to hot and cold water supply system Picture 21
for sanitary use, considering the installation
of COBRATHERM random polypropylene
tube and its relative welding pipe fittings.
Calculation example refers to series-connected
sanitary facilities, as it is shown in Picture 21. The house which was taken as a calculation
example and which is shown in Picture 22 is
8.2. General calculation method made up of two bathrooms (a main bathroom
Contemporaneity factor was previously used and a service one with washing machine) Load unit
to dimension water systems and sanitary and a kitchen.
Kind of sani- flow cold hot
facilities.
In other terms, thanks to this method, it was
According to present standard current
meters which are installed in civil and not
tary facility [l/s] water water
possible to determine how many sanitary luxury houses, it is not allowed to use was- Sink 0,15 1,50 1,50
facilities which were connected to a certain hing machines and dishwashers at the same Washbasin 0,10 0,75 0,75
circuit or part of it could be used at the same time, therefore the case in question is not Bidet 0,10 0,75 0,75
time, thus determining the highest supply considered. WC 0,10 3,00 ---
flow during peak periods. Domestic sanitary facilities have the follo- Bathtub/Shower 0,20 1,50 1,50
This effective and tested method was replaced wing general characteristics: Washing machine 0,15 2,00
by UNI 9182 regulation which is based on Dishwasher 0,15 2,00
the concept of “load units” and system
dimensioning is calculated according to this Table VI
parameter.
Calculation examples which are shown on
the following pages are made according to
this method.

8.3. General specifications

In order to make real technical dimensioning
calculations, it is necessary to consider a
standard house which is part of a residential
complex which is made up of 86 apartments
and which is located in the outskirts of a
famous town. As it often happened in the
last few years, it will be possible to install
independent heating systems and hot water
supply systems for sanitary use.
Consequently, main cold water supply
system will be connected to single wall
boilers and bathrooms.
From wall boilers, hot water supply horizontal
system will be connected to every single
domestic sanitary facility.
Considering the kind of generator and the
small horizontal system, it is not possible
to install hot water circulation systems for
Picture 22
sanitary use.

13
8.4 Series-connected sanitary facility supply
system
Considering the specifications which are indicated
in previous paragraph, it is possible to calculate
the flows which are necessary for every single
sanitary facility or supply point.
It is now necessary to determine contemporary
highest flow value which is achieved by a group
of sanitary facilities.
Considering the main bathroom which is made
up of a washbasin, bidet , WC and bathtub, it is
possible to start dimensioning cold water supply
system which will be fed by [A] riser.
If all sanitary facilities were used at the same
time, contemporary highest flow value would be
equal to supply point whole flow, that is to say it
would be equal to 0,5 l/s (see Table VI).
As it is not possible to consider the case in
question, it is necessary to determine which
sanitary facilities can be used or not at the
same time.
According to the traditional method of
“contemporaneity factor”, the above-mentioned
sanitary facilities would reach a highest flow value
which is equal to 0,29 l/s (contemporaneity
factor is equal to 57%).
On the contrary, UNI 9182 regulation is based
on load unit method [lu] and, considering the
data indicated in the table F.2.1. of the
regulation itself, according to the kind and num-
ber of main bathroom sanitary facilities, calcu-
lation would be the following (see l.u. values
indicated in Table VI ):
• cold water: 3,0 lu
• hot water: 6,0 lu
However, in the presence of several sanitary
facilities in the same bathroom, it is possible to
calculate [lu] value of all sanitary facilities (see
regulation F.2.2 table).
As regards bathroom sanitary facilities in
question, whose supply diagram is indicated in
14
picture 23, cold water [lu] value is equal to 4,5 and,
according to the values indicated in Table F.4.1.1.
and in UNI 9182 regulation F.4.1.3. diagram, this
load unit value corresponds with a contemporary
highest flow value which is equal to 0,30 l/s.
Análogamente y con el idéntico razonamiento,
para el agua caliente se conseguirá un valor
total de unidad de carga igual a 2,25 con,
consecuentemente, un caudal máximo contem-
poráneo de 0,25 l/s.
Following the same calculation procedures, hot water
system will reach a load unit total value which is
equal to 2,25 and, consequently, a contemporary
highest flow value which is equal to 0,25 l/s.
Now, it is possible to start dimensioning
bathroom hot and cold water supply system.
First, it is necessary to number every single
system part as indicated in picture 23, then it is
possible to make analytic calculations by using
calculation form which is shown on page 15.
It is necessary to start calculation procedure
from the sanitary fitting which is in the most
unfavourable condition up to supply riser shaft,
thus determining separating pressure value.
As regards cold water supply system, first
consider system length which is connected to
the washbasin and which is indicated by n° [1].
As this system length is connected to a single
sanitary facility, it must be dimensioned according
to sanitary facility highest flow value, which, in
this case, is equal to 0,10 l/s.
According to COBRATHERM tube pressure
loss diagram which is indicated on the right side
of the page and considering the flow value in
question, it is possible to use a pipe having a
diameter of Δ 20 x 3,4 mm and, consequently, a
unit pressure loss value which is equal to 0,005
bar per linear metre.
Then, in order to determine [1] system length
pressure loss from sanitary facility to [x] node, it
is necessary to define system length and pressure
losses which are due to the presence of pipe
fittings, curves etc.
This problem can be solved in two different
ways: the first method consists in evaluating
real system part length, calculating pressure
losses and adding them by using coefficient
method [ζζ].
The second easier procedure is based on
“equivalent metre” method; this means that
pressure losses are calculated considering a
system fictitious length which determines the
same resistance value.
This more practical and rapid method will be
used to make calculation examples, as it is
shown in Table IV on page 9.
Then, it is necessary to calculate [1] system
branch, considering the following values:
• real length: for example 2 metres
• under-sink pipe fitting: 0,9 eq. metres
• 2 90° curves: 1,8 eq. metres
Adding all these values, it is possible to obtain
a length which is equal to 4,7 eq. m.
Consequently, the whole system length [1] up
to [x] node is characterised by a pressure loss
which is equal to:
Δp1 = 4,7 [m eq] • 0,005 [bar/m] = 0,023 [bar]
As in the case of length [1], n° [2] branch
pressure loss will be calculated achieving the
following results:
• sanitary facility flow: 0,10 [l/s]
• branch length: 3,6 [eq. m] and:
• real length = 0,9 [m]
under-bidet pipe fitting = 0,9 [eq. m]
2 90° curves = 1,8 [eq. m]
• COBRATHERM tube: ø 20 x 3,4 mm
• unit pressure loss: 0,005 [bar/m]
consequently:
Δp2 = 3,6 [m eq] • 0,005 [bar/m] = 0,018 [bar]
Picture 23
[1] and [2] branches come from [x] node and,
as it was previously seen, they have two
different pressure loss values.
In order to calculate system dimensioning
and above all to determine the lowest
pressure value which must be guaranteed
when separating from [A] riser, Δp1 higher
value will be considered.
This value will be added to the residual
lowest pressure value which must be
achieved by water supply tube after
having neutralised continuous and local
system resistance.
This pressure value is generally equal to 0,5
[bar] and this means that [x] node lowest
pressure value must be equal to:
P(X) = Δp + 0,5 = 0,523 [bar]
• max. contemporary flow : 0,15 [l/s] As in the case of previous [x] node, comparing
• COBRATHERM tube: ø 20 x 3,4 mm. [y] node resistance values, it results that Δp4
• branch length: 3,9 [eq. m] value is lower than P(y) value, therefore the latter
real length: 2,3 [m] value will be used to make following calculations.
tee = 1,6 [eq. m] N° [5] system length will be connected to
• unit pressure loss: 0,009 [bar/m] three sanitary facilities, whose total load unit
value is equal to lu = 3, consequently, flow
consequently: value is equal to about 0,25 l/c.
Considering, for example, 4,0 [eq. m] n° [5]
Δp3 = 3,9 [m eq] • 0,009 [bar/m] = 0,035 [bar] system length and using ø 20 x 3,4 mm
COBRATHERM tube, [z] node lowest pressure
After having calculated Δp3 value and value will be equal to:
having added it to Δp1 value, it is possible to
determine the following [y] node system P(Z) = Δp + P(y) = (4,0•0,022) + 0,56 = 0,65[bar]
5
lowest working pressure:
N° [6] branch will be calculated according to
P(y) = Δp + Δp = 0,523 + 0,035 = 0,56 [bar] the following procedures, as in the case of
3 1

1 previous branches:
As in the case of previous system lengths, n° • sanitary facility flow: 0,10 [l/s]
[x] node calculation procedures must be [4] branch pressure loss will be calculated • branch length: 4,2 [eq. m]
followed to calculate all other node values. achieving the following results: real length = 1,5 [m]
It is now possible to calculate n° [3] length, elbow joint = 0,9 [eq. m]
considering that system length contemporary • sanitary facility flow : 0,20 [l/s] 2 90° curves = 1,8 [eq. m]
highest flow value can be equal to the whole • branch length: 3,0 [eq. m] • COBRATHERM tube: Δ 20 x 3,4 mm
water flow which is sent to the bidet and real length = 1,2 [m] • unit pressure loss: 0,005 [bar/m]
washbasin, which is equal to 0,20 l/s. male elbow joint = 0,9 [eq. m]
According to the previous contemporaneity 1 90° curve = 0,9 [eq. m] and, consequently:
factor method, flow value would have been • COBRATHERM tube: ø 20 x 3,4 mm
equal to 0,15 l/s, which corresponds with • unit pressure loss: 0,016 [bar/m] Δp6 = 4,2 [m eq] • 0,005 [bar/m] = 0,021[bar]
75% of total value.
As the two sanitary facilities in question consequently: Adding this value to the residual supply
cannot be used at the same time, calculation lowest pressure value, it is possible to obtain
will be made considering length [3] lower Δp4 = 3,0 [m eq] • 0,016 [bar/m] = 0,048[bar] the value which is indicated in Table VII –
flow, thus obtaining the following data: column 9.

COLD WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM CALCULATION

Δp
Length [n°] of sanitary
facil. which l.u. Max. contem. Branch
length
Pipe Unit pressure
diameter loss
Δp
length
Δp total supply
length + Min. p. system
n° are conn. to
thesystem flow [l/s] [eq. m.] ø [mm] [bar/m] [bar] (*)[bar] [bar]
1 1 0,75 0,10 4,7 20 x 3,4 0,005 0,023 0,523 0,53 (x)
2 1 0,75 0,10 3,6 20 x 3,4 0,005 0,018 0,518 ---
3 2 1,50 0,15 3,9 20 x 3,4 0,009 0,035 --- 0,56 (y)
4 1 1,50 0,20 3,0 20 x 3,4 0,016 0,048 0,548 ---
5 3 3,00 0,25 4,0 20 x 3,4 0,022 0,088 --- 0,65 (z)
6 1 0,75 1,10 4,2 20 x 3,4 0,005 0,021 0,521 ---
7 4 4,50 0,30 4,0 20 x 3,4 0,031 0,124+0,025 --- 0,80
(*) – Min. P. = water supply tube residual lowest pressure value (which is generally equal to 0,5 bar) Table VII

HOT WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM CALCULATION Table VIII

Δp
Length [n°] of sanitary
facil. which l.u. Max. contem. Branch
length
Pipe Unit pressure
diameter loss
Δp
length
Δp total supply
length + Min. p. system
n° are conn. to
thesystem flow [l/s] [eq. m.] ø [mm] [bar/m] [bar] (**)[bar] [bar]
1 1 1,50 0,20 4,7 20 x 3,4 0,014 0,066 0,566 0,57 (k)
2 1 0,75 0,10 3,6 20 x 3,4 0,004 0,015 0,515 ---
3 2 1,50 0,20 3,9 20 x 3,4 0,014 0,055 --- 0,63 (w)
4 1 0,75 0,10 3,0 20 x 3,4 0,004 0,012 0,512 ---
5 3 3,00 0,25 6,5 20 x 3,4 0,019 0,123+0,018 --- 0,75(Q)
(*) Corrected values related to fc = 0,848 – see nomogram which is shown in Picture 7 on Page 8. (**) – Min. P. = water supply tube residual lowest pressure value (which is generally equal to 0,5 bar)

15
Now, it is necessary to calculate n° [7] length
until it is separated from the riser.
System length load units are achieved by all
bathroom cold water supply system sanitary
facilities in question, and, as it is shown by
UNI 9182 regulation, they are equal to 4,5 [lu]
having a flow value which is equal to 0,3 [l/s] -
see Table VII – column 3 and 4.
Calculation procedure is unchanged, but it is
necessary to consider system cut-off cock.
As the latter can be available in various
versions and models, it is not possible to
indicate its approximate resistance value in
terms of equivalent metres.
The pressure gradient which is caused by
cut-off cock will be calculated according to a
traditional pressure loss diagram which is
provided by the manufacturer or, in the absence
of this diagram, by using its [Kv] value
according to the following formula:
Δpv = (Q / Kv) 2
indicating “Q” value in [m3/h] and Δpv value in
[bar].
In the case in question, cut-off cock, having
for example a Kv value which is equal to 6,8
and a 0,3 l/s contemporary highest flow, has
the following pressure loss:
Δpv = (3,6 • 0,3) / 6,8) = 0,025 [bar]
2
In conclusion, [7] pipe length total pressure
loss is equal to:
Δp7 = 4,0 [m eq] • 0,031 [bar/m] = 0,124 [bar]
Adding above-mentioned value to cut-off cock
pressure loss, it is possible to obtain the
following equation:
Δp7 = 0,124 [bar] • 0,025 [bar] = 0,149 [bar]
Indicating this value in column 8 of Table VII
and adding it to [z] node lowest pressure
value, it will be possible to achieve the
following pressure value which must be reached
while separating from [A] riser in order to
guarantee the correct [B1] main bathroom
sanitary facility cold water supply system.
ΔpB1 = Δp(Z) [bar] + Δp7 [bar] = 0,80 [bar]
As regards hot water supply system for sanitary
use, calculation procedure is unchanged and
results related to [B1] bathroom are indicated
in Table VIII.
As it can be noticed, in this case lowest
pressure final value is referred to [Q] node –
see picture 24 – and two bathroom supply
systems start from this point.
Considering that [B2] bathroom hot water
16
Boiler
supply system and [B1] bathroom supply
system have the same values, [Q] node must
supply 4,5 load units (even in this case, in
fact, 3 sanitary facilities have the same flow).
According to curve 1 indicated in table F.4.1.3.,
this [lu] value has a highest contemporary flow
which is equal to 0,3 l/s.
R unit drag coefficient [bar/m] is subject to
a [fc] correction factor which corresponds
with a water temperature which is equal to
60 °C (see Pict. 7 on page 8).
Consequently, pipe length will have 25 x 4,2
mm diameter until it is separated from
kitchen washbasin, having a pressure
gradient which is equal to 0,01 [bar/m], which,
considering a 10 [eq.m] length, is equal to
0,10 [bar].
Adding this value to the lowest pressure value
which is necessary for [Q] node bathroom
supply system, it is possible to determine the
pressure value which must be guaranteed
until pipe length is separated from kitchen
washbasin.
Considering [B1] bathroom [Q] node pressure
value, it is possible to achieve the following
equation:
P(J) = P(Q) + Δp(Q-J) = 0,85 [bar]
Then, it is necessary to calculate last length
up to the boiler in order to determine [A1] riser
hot water supply system lowest pressure
value.
Adding [Q] node load units (which are equal
to 4,5) to kitchen washbasin load units
(which are equal to 1,5), it results that final
system length up to the boiler must be
dimensioned by 6 [lu], thus achieving a
contemporary highest flow value which is
always equal to 0,3 l/s (UNI 9182 regulation
– Table F.4.1.3).
Consequently, as in case of previous length,
tube will have 25 x 4,2 mm diameter, unit
pressure loss will be equal to 0,011 [bar/m]
Picture 24
and, considering 5 [eq.m] length, Δp total
value will be equal to:
Δptot = Δp(J) + (5 • 0,01) = 0,90 [bar]
The value which is determined whose pressure
loss is generated by the boiler and relative
fittings is the lowest pressure value which
must be guaranteed during separation from
[A1] riser in order to guarantee correct domestic
sanitary facility hot water supply, considering
that water supply tube has a residual pressure
value which is equal to 0,5 [bar].
Then, main supply system dimensioning
calculation must be made following UNI 9182
regulation specifications.
8.5. Practical considerations
Picture 24 shows hot and cold water supply
systems.
As it can be noticed, [B1] and [B2] bathrooms
are different one from the other: [B1] bathroom
is characterised by traditional under-floor
water systems, while [B2] bathroom is charac-
terised by wall water systems (as it is shown
in picture 21).
Wall water systems less interfere with waste
pipes using fewer connections, therefore they
are more rapidly installed.
From the analysis of Table VII and VIII, it
results that various system lengths are achieved
by using standard diameter tubes.
Standard tubes are generally suitable for all
sanitary facilities, thus standardising all
components, facilitating builder’s yard organi-
sation and speeding up pipe laying.
The standard tube which is commonly used
for the construction of the whole domestic
supply system has 20 x 3,4 mm diameter.
This method causes sanitary facility over-
dimensioning, but it guarantees successful
supply system performances; on the contrary,
tubes having a lower diameter could have a
lower flow and be noisy.
9. Range and dimensions
Art. R100 - M. F welding nipple
Codice dxG E L L1 Lt Conf.
R100B2004 20 x 1/2” 29 16 15 59 10/130
R100B2005 20 x 3/4” 36,5 16 15 63 5/80
R100B2504 25 x 1/2” 36,5 19 15 63 10/120
R100B2505 25 x 3/4” 36,5 194 15 63 5/80
R100B3206 32 x 1” 45 24 17 73,2 5/50
R100B4007 40 x 1”1/4 57 23 18 81 1/30
R100B5008 50 x 1”1/2 70 27 19 81 1/20
R100B6309 63 x 2” 88 30 19 89 1/18

Art. R101 - F.F. welding coupling

Codice dxG E E1 L L1 Lt Conf.
R101B2020 20 x 20 29 29 16 16 34 10/250
R101B2520 25 x 20 36,5 36,5 19 19 41 10/150
R101B2525 25 x 25 36,5 36,5 19 19 41 10/150
R101B3220 32 x 20 45 36,5 24 19 46,5 10/100
R101B3225 32 x 25 45 36,5 24 19 46,5 5/90
R101B3232 32 x 32 45 45 24 24 52 5/70
R101B4040 40 x 40 56,5 56,5 22 22 50 1/55
R101B5050 50 x 50 70 70 27 27 60 1/30
R101B6363 63 x 63 88 88 29 29 64 1/20

Art. R102 - F. F welding nipple

Codice dxG E L Lt Conf.
R102B2004 20 x 1/2” 29 16 44 5/140
R102B2005 20 x 3/4” 36,5 16 48 5/100
R102B2504 25 x 1/2” 36,5 19 48 5/100
R102B2505 25 x 3/4” 36,5 19 48 5/100
R102B3205 32 x 3/4” 45 24 56,5 5/60
R102B3206 32 x 1” 45 24 56,5 5/60
R102B4007 40 x 1”1/4 56 23 63 1/35
R102B5008 50 x 1”1/2 70 27 63 1/20
R102B6309 63 x 2” 88 30 70 1/20

Art. R103 - F.F. welding curve

Codice d x d1 E L Z Conf.
R103B2020 20 x 20 29 16 28 10/180
R103B2525 25 x 25 36,5 19 33 5/90
R103B3232 32 x 32 45 24 42 5/50
R103B4040 40 x 40 56 22 44 1/25
R103B5050 50 x 50 70 27 53 1/15
R103B6363 63 x 63 88 28,5 61,5 1/8

17
 Art. R104 - M. threaded F welding curve
Codice dxG E L L1 Z Z1 Conf.
R104B2004 20 x 1/2” 29 16 15 28 57 5/100
R104B2504 25 x 1/2” 36,5 19 15 33 59 5/60
R104B2505 25 x 3/4” 36,5 19 15 33 59 5/60
R104B3205 32 x 3/4” 45 24 15 42 67 5/35
R104B3206 32 x 1” 45 24 17 42 69 5/35

Art. R105 - F. threaded F welding curve

Codice dxG E L Z Z1 Conf.
R105B2004 20 x 1/2” 29 16 28 41 5/100
R105B2504 25 x 1/2” 36,5 19 33 44 5/70
R105B2505 25 x 3/4” 36,5 19 33 44 5/70
R105B3205 32 x 3/4” 45 24 42 52 5/40
R105B3206 32 x 1” 45 24 42 52 5/40

Art. R106 - F. threaded F welding curve with 2 hole supporting flange

Codice dxG A E L Z Z1 Conf.
R106B2004 20 x 1/2” 50 29 16 28 41 5/60
R106B2504 25 x 1/2” 50 36,5 19 33 41 5/60

Art. R107 - Tee with F. welding connections

Codice d x d1 x d E E1 L L1 Z Z1 Conf.
R107B202020 20 x 20 x 20 29 29 16 16 28 28 5/120
R107B252525 25 x 25 x 25 36,5 36,5 19 19 33 33 5/70
R107B323232 32 x 32 x 32 45 45 24 24 42 42 5/40
R107B404040 40 x 40 x 40 56 56 22 22 44 44 1/20
R107B505050 50 x 50 x 50 70 70 27 27 53 53 1/15
R107B636363 63 x 63 x 63 88 88 28,5 28,5 61,5 61,5 1/8
R107B252025 25 x 20 x 25 36,5 36,5 19 16 33 33 5/70
R107B322032 32 x 20 x 32 45 36,5 24 16 42 37 5/50
R107B322532 32 x 25 x 32 45 36,5 24 19 42 37 5/40
R107B402040 40 x 20 x 40 56 36,5 22 16 44 41 1/25
R107B402540 40 x 25 x 40 56 36,5 22 19 44 41 1/25
R107B403240 40 x 32 x 40 56,5 45 22 21 44 41 1/25
R107B503250 50 x 32 x 50 70 45 26 21 53 50 1/15
R107B504050 50 x 40 x 50 70 56 26 22 53 50 1/15
R107B633263 63 x 32 x 63 88 45 29 21 62 67 1/9
R107B634063 63 x 40 x 63 88 56 29 22 62 60 1/9
R107B635063 63 x 50 x 63 88 70 29 27 62 60 1/9

18
Art. R108 - M. threaded F. welding tee
Codice d x d1 x d E L L1 Z Z1 Conf.
R108B200420 20 x 1/2” x 20 29 16 15 28 56 5/80
R108B250425 25 x 1/2” x 25 36,5 19 15 33 59 5/50
R108B250525 25 x 3/4” x 25 36,5 19 15 33 59 5/50
R108B320532 32 x 3/4” x 32 45 24 15 42 67 5/30
R108B320632 32 x 1” x 32 45 24 17 42 69 5/30

Art. R109 - F. threaded F. welding tee

Codice dxGxd E L L1 Z Z1 Conf.
R109B200420 20 x 1/2” x 20 29 16 28 41 5/100
R109B250425 25 x 1/2” x 25 36,5 19 33 44 5/60
R109B250525 25 x 3/4” x 25 36,5 19 33 44 5/60
R109B320532 32 x 3/4” x 32 45 24 42 52 5/35
R109B320632 32 x 1” x 32 45 24 42 52 5/35

Art. R111 - M.F. welding curve

Codice d x d1 E L Z Z1 Conf.
R111B2020 20 x 20 29 16 28 35 5/180
R111B2525 25 x 25 36,5 19 33 41 5/100
R111B3232 32 x 32 45 21 38 47 5/50

Art. R112 - F.F. 45° welding curve

Codice d x d1 E L Z Conf.
R112B2020 20 x 20 29 16 22 10/200
R112B2525 25 x 25 36,5 19 26 10/120
R112B3232 32 x 32 45 24 33 5/60
R112B4040 40 x 40 56 22 31,5 1/40
R112B5050 50 x 50 70 26 40 1/20
R112B6363 63 x 63 88 29 44 1/10

Art. R113 - By-pass curve with M. welding terminals

Codice d L Z Conf.
R113B2020 Ø 20 150 35 1/100
R113B2520 Ø 25 180 37 1/60
R113B3232 Ø 32 200 42 1/40

Art. R114 - Inset cut-off cock with F.F. welding connections

Codice d x d1 E L Z Z1 Conf.
R114B2020 20 x 20 36,5 16 46 80 1/20
R114B2525 25 x 25 36,5 19 46 80 1/20

19
 Art. R115 - M.F. welding reducer
Codice d x d1 E L L1 Lt Conf.
R115B2520 25 x 20 29 16 17 34 10/250
R115B3220 32 x 20 36,5 16 20 41 10/150
R115B3225 32 x 25 36,5 19 20 41 10/150
R115B4020 40 x 20 29 16 25 42 1/160
R115B4025 40 x 25 36,5 19 25 43 1/140
R115B4032 40 x 32 45 19 22 47 1/120
R115B5025 50 x 25 36,5 19 30 50 1/80
R115B5032 50 x 32 45 20 30 52 1/70
R115B5040 50 x 40 52 23 28 52 1/60
R115B6332 63 x 32 45 20 30 55 1/45
R115B6340 63 x 40 56 22 30 55 1/40
R115B6350 63 x 50 70 25,5 30 60 1/30

Art. R117 - Straight pipe fitting with flat seat pipe union
Codice dxG E L Lt Ch Conf.
R117B2005 20 x 3/4” 29 16 58 30 5/120
R117B2506 25 x 1” 36,5 19 64 37 5/80
R117B3207 32 x 1”1/4 45 24 75,5 47 1/40

Art. R118 - Elbow joint with flat seat pipe union

Codice dxG E L Z Z1 Ch Conf.
R118B2005 20 x 3/4” 29 16 28 55 30 5/100
R118B2506 25 x 1” 36,5 19 33 60 37 5/50
R118B3207 32 x 1”1/4 45 24 42 71 47 1/30

Art. R135 - Welding female cap

Codice d E L Lt Conf.
R135B20 20 29 16 22 10/350
R135B25 25 36,5 19 27 10/260
R135B32 32 45 24 33 10/130
R135B40 40 56 22 37 1/90
R135B50 50 70 28 45 1/40
R135B63 63 88 30 45 1/30

Art. R400 - PP-R random polypropylene tubes which are available in bars
Codice d Sp L Conf.
R400B20 20 3,4 4 mt 100 mt
R400B25 25 4,2 4 mt 100 mt
R400B32 32 5,4 4 mt 10/160
R400B40 40 6,7 4 mt 60 mt
R400B50 50 8,4 4 mt 20 mt
R400B63 63 10,5 4 mt 16 mt

20
 Castegnato, September 23 1998

CONFORMITY DECLARATION
TIEMME RACCORDERIE S.p.A. firm, which has its head office in Via Cavallera 6/A – 25045
– Castegnato (Bs), and manufactures hydrothermosanitary system parts, according to the
regulations which are in force and in particular:

• 46/90 Law – Art. 7 – “System safety rules”

• P.D. n° 477 of December 6 1991 – Art. 5 – “46/90 Law enforcement regulations”

DECLARES
• that COBRATHERM tubes and pipe fittings are manufactured by using random copolymer
Polypropylene of type 3 – BEC 6006 – according to national laws which are in force concerning
the materials which are used for the construction of pipes which convey foodstuffs.

• that PP-R material which is used is suitable for the construction of drinking water supply
tubes and pipe fittings, according to ONORM B5014 regulation.

• that PP-R material which is used complies with DIN 8078 – ONORM B5174 and
BGA KTW regulations.

• that, according to DIBT, PP-R material which is used is a suitable raw material.

• that COBRATHERM tubes are dimensioned according to DIN 8077 regulation.

• that quality control tests are conducted according to the following product regulations which
are in force:
- ISO (1133 – R1183 – R527 – 2039 – 179/2D – 179/1eA – 306 – 75/B)
- DIN (53735 – 53479 – 53455 – 53457 – 53479 – 53460 – 53461 – 52612 – 53483 – 53481)
- VDE 0304 (1-4)

TIEMME S.p.A.
Technical Manager

21
 E mail: info@tiemme.com
Tel. ++39 030 2142211 r.a. - Telefax ++39 030 2142206
Via Cavallera 6/A (Loc.Barco) - 25045 Castegnato (BS) - Italy
E’ vietata la riproduzione totale o parziale del presente catalogo, senza preventiva autorizzazione scritta. 9999C0003GB
I dati tecnici e descrittivi potranno essere variati senza alcun obbligo di avviso preventivo - Release 1/98