Aquarius

Aquarius

Lead-Free uPVC Piping for Potable Water

Astral Aquarius is a lead-free piping system for potable water, introduced by Astral for the first time in India in 2004. This system is used for cold water application and the maximum service temperature is 60ยฐc. 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 pipes and fittings are solvent weld joint system that imparts double pressure bearing capacity than conventional PVC threaded pipes.

Certifications

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 (ยฝโ€) to 300 mm (12โ€) (IPS)
  • SCH 80: 15 mm (ยฝโ€) to 300 mm (12โ€) (IPS)

FAQs

Lead is a metal with no known biological benefit to humans. Too much lead can damage various systems of the body including the nervous and reproductive systems and the kidneys, and it can cause high blood pressure and anaemia. Lead accumulates in the bones and lead poisoning may be diagnosed from a blue line around the gums. Lead is especially harmful to the developing brains of foetuses and young children and to pregnant women. Lead interferes with the metabolism of calcium and vitamin D. High blood lead levels in children can cause consequences which may be irreversible including learning disabilities, behavioural problems, and mental retardation. At very high levels, lead can cause convulsions, coma and death. Lead can be dissolved in water when lead pipes are used for transportation of water. So, use of such pipes may be harmful to human being. hence lead-free plumbing system is most favoured for potable water transportation.

The Astral Aquarius uPVC system design and standards prioritize engineering safety factors, ensuring a prolonged service life. With a design service life span of 50 years, the astral aquarius system offers durability. 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 the system will deliver a service life comparable to or surpassing alternative materials available in the market.

As a professional, you'll soon discover that uPVC pipes can be installed with a speed advantage of at least 25% compared to metal piping systems. This not only saves time but also translates into financial benefits through reduced tool costs and insurance advantages. Additionally, even with the fluctuating metal price structure, uPVC consistently offers a cost advantage in terms of materials, with savings of up to 50-60% compared to traditional metal alternatives.

Indeed, the thermal conductivity of a metal system is 2500 times higher than that of a uPVC system. The enhanced insulation properties of uPVC offer long-term energy savings for homeowners or tenants who prioritize energy efficiency. In this regard, 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 typically 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 emphasizes 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 pipe are acceptable for this purpose. For more detailed information, please refer to the installation procedure outlined in the manual. Following these guidelines ensures proper bonding and installation of the uPVC pipes.

Most cracks in uPVC pipes are typically caused by rough handling. This can occur during transportation, while being stored at the wholesaler, or on the job site. Additionally, fine cracks may result from cutting the pipe with dull or damaged ratchet cutters. The majority of these cracks tend to happen during colder weather when temperatures drop below 10ยฐC. Similar to other plastics like PEX-A and CPVC, uPVC can become somewhat brittle during these conditions and requires careful handling.

To minimize issues arising from cracked pipes, several measures can be implemented:
A) Educate your installers about the potential problems and instruct them to handle uPVC pipes appropriately.
B) Use a saw or a circular tubing cutter with a plastic tubing blade to cut the pipe to the desired length.
C) Before making a joint, thoroughly inspect the ends of the pipe. If a crack is visible, cut off the split portion before proceeding.
D) During cold weather, gripping the pipe surrounding the area to be cut for approximately 10 seconds prior to making the cut will warm the pipe and reduce the likelihood of problems.

By following these measures, you can minimize the occurrence of cracked uPVC pipes and ensure a successful installation.

Extensive tests conducted at reputable universities and independent laboratories have verified that uPVC surpasses metal systems when it comes to water quality effects. Additionally, it has been established that uPVC is no more toxic than wood in fire situations. The Astral Aquarius uPVC system is manufactured using a lead-free compound, making it highly favored in terms of health and safety. The Limiting Oxygen Index (LOI) of uPVC is 45, indicating that uPVC 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, breaking down polymer chains and causing weakness in pipes and fittings. However, uPVC undergoes dehydrochlorination, not oxidation. This process does not significantly break down polymer chains, resulting mainly in surface discoloration. While impact resistance may decrease due to inefficient impact modifiers, stress-bearing capacity remains largely unaffected. This is primarily an installation issue before UV exposure. If parts of the piping system are exposed to light, applying standard exterior latex paint can provide sufficient protection.

Indeed, it is feasible to use Astral Aquarius at temperatures around 10-1ยฐC. The normal temperature range of uPVC compound material is typically between 23ยฐC to 60ยฐC. As the temperature drops below 23ยฐC, uPVC, like other thermoplastic materials, becomes more brittle. Consequently, its impact properties are diminished at lower temperatures. However, the hydrostatic strength of the material remains unaffected, enabling 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 has a tendency 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, leading to noise emissions. However, in uPVC systems, sound will travel through water as the velocity of sound in water is higher than that in uPVC. As a result, uPVC systems are designed to be as quiet as physically possible, minimizing noise transmission and ensuring 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, resulting in increased head loss and scale build-up.

However, with Astral Aquarius uPVC systems, corrosion is not a concern, and as a result, scale build-up is inhibited. The absence of corrosion in uPVC pipes ensures a consistent and smooth flow, minimizing friction and reducing the likelihood of scale accumulation in the system.

In the plumbing market, IPS (Iron Pipe Size) and CTS (Copper Tube Size) systems are widely used. It is crucial to have the ability to interchange between these systems easily. Recognizing this market requirement, ASTRAL 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, providing 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").

New Updates

Reducing Tee
Type RINGFIT
View Details
Reducing Tee With Door
Type SELFIT
View Details
Reducing Tee
Type SELFIT
View Details

Video

Additional Information

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 (ยฝโ€) to 300 mm (12โ€). 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 piping system for potable water, introduced by Astral for the first time in India in 2004. This system is used for cold water application and the maximum service temperature is 60ยฐc. 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 pipes and fittings are solvent weld joint system that imparts double pressure bearing capacity than conventional PVC threaded pipes.

Other Products

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 made 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 60ยฐC.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.

Astralโ€™s Lead-Free uPVC Piping Systemย 

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, which include 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 pipesย 

  • Strong and Lightweight:ย The Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes and fittings are robust, durable, and boast of high tensile and impact strength. Despite its strength, the system is lightweight, which makes transportation and installation easier and more efficient.
  • Durable:ย 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:ย 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:ย 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:ย 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 Materialย for Drinking Water:ย 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:ย With a smooth inner surface, Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes ensure high flow rates and minimal frictional losses. High flow rates mean efficient water transport, this reduces energy consumption in pumping and ensures adequate water supply even in high-demand situations.
  • Chemical Resistance:ย 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:ย The Astral Aquarius lead-free uPVC pipes are available in sizes ranging from 1โ„2” (15 mm) to 12โ€ (300 mm). It includes a wide range of fittings, transition fittings, valves and specially designed brass-insert fittings to accommodate various design requirements.

Field of Applications

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

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

Installation Procedures

Proper installation is crucial to the performance and longevity of Astral Aquarius uPVC pipes and fittings. Here are steps to ensure successful installation:

Cut Pipe

Cut the pipe squarely with either a mitre saw, a mechanical cut-off saw, or a wheel cutter designed for plastics. A joint failure may occur if the cut is angled.

Remove Burr & Bevel

Remove all burrs from inside and outside the pipe with a knife edge, file, or deburring tool. Chamfer (bevel) the end of the pipe at a 10ยฐ-15ยฐ angle. Clean the surface dirt, grease, or moisture with a dry cloth.

Dry Fit

Apply light pressure to fit the pipe into the fitting socket. Avoid using pipes and fittings that are either too tight or too loose.

Applicator

Use an applicator that is half the pipe diameter. Using too large an applicator can force excessive cement into small-diameter fittings, while too small an applicator will not apply enough cement to large-diameter systems.

Cement

Apply a full, even layer of cement to the outside of the pipe and a medium layer to the inside of the fitting.

Join Pipe & Fitting

  • Assemble the pressure pipe and fitting socket until they meet the socket bottom. Give the pipe a quarter turn and hold until the pipe does not back out.
  • Remove any excess cement from the exterior. A correctly formed joint will show a continuous bead of cement around its perimeter.
  • Ensure all safety precautions are observed.
  • The system should be installed professionally by following local plumbing, fire and building codes.
  • Proper installation practices are essential to prevent system failure, property damage, or personal injury.
  • Pressure pipes and fittings should be used as defined by local codes and applicable ASTM standards. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all related products.


Proudly Associated With