PEX compatibility with Silicone lubricant

RonV

I was wondering if anyone can comment on whether PEX tubing would suffer any harm if it had liquid silicone (pure) lubricant applied to the outside? My understanding is that silicone is typically compatible with most plastics, but I think PEX has a coating or outer layer that I'm not familiar with, hence the question.

hot_rod

heating pex

sometimes has an EVOH barrier on the outside. Some brands add an additional PE layer over the EVOH to protect it.

Seems like silicone would get along fine, best get that from the horses mouth, however.

Dare I ask why you question

hr

RonV

Yes indeed, why? Well...I have several points inside the walls where the PEX rubs against framing, like where the tube passes through holes in the plate for example. When the PEX starts out cold and then gets hit with hot water when the zone calls for heat, it expands rapidly and then tries to move against the framing. But there is friction between the PEX and the wood and we hear some pretty loud ticking noises as the PEX moves in little jumps. So I'm thinking of making tiny holes in the drywall and injecting some silicone lubricant against the tubing and onto the wood that it touches. Its a science experiment, that's true, but worth a try?

Weezbo

another perspective?

Larger 1 1/2 or 1 3/8th" holes with 'squeakers', better answer.

Insulation installers usually seal every penetration of pipe wire or duct work in most remodel or new construction, the plumber usually will employ plastic tube or larger sized tubing forming a "chase" around individual tubes or pipes.

some friction fit insulation can be used to separate water lines from duct work to reduce noise transmission or the possibility of freeze- ups .

For copper tubing ,... Siloo , WD- 40 , dish soap...all work to some degree on problematic older homes expansion noises . however, the best way is to get rid of whatever it is that binds it,...sometimes expansion Joints called Swing joints are used ,with pex it is a loop type or O type formation with a change of direction used to reduce stress or Pinch Points.

when pex is at an angle to the framing the use of half of a squeaker from opposite sides can reduce the Bind in sharp edges and re align the tubing ...

[Deleted User]

or use silicone caulk,

high temp if you wish, because it'll remain permanent and flex-move with the expansion and contraction

Nron_13

circ change

change your system so that the systems runs longer and inject the heating to bring the water temp up slower to help eliminate the espantion noises

Nron