Aquarius

Lead-Free uPVC Piping for Potable Water

Astral Aquarius is a lead-free, uPVC piping system for potable water that was introduced by Astral for the first time in India in 2004.

  • This system of uPVC pipes and fittings is used for cold water application.
  • The maximum service temperature of this piping system is 60°C.
  • In earlier days, PVC pipes with threads were used in these applications and it caused joint leakage, provided less hydraulic strength due to threads, and the overall installation was more complicated. Aquarius uPVC pipes and fittings are solvent weld joint systems that impart double pressure bearing capacity than conventional PVC threaded pipes.

 

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    Features & Benefits

    • Lead-Free
    • Strong & Light Weight
    • Easy to Install
    • Fire Resistant
    • Durable
    • UV Stabilized
    • Safe Material for Drinking Water
    • Maximum Flow Rate
    • Good Insulator
    • Chemical Resistance
    • Wide Range

    Fields of Application

    • Cold Water Plumbing Application
    • Water Distribution Mains
    • Industrial Process Lines
    • Swimming Pools
    • Plants & Tanning Plants
    • Hand Pumps
    • Sugar Industries
    • Paper & Distillery Industries
    • Salt Water Line
    • Coal Washing & Ash Handling
    • Ring Lines
    • Down Take Lines
    • Aggressive Corrosive Fluid Transportation

    Standards & Specifications

    • ASTM D 1784
    • ASTM D 1785
    • ASTM D 2466
    • ASTM D 2467
    • ASTM D 2564
    • ASTM F 1498
    • ASTM D 2774
    • ISO 7/1

    Available Sizes

    • SCH 40: 15 mm (½”) to 300 mm (12”) (IPS)
    • SCH 80: 15 mm (½”) to 300 mm (12”) (IPS)

    FAQs

    Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride pipes, or uPVC pipes, are a popular choice for plumbing applications in buildings. These pipes are constructed from a rigid form of PVC plastic, known for its durability and resistance to corrosion.
    They are lightweight and easier to install which makes them a cost-effective solution. Their primary function is to transport cold water.

    Lead is a metal with no biological benefit to humans. If excessive lead is consumed, it can damage crucial parts like the kidneys, nervous system, and reproductive system. It can also cause high blood pressure and anaemia.
    Lead is especially harmful to foetuses, young children, and pregnant women. At very high levels, lead can cause convulsions, coma, and even death. Lead can be dissolved in water when lead-free pipes are used for the transportation of water.
    The use of lead-free uPVC pipes like the Astral Aquarius is favourable for potable water transportation.

    The Astral Aquarius uPVC system design and standards prioritise engineering safety factors to ensure a prolonged service life. These lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings offer excellent durability with a service life span of 50 years under normal conditions.
    It is highly resistant to corrosion, scale build-up, and electrolysis, even in environments where water, solid ends, or atmospheric conditions are aggressive. Astral holds strong confidence that these pressure pipes will deliver a superior service life comparable to alternative materials available in the market or surpass them.

    Astral uPVC pipes can be installed with at least a 25% speed advantage as compared to metal piping systems. This saves time and translates into financial benefits through reduced tool costs and insurance advantages.
    Additionally, with the fluctuating metal price structure, Astral Aquarius offers a consistent cost advantage in terms of materials, with savings of up to 50-60% compared to traditional metal alternatives.

    The thermal conductivity of a metal system is 2500 times higher than that of uPVC pipes. The enhanced insulation properties of uPVC pipes and fittings offer long-term energy savings for homeowners or tenants who prioritise energy efficiency.
    The Astral Aquarius system excels by effectively retaining water temperature for a significantly extended duration compared to metal tubing.

    When passing through wood studs, there is no need for additional provisions. However, when dealing with metal studs, it is important to take precautions to protect the pipe from abrasion and prevent noise.
    Various forms of protection can be employed in such cases, such as plastic-insulated rubber grommets, pipe insulation, or similar methods. These measures help safeguard the pipe and ensure proper functioning without any disruptive noises.

    Astral always emphasises the use of solvent cement that is specifically manufactured to meet the requirements of ASTM D 2564. It is important to note that all-purpose solvent cement should not be used. Instead, primers manufactured for uPVC pipes are preferred for this purpose.
    For detailed information, please refer to the installation procedure outlined in the manual. Following the guidelines ensures proper bonding and installation of the pipes.

    Most cracks in uPVC pipes are caused by rough handling during transportation while being stored at the wholesaler or on the job site. The majority of these cracks tend to happen during colder weather when temperatures drop below 10°C. To minimise issues:
    A) Educate the installers about potential problems and instruct them to handle the pipes appropriately. B) Use a saw or a circular tubing cutter with a plastic tubing blade to cut the pipe.
    C) Inspect the ends of the pipe thoroughly before making a joint. If a crack is visible, cut off the split portion before proceeding.
    D) In cold weather, briefly gripping the pipe near the cut for about 10 seconds can warm it slightly, which makes it easier to cut and reduces potential issues.

    Extensive tests conducted at reputable universities and independent laboratories have verified that uPVC pipes and fittings surpass metal piping systems when it comes to water quality effects.
    The Astral Aquarius pipes and fittings are manufactured using a lead-free compound, which makes them highly favoured in terms of health and safety. The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of uPVC is 45, which indicates that it is not easily combustible in the atmosphere.
    Once the source of ignition is removed, uPVC ceases to burn. These characteristics further contribute to the reliability and safety of uPVC systems in various applications.

    UV radiation has varying effects on different polymers. For materials like PP and PE, UV acts as a catalyst for oxidation, breaks down polymer chains, and causes weakness in pipes and fittings. However, uPVC undergoes dehydrochlorination, not oxidation. This process does not significantly break down polymer chains and mainly results in surface discolouration.
    While impact resistance may decrease due to inefficient impact modifiers, stress-bearing capacity remains largely unaffected. This is primarily an issue during installation, before the pipes are exposed to sunlight. If parts of the piping system are exposed to light, apply standard exterior latex paint to provide sufficient protection.

    Indeed, it is feasible to use Astral Aquarius at temperatures around 10-1°C. The normal temperature range of uPVC compound material is typically between 23°C to 60°C. As the temperature drops below 23°C, uPVC pipes, like other thermoplastic materials, become brittle.
    Consequently, its impact properties are diminished at lower temperatures. However, the hydrostatic strength of the material remains unaffected which enables its use at lower temperatures. Nonetheless, careful and thorough engineering design considerations are necessary when operating at such low temperatures to mitigate water hammer and impact-related concerns effectively.

    Sound tends to travel through materials with the highest possible velocity. In the case of metal systems, sound travels because the velocity of sound in metal is higher than that in water which leads to noise emissions.
    However, in uPVC pipes and fittings, the sound will travel through the water as the velocity of sound in water is higher than that in uPVC. As a result, uPVC piping systems are designed to be as quiet as possible, minimise noise transmission, and ensure a quieter operation overall.

    The formation of scale build-up in pipes is influenced by the roughness of the pipe, as indicated by the Hazen-Williams "C" factor. The Hazen-Williams formula is used to calculate friction head losses in a piping system. A higher value of the "C" factor corresponds to less friction and reduced head loss. In metal systems, corrosion leads to a significant reduction in the "C" factor which results in increased head loss and scale build-up.
    However, with Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes, corrosion is not a concern, and as a result, scale build-up is inhibited. These pipes and fittings ensure a consistent and smooth flow which minimises friction and reduces the likelihood of scale accumulation in the system.

    In the plumbing market, IPS (Iron Pipe Size) and CTS (Copper Tube Size) systems are used widely. It is crucial to have the ability to interchange between these systems with ease. Recognising this market requirement, Astral Pipes has developed special transition fittings to address this need.
    These fittings enable the connection of IPS systems (SCH 40 & SCH 80) to CTS systems (SDR 11 & SDR 13.5). The transition fittings can be joined using a one-step solvent cement to provide customers with a fast, efficient, and simple solution to connect both systems. These transition fittings are available in sizes ranging from 15 mm (1/2") to 50 mm (2").

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    Why use Astral Aquarius Lead-free UPVC Piping for Potable Water?

    Astral Aquarius emerges as a premier choice when selecting uPVC pipes for potable water in India, due to its superior quality and comprehensive range of products. They are distinguished by several key features that make them ideal for potable water systems.

    • Lead-free and Non-toxic

    Astral Aquarius pressure pipes are lead-free and non-toxic, which ensures that the water remains safe for consumption. They are best suitable for residential and industrial applications where the health of users is a top priority.

    • User-friendly Setup

    Astral Aquarius pressure pipes are designed for easy installation, which reduces the time and labour costs associated with plumbing projects.

    • Wide Range and Versatility

    The Astral Aquarius product line includes a wide range of pipes and fittings, available in sizes from 15 mm (½”) to 300 mm (12”). This extensive range ensures that the pipes and fittings are a suitable option for various applications, from small residential setups to large industrial systems.Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes come in two classes:

    SCH 40: Ideal for standard pressure applications

    SCH 80 pipes: Designed for high-pressure environments and offer versatility to meet different needs

    • Comprehensive Plumbing Solution

    As a leading manufacturer of CPVC pipes and fittings, Astral offers a comprehensive plumbing solution. With the addition of uPVC pressure pipes and fittings, we provide a one-stop source for all plastic piping needs.

    Description

    Lead-Free uPVC Piping for Potable Water

    Astral Aquarius is a lead-free, uPVC piping system for potable water that was introduced by Astral for the first time in India in 2004.

    • This system of uPVC pipes and fittings is used for cold water application.
    • The maximum service temperature of this piping system is 60°C.
    • In earlier days, PVC pipes with threads were used in these applications and it caused joint leakage, provided less hydraulic strength due to threads, and the overall installation was more complicated. Aquarius uPVC pipes and fittings are solvent weld joint systems that impart double pressure bearing capacity than conventional PVC threaded pipes.

     

    Other Products

    What is UPVC Pipes?

    Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC) pipes are a type of plastic piping widely used for plumbing and water supply applications. These pipes do not contain plasticisers, which makes them durable and resistant to corrosion. UPVC pipes are ideal for transporting potable water, industrial liquids and chemicals due to their non-toxic and chemical-resistant nature.

    One of the key benefits of UPVC pipes is their lightweight yet robust construction. UPVC pipes are easy to handle and install, which reduces labour costs. UPVC pipes do not react with water or other transported substances. This ensures long-term performance without degradation.

    Additionally, UPVC pipes offer excellent resistance to UV radiation, which makes them suitable for outdoor applications. Whether for residential, commercial or industrial use, UPVC pipes provide a cost-effective, low-maintenance solution for efficient fluid transport.

    UPVC Pipes and Fittings: An Overview

    UPVC pipes and fittings are integral components of modern plumbing and drainage systems. Designed for high durability and superior performance, these UPVC pipes ensure leak-proof and corrosion-resistant installations.

    UPVC pipes and fittings are available in various sizes and pressure ratings to suit different applications. From potable water distribution to industrial chemical handling, UPVC pipes offer a safe and reliable piping solution. The smooth inner surface of UPVC pipes minimises friction loss, which enhances water flow efficiency.

    Common types of UPVC fittings include elbows, tees, couplings, reducers and valves. These UPVC pipes and fittings enable easy customisation and extension of piping networks. This ensures flexibility in system design. Moreover, UPVC pipes and fittings are environmentally friendly as they are recyclable and have a long service life. Their ability to withstand extreme weather conditions makes them a preferred choice for indoor and outdoor installations.

    Advantages of UPVC Pipes and Fittings 

    UPVC pipes are widely recognised for their exceptional benefits, which makes them a popular choice for various applications. Below are some of the key advantages of UPVC pipes:

    • Durability and Longevity with UPVC Pipes: UPVC pipes have a high tensile strength and are resistant to wear and tear, which ensures a long service life. Their robust construction prevents cracking and leakage. This makes them a reliable option for fluid transportation.
    • Corrosion and Chemical Resistance of UPVC Pipes: Unlike metal pipes, UPVC pipes do not corrode or rust. They are resistant to a wide range of chemicals, which makes them suitable for transporting industrial fluids and wastewater.
    • Lightweight and Easy Installation with UPVC Pipes: The lightweight nature of UPVC pipes makes them easy to handle and install, reducing labour and transportation costs. They can be quickly joined using solvent cement, which eliminates the need for complex installation procedures.
    • Low Maintenance are UPVC Pipes: UPVC pipes require minimal maintenance over their lifespan. They do not develop scale or deposits. This ensures smooth water flow and reduces the need for frequent cleaning or repairs.
    • Non-toxic and Safe for Water Supply with UPVC Pipes: UPVC pipes are free from harmful chemicals, which makes them safe for carrying potable water. They do not alter the taste, odour or quality of water, ensuring a clean and safe supply.
    • High UV Resistance with UPVC Pipes: These pipes can withstand prolonged exposure to sunlight without deteriorating, which makes them ideal for outdoor installations.
    • UPVC Pipes Are Cost-Effective: With their long lifespan and low maintenance requirements, UPVC pipes and fittings provide a cost-effective plumbing solution for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

    What Are the Types of UPVC Pipes?

    UPVC pipes come in different types to cater to diverse applications. Here are some of the most commonly used types of UPVC pipes:

    • UPVC Pressure Pipes: UPVC pipes are designed for high-pressure water distribution, these pipes are used in municipal and industrial applications.
    • UPVC Plumbing Pipes: UPVC pipes are widely used in residential and commercial plumbing systems for potable water supply.
    • UPVC Drainage Pipes: Ideal for waste and stormwater drainage, UPVC drainage pipes ensure efficient flow and prevent blockages.

    These are the types of UPVC pipes designed to meet specific industry standards, which ensure high performance and reliability in various applications. If you are curious about what is difference between PVC and UPVC, the next section provides a detailed explanation.

    What is Difference Between PVC and UPVC?

    The primary difference between PVC and UPVC lies in their composition and usage. PVC pipes contain plasticizers that make them flexible and suitable for applications like cable insulation. In contrast, UPVC stands for Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, meaning it does not contain plasticisers. This makes it rigid and more durable.

    UPVC pipes are commonly used for plumbing, water supply and industrial applications due to their strength, chemical resistance and longevity, whereas PVC pipes are more suited for flexible applications such as wiring and packaging.

    Choosing UPVC pipes ensures a long-lasting and efficient piping system for various applications.

    Why Choose Astral Aquarius for the Plumbing System of Potable Water?

    In 2004, Astral introduced the Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings for potable water, which was a significant milestone in the Indian piping industry. This innovation in uPVC pipes was designed specifically for cold water applications, with a maximum service temperature of 60°C. Traditionally, PVC pipes with threads were used in these applications, but they often caused leakage. They offered less hydraulic strength due to threading and posed installation challenges.

    The Aquarius system, with its solvent weld joint, offers double the pressure-bearing capacity compared to conventional PVC threaded pipes. This enhancement of UPVC pipes and fittings ensures a leak-proof installation and simplifies the overall process, which makes it more efficient and reliable.

    Astral’s Lead-Free uPVC Pipes & Fittings 

    With an excellent commitment to quality and safety, Astral’s lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings have set new standards in the industry.

    Lead is a naturally occurring element with no known biological benefits for humans and its consumption can lead to severe health issues, including lead poisoning. Lead contamination in drinking water has been linked to numerous health problems, especially in children, that include developmental delays, learning difficulties and various physical ailments.

    Recognising the hazards of lead, Astral pioneered the use of lead-free piping for potable water, which ensures safe and reliable water transport solutions. The significance of lead-free uPVC pipes cannot be overstated.

    • Astral’s lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings have surpassed all quality benchmarks, which makes them a top choice for households and industries alike.
    • By eliminating lead from its uPVC pipes and fittings, Astral ensures that the water transported through these pipes remains pure and safe for consumption.
    • This commitment to health and safety not only aligns with global best practices but also sets a benchmark for other manufacturers to follow when it comes to uPVC pipes.

    Key Properties of Astral Aquarius Lead-free UPVC Pipes

    • Strong and Lightweight: The Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings are robust, durable and boast high tensile and impact strength. Despite its strength, the system is lightweight, which makes transportation and installation easier and more efficient.
    • Durable: Free from issues like rusting, weathering and chemical reactions, the Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes and fittings guarantee a service life of over 50 years. This durability ensures long-term reliability and cost-effectiveness for users. The long lifespan of these pipes means fewer replacements and repairs and significant savings over time.
    • Fire Resistant: Difficult to ignite inherently, the Astral Aquarius system stops burning once the heat source is removed. These uPVC pipes and fittings provide exceptional performance, which exhibits lower combustibility, reduced flammability, minimal flame propagation and decreased heat release. Recent advancements have further improved their resistance to acid emissions, smoke generation and overall fire resistance. They are particularly suitable for applications in environments where fire safety is a concern.
    • UV Stabilised: Designed for outdoor use, the Astral Aquarius lead-free plumbing system can withstand exposure to sunlight. However, for added protection, Astral recommends using a standard grade of exterior latex paint (water-based). UV stabilisation ensures that the uPVC pipes and fittings do not degrade or lose their properties when exposed to sunlight. This maintains their performance and longevity.
    • Easy to Install: The Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings can be easily cut, shaped, welded and joined, which simplifies the installation process. This ease of installation reduces labour costs and minimises the time required to complete plumbing projects.
    • Safe Material for Drinking Water: Made from non-toxic, lead-free materials, Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes are safe for transporting potable water. These uPVC pipes and fittings meet international standards for safety and health. Ensuring the safety of drinking water is paramount and Astral Aquarius pipes ensure that water remains free from contaminants.
    • Maximum Flow Rate: With a smooth inner surface, Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes ensure high flow rates and minimal frictional losses. High flow rates mean efficient water transport, which reduces energy consumption in pumping and ensures adequate water supply even in high-demand situations.
    • Chemical Resistance: uPVC pipes do not react much to minerals, acids, alkalis, salts, or paraffinic hydrocarbon solutions. This resistance to chemicals makes Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes suitable for a wide range of industrial applications where exposure to harsh substances is common.
    • Good Insulator: As non-conductors of electricity, Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes and fittings make the plumbing system safe to use with electrical tools and equipment. This property adds an extra layer of safety, especially in environments where electrical installations are close to plumbing systems.
    • Wide Range: The Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes are available in sizes ranging from 1⁄2” (15 mm) to 12” (300 mm). It includes a wide range of fittings, transition fittings, valves and specially designed brass-insert fittings to accommodate various design requirements.

    Versatile Applications of uPVC Piping Systems

    Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings are versatile and suitable for various applications, including the following:

    • Cold Water Plumbing Application: Ideal for residential and commercial cold water supply systems.
    • Water Distribution Mains: Used in municipal and industrial water distribution networks.
    • Industrial Process Lines: Suitable for transporting industrial fluids.
    • Swimming Pools: Perfect for pool water circulation systems.
    • Plants and Tanning Plants: Used in various plant operations requiring robust piping solutions.
    • Hand Pumps: Reliable for hand pump installations in rural areas.
    • Sugar, Paper and Distillery Industries: Suitable for fluids

    How to Install UPVC Pipe and Fittings?

    For optimal performance and durability of uPVC pipes and fittings, follow these installation steps:

    Step 1: Cutting the uPVC Pipe

    Step 1: Cutting the uPVC Pipe

    Ensure a perfectly square cut using a mitre saw, mechanical cut-off saw, or plastic wheel cutter. Angled cuts may result in joint failure when installing uPVC Pipes.

    Step 2: Preparing the UPVC Pipe End

    Step 2: Preparing the UPVC Pipe End

    After cutting, use a knife edge, file or deburring tool to remove all burrs from both inside and outside the uPVC Pipe. Create a 10°-15° chamfer (bevel) on the pipe end. Wipe away any dirt, grease or moisture with a clean, dry cloth.

    Dry Fit

    Step 3: Test Fitting UPVC Pipes and Fittings

    Gently push the uPVC Pipe into the fitting socket to check compatibility. Neither excessively tight nor loose connections are suitable—aim for a proper fit between uPVC Pipes and fittings.

    Applicator

    Step 4: Selecting the Right Applicator for UPVC Pipes

    Choose an applicator approximately half the diameter of the uPVC Pipe. An oversized applicator will push too much cement into small uPVC fittings, while an undersized one won’t apply sufficient cement to larger uPVC Pipe systems.

    Cement

    Step 5: Applying Cement to uPVC Pipes and Fittings

    Cover the uPVC Pipe exterior with a complete, uniform layer of cement. Apply a moderate amount to the uPVC fitting’s interior surface.

    Join Pipe & Fitting

    Step 6: Completing the uPVC Pipe Joint

    • Insert the uPVC Pipe into the fitting socket until it sits at the bottom. Rotate the pipe a quarter turn and maintain pressure until the uPVC Pipe stays in position.
    • Clean off any excess cement from the outside. A properly formed connection between uPVC Pipes and fittings will display a continuous cement bead around the circumference.
    • Remember to observe all relevant safety precautions when working with UPVC Pipes.
    • Installation of uPVC Pipes and fittings should be carried out professionally following local plumbing, fire and building regulations.
    • Correct installation techniques for uPVC Pipes are vital to avoid system failures, property damage and personal injury.

    Use uPVC Pipes and fittings as specified by local regulations and applicable ASTM standards. Always adhere to manufacturer guidelines for all associated uPVC Pipe products.


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