(plasteurope) -- Polymer pipework specialist Rehau (Germany) has officially opened the first UK facility to produce pre-insulated pipework for district heating and biomass applications at its factory in Blaenau, Gwynedd / North Wales.
Sales of the "Rauvitherm" pipework have more than doubled in the UK over the last 12 months, driven by the buoyant biomass and district heating markets, and, more recently, by the impact of the UK’s Renewable Heat Incentive programme. Rehau expects sales to increase further and has established the new production facility as part of a reported GBP 3m (EUR 3.8m) investment programme.
Rauvitherm pre-insulated, crosslinked PE (PEX) pipework (see MRC news ) combines the key advantages of high flexibility with high thermal insulating properties. The open cell insulation is provided by layers of PEX foam encased in an HDPE outer jacket, which is longitudinally watertight. The bonded outer layer of insulation prevents water ingress, even if the outer jacket is punctured. The pipework, containing one or two pipes, can be produced in lengths up to 350 metres and, during installation, uses Rehau’s proven “Everloc” compression sleeve jointing system to provide a permanent, leak-free joint.
Rehau employs close to 200 staff at its Blaenau site, better known for its production of rigid PVC window systems. It also has a second factory in Wales, at Amlwch in Anglesey.
MRC