The long-lasting, reliable, and efficient operation of underfloor heating largely depends on the type and quality of the elements used in its construction, particularly the pipes, which are responsible for heat distribution. Modern heating pipes are equipped with diffusion barriers – special coatings that protect against oxygen penetration. We explain how the diffusion barrier works and why it is so important in underfloor heating, taking as an example the pipes KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor.
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KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor - polyethylene pipes with anti-diffusion barrier
KAN is a Polish manufacturer and supplier of innovative solutions and installation systems designed for the construction of water and heating installations, including water-based surface heating and cooling systems. Products branded with the KAN‑therm mark can be purchased in nearly 60 countries worldwide.
KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor pipes are manufactured in accordance with the standard PN-EN ISO 21003-2:2009+A1:2011 from a polyethylene octene copolymer with enhanced thermal resistance, very good mechanical properties, and high flexibility. They meet the stringent requirements placed on materials used in surface heating and cooling installations. They are resistant to corrosion and sediment accumulation, lightweight, non-toxic, and neutral to the taste and smell of water. Thanks to their high flexibility, the installation of heating loops is much easier, faster, and more comfortable, even at low temperatures, and the entire installation is protected against the formation of constrictions or complete blockage due to temporary local overload. The pipes exhibit a shape memory phenomenon, which further enhances the safety of installation and use of underfloor heating. The blue KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor pipes consist of 5 layers permanently bonded together during the production process:
- an inner layer of PE-RT polyethylene with enhanced thermal resistance,
- a bonding layer,
- an anti-diffusion barrier of EVOH,
- a bonding layer,
- an outer layer of PE-RT polyethylene with enhanced thermal resistance.
EVOH anti-diffusion coating – effective protection against oxygen penetration
As mentioned in the previous paragraph, the underfloor heating pipes KAN-therm are equipped with a EVOH diffusion barrier – a specialized barrier that effectively prevents the diffusion (penetration) of oxygen from the environment into the heating water through the walls of the pipes, which protects the installation components from corrosion. The applied EVOH coating (ethylene vinyl alcohol) meets the requirements of the DIN 4726 standard. It has a permeability level of < 0.10 g O₂/m³ × d.
The importance of the diffusion barrier for the durability and efficiency of underfloor heating
Even a minimal amount of oxygen penetrating into the heating medium can cause a number of serious technical problems. Therefore, when installing underfloor heating, it is advisable to use pipes with a diffusion barrier. They support the long-term, trouble-free operation of the system and help optimize operating costs. The most common consequence of oxygen penetration
from the environment into the heating water is corrosion of metal parts. Metal alloys tend to corrode under the influence of oxygen, and corrosion weakens the durability of components, which over time can lead to leaks, joint failures, and various other malfunctions. Additionally, the presence of air in the underfloor heating installation hinders circulation, causes noise, and reduces operational efficiency. Air in the system requires bleeding, which can be costly and time-consuming – especially when the problem occurs regularly. Furthermore, due to oxygen diffusion, the efficiency of underfloor heating decreases, making it difficult to achieve the desired thermal comfort indoors and driving up electricity bills.
Contractors' opinions on pipes with a diffusion barrier
KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor pipe, thanks to the presence of the anti-diffusion barrier, guarantees reliable protection of metal installation components against oxidation and corrosion. It is very popular among underfloor heating installers. Below are some authentic user reviews from the official KAN-therm distributor's website:
„The pipe is flexible. It is very reasonably priced. Its dimensions are compatible with most pipes from other suppliers.”
„The quality of workmanship is at the highest level, this is a great purchase.”
„I have been buying products from this brand for years. Convenient installation and good quality.”
„Great product, I recommend it.”
FAQ
1. What is a diffusion barrier?
A diffusion barrier is a special coating in pipes that prevents oxygen from penetrating into the heating water.
2. Why are underfloor heating pipes equipped with a diffusion barrier?
The diffusion barrier protects the metal components of the installation from corrosion, which translates into long-lasting, trouble-free operation of the system.
3. How are KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor pipes constructed?
KAN-therm PE-RT Blue Floor is a five-layer pipe made from a polyethylene octene copolymer with enhanced thermal resistance, equipped with an EVOH anti-diffusion barrier.