A BRUGG GROUP COMPANY
Whether for smaller distribution networks or extensive district cooling networks, BRUGG Pipes offers two pre-insulated pipe systems, COOLFLEX and COOLMANT, to meet different cooling distribution requirements. The flexible COOLFLEX pipe system is particularly suitable for smaller district cooling networks, residential developments, individual building connections and hotel complexes. COOLMANT is a rigid pipe system designed for larger distribution networks and connections to office complexes, hospitals, shopping centres and other urban buildings.
Both pipe systems enable the thermally insulated transport of cooling and chilled water from the cooling plant to connected consumers. They therefore form an important part of the infrastructure for centralised cooling supply.
In district cooling systems, cooling is provided centrally and distributed to buildings or facilities through a pipe network. Depending on the system design, different cooling generation and cooling methods are used.
One option is to use available waste heat, for example from industrial facilities, waste incineration plants or combined heat and power (CHP) plants. Absorption chillers can use this heat to generate cooling. Alternatively, or in combination, natural cooling sources such as lake, river or groundwater, as well as snow and ice, can be used where local and technical conditions permit.
The pre-insulated COOLFLEX and COOLMANT pipe systems transport the cooling medium within the district cooling network. Thermal insulation limits heat gain from the surroundings and supports cooling supply according to demand. Combined with a suitably designed system, district cooling can help utilise available energy sources and reduce primary energy demand.
COOLFLEX and COOLMANT consist of a polyethylene (PE 100) carrier pipe, thermal insulation made of rigid polyurethane foam (PUR) and a protective outer casing. This bonded construction combines the corrosion resistance of the plastic carrier pipe with thermal insulation that limits heat transfer between the cooling medium and the surroundings.
Both pipe systems are designed for underground installation. The bonded construction allows thermally induced changes in length to be accommodated. The resistance of PE carrier pipes to various chemical media also enables applications with suitable water-glycol mixtures. Compatibility with the specific medium must be assessed based on its composition and the operating conditions.
The combination of a pre-insulated design, corrosion-resistant carrier pipe and construction tailored to the application makes COOLFLEX and COOLMANT pipe systems suitable for long-term use in district cooling and chilled water networks.
Selecting the appropriate pipe system depends on factors including network size, pipe routing, required pipe diameter and operating conditions.
Thanks to its flexibility, the COOLFLEX pipe system can be adapted to different routes. Existing utility lines and other obstacles can be taken into account during installation. Delivery in long pipe lengths on drums or in coils enables long pipe sections with few joints and can reduce civil engineering and installation work.
The rigid COOLMANT pipe system is primarily intended for main and distribution pipes in larger district cooling networks. The pipe sections are joined together according to the planned route.
Coordinated connection and jointing components are available for the pipe systems, including electrofusion couplers, pipe couplings and threaded fittings. The choice of suitable joining technology depends on the pipe diameter, design and specific system requirements.
COOLFLEX and COOLMANT are available in various pipe dimensions and designs to meet different district cooling and chilled water network requirements.
COOLFLEX: Flexible, pre-insulated pipe system with a PE 100 carrier pipe and PUR thermal insulation. Designed for smaller distribution networks and individual building connections, it is available in various dimensions up to 125 mm and with a pressure rating of PN 16.
COOLMANT: Rigid, pre-insulated pipe system with a PE 100 carrier pipe and PUR thermal insulation for main and distribution pipes. Depending on the design, different pipe dimensions and pressure ratings of PN 10 and PN 16 are available.
Both pipe systems are designed for cooling and chilled water applications. The permissible operating temperatures and pressures depend on the respective design and operating conditions. For applications involving higher medium temperatures, the relevant restrictions must be observed.
Exact dimensions, technical operating limits and available designs can be found in the product documentation for COOLFLEX and COOLMANT.
Are you planning a district cooling network or do you need pre-insulated pipes for a cooling or chilled water application? On the product pages for COOLFLEX and COOLMANT, you will find further information on system construction, jointing systems, tools and accessories, as well as application examples.
