Expansion PEX Fittings

Cold expansion PEX fittings and F1960 rings for expansion-style PEX systems, stocked in both plastic and brass from our 5M line.

How cold expansion differs from crimp

With an ASTM F1960 connection, an expander tool stretches the tubing and its reinforcing ring, the fitting is inserted, and the tubing retracts to grip the fitting. Nothing is compressed from the outside, and the joint gets stronger as the material returns to shape.

The practical advantages are a full-bore fitting that does not restrict flow the way an insert fitting does, and a joint that can be made in cold conditions and pressure-tested quickly. The tradeoff is the tool — expansion tools cost considerably more than crimp tools, and the ring must match the fitting system.

PEX-B tubing is now certified for use with both crimp and F1960 expansion fittings, so the connection method is a choice about labour and tooling rather than about the tubing itself. All PEX for potable water in Canada is certified to CSA B137.5.

Rings and tooling

Expansion rings are sized to the tubing and are not interchangeable between systems — use the ring specified for the fitting you are installing. Stocked at Richmond Hill with contractor pricing and GTA delivery.