Caleffi TwistFlow Manifolds and Viega FostaPex

johntrhodes81

I was told by a supplier that Viega FostaPex can't be used with Caleffi TwistFlow manifolds. Does this sound right?

Manifold: http://www.supplyhouse.com/Caleffi-6686H5S1A-1-TwistFlow-Manifold-8-Outlets
Pex Fitting: http://www.supplyhouse.com/Caleffi-680504A-1-2-PEX-Fitting-for-Manifolds

John

johntrhodes81

I checked with Caleffi directly, they said it is compatible.

Rich_49

Sounds exactly right . Supplier does not sell Caleffi manifolds so just says something to get the manifolds he stocks purchased from him or has just basic product knowledge and is not able to mix and match . Funny , my Caleffi flush cart is plumbed with FostaPex , go figure

Tinman

How do like the flush cart? Good investment?

SWEI

Tank is a bit small for some jobs, but all things considered, yes.

Cleaning grit and rust out of the bottom of the tank is a bit of a pain. I added a 4.5" x 10" (Big Clear or equivalent) housing in series with the return line. Washable 20µ pleated filter cartridges are lasting for 10-20 jobs.

Rich_49

Completely happy with that purchase Stephen . Good idea Kurt , I think I'll do that also . We added a through fitting into the bottom of the tank to add water by turning on a valve when it is a bit too small

hot_rod

The challenge with FostaPex is the tool that strips the aluminum jacket off does not go deep enough. So the nut and ferrule will not go on far enough to get a tight grip.

If you can strip a bit deeper it will work.

I drilled another hole in the blade of the stripper tool to deepen that jacket peel.

bob eck

If you are using the Viega Fostapex tubing why are you not using their manifolds?

Formerly

caleffi manifolds have more features for similar price point.

bob eck

What does the Caleffi manifold have that the Viega manifold does not have?

hot_rod

Here are some of the features on the Caleffi S-1, available up to 13 ports.

The TwistTop actuator may be unique in the industry. When you manually lock it open, it "makes" the end switch, nice for purging, checking wiring, and troubleshooting.

Rich_49

Wish they came in Stainless also Bob .

hot_rod

Rich said:

Wish they came in Stainless also Bob .

What about composite? We manufacture these, limited to 140°, so we have been reluctant to bring them to the US market.

bob eck

Thanks for the info Hot Rod I work in outside sales for F W Webb in Allentown PA and we sell both Caleffi and Viega radiant pex tubing including the fostapex product. I have the fostapex tubing in my house running from condensing boiler to cast iron radiators. The fostapex is a great tubing. Please email me as much info on the Caleffi radiant headers including the composite models. Robert.eck@fwwebb.com thanks.

hot_rod

Just a heads up, some of the pex manufacturers suggest using any fitting other than their brand may void warranty?

Not sure why if the fitting and tube have the standard listed. I suspect Sioux Chief builds most of the copper barb and crimp rings for tube manufacturers?

We have been supplying that composite manifold to the western Canadian market to get some feedback. They seem to embrace designs below 140F up there.