Pipework

[mattyc]

Hi All,

I am looking into sorting out my pipework.

I build liquid cooled computers and use PETG or acrylic tube that I can heat and bend into any shape I need.

Has anyone used this sort of pipe before?

Also does anyone know what plastics are normally used for the pipes or filters?

Thanks

 

[Aquahorti]

My only experience with plastic/acrylic pipes are those that comes with EHEIM classic canister filters, and the Dennerle Scapers filter, and while they work just as well as those made from glass, they do get scratched over time.

I looked into having among other materials, acrylic, coated with vapor depositing to change the optical as well as the resistance properties. There is a company near Aalborg, Denmark that is world leading in the area, so should you want to get the finished products coated they might be able to help you.

 

[foxfish]

Most ridged pipe is made from PVC, it has very good bonding properties and is cheap.
Acrilic is fantastic to have on display but it is far more fragile than PVC and if it is clear allows algae to grow inside.
The main issue with acrylic is trying to bond it to other plastics but it can be done.
There is a huge thread on this forum about bending acrilic and making spray bars, but I can’t find it!

 

[zozo]

I use PVC too. It's also very easy to bend.. It also comes in clear tube if easthetics are an issue. Used both types of tube.. Pvc pressure tubing is at room temperature very strong and more scratch resistant than acrylic. In europe it might be a challange to find reasonable priced clear pvc couplings, the demand for it is rather low. Fortunately we have easy access to China suppliers.
https://nl.aliexpress.com/item/NuoN...uarium-Water-Tank-Pipe-Tube/32832373512.html?

Also rather use Polymer kit for bonding.. It is raher strong enough if not to much pressure or force is applied. But it needs its curing time. The advantage is, with some force all can be taken apart, cleaned and used again. Normal PVC glue is vulcanzing (Solvent welding) only can be disessambled with applying heat.

The main issue with acrylic is trying to bond it to other plastics but it can be done.

Solvent welding does.. Preferably with Dichloromethane
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dichloromethane
(Brush cleaner from acrilyc nail studio's (Beautyshop)

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AU9O1W4/ref=sspa_dk_hqp_detail_aax_0?psc=1
(Oftenly not shipped overseas, so finding local source might be best.)