REHAU Introduces FIREPEX Residential Fire Sprinkler SystemPEX System Designed for Fire Protection Professionals

LEESBURG, Va., September 27, 2007 -- REHAU announces the availability of its FIREPEX™ residential fire sprinkler system. FIREPEX combines all the benefits of a PEX-based system with the traditional installation techniques and configurations familiar to the fire sprinkler professional.

Consisting of flexible RAUPEX® cross linked polyethylene (PEXa) pipe, solid brass EVERLOC® fittings and UL-listed residential sprinkler heads, this program meets the requirements for fire protection systems as defined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 13D for "Installation of Sprinkler Systems in one-and-two family dwellings and manufactured homes." It accommodates a working pressure of up to 130 PSI, and has an ambient temperature rating of 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

FIREPEX Residential Fire Sprinkler System

"The launch of FIREPEX centers around six new sprinkler fittings," said Jon Bittenbender, fire protection technical manager with REHAU. "The lighter tees and the introduction of four new elbow fittings will allow contractors to configure FIREPEX in the same way as traditional sprinkler materials. In addition, the flexible nature of PEX is ideal for service line applications." Bittenbender added, "The new FIREPEX program also offers a UL listing through 2-inch pipe and fittings in accordance with NFPA 24 for 'Underground Service.'"

Backed by 40 years of proven success, the FIREPEX™ system builds on a longstanding heritage of REHAU's RAUPEX pipe and EVERLOC fittings. RAUPEX pipe is designed as a robust pipe with enhanced temperature capabilities, cold expansion and long-term strength. To date, more than one billion feet of RAUPEX pipe has been installed around the world.

Used in conjunction with RAUPEX pipe for more than 20 years, the brass EVERLOC fitting system makes fast, secure connections in seconds without the use of flame, heat or solvents. Fittings can be installed regardless of outside temperature, and the finished connection is immediately ready for pressure. EVERLOC fittings have a larger inside diameter than typical PEX fittings, resulting in superior flow characteristics and less pressure loss. Tee, elbow and straight EVERLOC fitting types are available in a variety of sizes to meet system design requirements.

A selection of UL-listed residential sprinkler heads from REHAU complete the FIREPEX system, and accommodate concealed, recessed pendent, horizontal sidewall and other system designs. The FIREPEX system also allows for use of any UL-listed residential sprinkler head, which can be easily threaded onto the EVERLOC fittings.

For more information, contact:
REHAU
501 Edwards Ferry Rd., N.E.
Leesburg, Va., 20176
1.800.247.9445
Fax: 1.800.627.3428
www.rehau.com.