Cold Room Manual

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The document discusses specifications for installing permafrost heating systems using crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing. It covers topics such as references, materials, installation, testing, balancing, and demonstration.

The main components discussed are PEX tubing, fittings, manifolds, supply and return piping in a reverse-return configuration, and flow control devices.

Standards referenced include ASTM, ANSI/UL, CSA, DIN, ICBO, ICC, and PPI standards related to materials testing, fire testing, and plumbing systems.

COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

Uponor, Inc.
5925 148th Street West
Apple Valley, MN 55124
Toll Free: (800) 321-4739
Phone: (952) 891-2000
Fax: (952) 891-1409
www.uponor-usa.com

This specification is a manufacturer-specific proprietary product specification using the


proprietary method of specifying applicable to project specifications and master guide
specifications. Optional text is indicated by brackets [ ]; delete optional text in final copy
of specification. Specifier notes typically precede specification text; delete notes in final
copy of specification. Trade or brand names with appropriate symbols typically are used in
specifier notes; symbols are not used in specification text. Metric conversion, where used,
is soft metric conversion.

This specification is for hydronic permafrost heating systems. These products are
manufactured by Uponor and marketed under the name Uponor Permafrost Heating
Systems. Revise section number and title below to suit project requirements, specification
practices and section content. Refer to CSI 2004 MasterFormat for other section numbers
and titles.

SECTION 13 21 26
COLD STORAGE ROOMS
(PERMAFROST HEATING SYSTEM — PEX)

PART 1 GENERAL

1.01 SUMMARY

Specifier Note: The work covered by this section includes materials required to supply, install and
pressure test crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing manufactured by Uponor as shown on drawings
or as specified. For the purpose of this specification, Uponor is hereby referred to as the PEX tubing
manufacturer.

A. Section Includes: Permafrost heating systems for under cold storage/freezer plant
applications, using crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) tubing and applicable fittings.

Specifier Note: Article below may be omitted when specifying manufacturer’s proprietary products
and recommended installation. Retain References Article when specifying products and installation
by an industry reference standard. If retained, list standard(s) referenced in this section. Indicate
issuing authority name, acronym, standard designation and title. Establish policy for indicating
edition date of standard referenced. Conditions of the Contract or Division 1 References Section
may establish the edition date of standards. This article does not require compliance with standard.
It is a listing of all references used in this section.

1.02 REFERENCES

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

A. General: Standards listed by reference, including revisions by issuing authority, form a


part of this specification section to the extent indicated. Standards listed are identified by
issuing authority, authority abbreviation, designation number, title or other designation
established by issuing authority. Standards subsequently referenced herein are referred to
by issuing authority abbreviation and standard designation.
B. ASTM International
1. ASTM E84 Standard Test Method for Surface Burning Characteristics of Building
Materials
2. ASTM E119 Standard Test Methods for Fire Tests of Building Construction and
Materials
3. ASTM E814 Standard Test Method for Fire Tests of Through-penetration Fire Stops
4. ASTM F876 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing
5. ASTM F877 Standard Specification for Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Plastic Hot-
and Cold-Water Distribution Systems
6. ASTM F1960 Standard Specification for Cold Expansion Fittings with PEX
Reinforcing Rings for Use with Crosslinked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing
C. American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL)
1. ANSI/UL 263 Standard for Safety for Fire Tests of Building Construction and
Materials
D. Canadian Standards Association (CSA)
1. CAN/CSA B137.5 Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing Systems for Pressure
Applications
E. German Institute for Standards (Deutsches Institut fur Normung e.V., DIN)
1. DIN 4726 Pipelines of Plastic Materials Used in Warm Water Floor Heating Systems;
General Requirements
F. International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO) Evaluation Services
1. Evaluation Report No. 4407
2. Evaluation Report No. 5143
G. International Code Council (ICC)
1. International Mechanical Code.
H. Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI)
1. Technical Report TR-3 Policies and Procedures for Developing Recommended
Hydrostatic Design Stresses for Thermoplastic Pipe Materials
2. Technical Report TR-4 Recommended Hydrostatic Strengths and Design Stresses
for Thermoplastic Piping and Fitting Compounds
I. Southern Building Code Congress International, Inc. (SBCCI)
1. Standard Mechanical Code
J. International Conference of Building Officials (ICBO)
1. Uniform Mechanical Code
K. Uponor

© 2006 Uponor Permafrost Heating Specification (PEX) — Dec. 1, 2006


COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

1. Complete Design Assistance Manual (CDAM), 5th edition


2. Radiant Floor Installation Handbook, 6th edition
3. Uponor System Design Software (USDS) or Advanced Design Suite™ (ADS)
Software

Specifier Note: Article below should be restricted to statements describing design or performance
requirements and functional (not dimensional) tolerances of a complete system. Limit descriptions
to composite and operational properties required to link components of a system together and to
interface with other systems.

1.03 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION


A. Design Requirements
1. Standard Grade hydrostatic pressure ratings from Plastics Pipe Institute in
accordance with TR-3 as listed in TR4. The following three standard grade
hydrostatic ratings are required.
a. 200 degrees F (93 degrees C) at 80 psi (551 kPa)
b. 180 degrees F (82 degrees C) at 100 psi (689 kPa)
c. 73.4 degrees F (23 degrees C) at 160 psi (1102 kPa)
2. Certification of flame spread/smoke development rating of 25/50 in accordance with ASTM
E84 for the following PEX tubing sizes when encased with ½ inch fiberglass insulation at
tube spacing of not less than 4 inches apart.
a. ⅜ inch [9.53mm]
b. ½ inch [12.7mm]
c. ⅝ inch [15.88mm]
d. ¾ inch [19.05mm]
e. 1 inch [25.4mm]
f. 1 ¼ inch [31.75mm]
g. 1 ½ inch [38.1mm]
h. 2 inch [50.8mm]
B. Performance Requirements: Provide hydronic permafrost heating system that is
manufactured, fabricated and installed to comply with regulatory agencies and authorities
with jurisdiction, and maintain performance criteria stated by the PEX tubing manufacturer
without defects, damage or failure.
1. Comply with ASTM F877.
2. Comply with DIN 4726 regarding oxygen diffusion concerns.
3. Show compliance with ASTM E119 and ANSI/UL 263 through certification listings with
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL).
a. UL Design No. L557 — 1 hour wood frame floor/ceiling assemblies
b. UL Design No. K913 — 2 hour concrete floor/ceiling assemblies
c. UL Design No. U372 — 1 hour wood stud/gypsum wallboard wall assemblies
d. UL Design No. V444 — 1 hour steel stud/gypsum wallboard wall assemblies

© 2006 Uponor Permafrost Heating Specification (PEX) — Dec. 1, 2006


COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

Specifier Note: Article below includes submittal of relevant data to be furnished by Contractor
before, during or after construction. Coordinate this article with Architect’s and Contractor’s duties
and responsibilities in Conditions of the Contract and Division 1 Submittal Procedures Section.

1.04 SUBMITTALS
A. General: Submit listed submittals in accordance with Conditions of the Contract and
Division 1 Submittal Procedures Section.
B. Product Data: Submit manufacturer’s product submittal data and installation instructions.
C. Shop Drawings
1. Provide installation drawings indicating tubing layout, manifold locations, zoning
requirements and manifold schedules with details required for installation of the
system.
2. Provide mechanical schematic indicating heat source, mechanical piping and
accessories from heat source to manifolds, circulators, water tempering and zone
controls. Indicate supply water temperatures and flow rates to manifolds.
D. Samples: Submit selection and verification samples of piping.
E. Quality Assurance/Control Submittals: Submit the following.
1. Test Reports: Upon request, submit test reports from recognized testing
laboratories.
2. Documentation: Submit the following.
a. Manufacturer’s certificate indicating products comply with specified
requirements.
b. Manufacturer’s downward loss analysis for the structure.
c. Documentation indicating the installer is trained to install the
manufacturer’s products.
F. Closeout Submittals: Submit the following.
1. Warranty documents specified herein.
2. Operation and maintenance data.
3. Manufacturer’s field reports specified herein.
4. Final as-built tubing layout drawing.

Specifier Note: Article below should include statements of prerequisites, standards, limitations and
criteria that establish an overall level of quality for products and workmanship for this section.
Coordinate article below with Division 1 Quality Assurance Section.

1.05 QUALITY ASSURANCE


A. Installer Qualifications: Use an installer with demonstrated experience on projects of
similar size and complexity and possessing documentation proving successful completion
of permafrost heating training by the PEX tubing manufacturer.

Specifier Note: Paragraph below should list obligations for compliance with specific code
requirements particular to this section. General statements to comply with a particular code are
typically addressed in Conditions of the Contract and Division 1 Regulatory Requirements Section.
Avoid repetitive statements.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

B. Regulatory Requirements and Approvals: Provide permafrost heating system that complies
with the following requirements.
1. International Mechanical Code (IMC)
a. ICBO Evaluation Service Evaluation Report No. 4407
b. ICBO Evaluation Service Evaluation Report No. 5143
2. Building Officials and Code Administrators International (BOCA)
a. BOCA National Building Code
3. Southern Building Code Congress International (SBCCI)
a. Standard Mechanical Code
4. Uniform Mechanical Code (UMC)
C. Certifications: Provide letters of certification as follows.
1. Installer is trained by the PEX tubing manufacturer to install the permafrost heating
system.
2. Installer uses skilled workers holding a trade qualification license or equivalent, or
apprentices under the supervision of a licensed tradesperson.

Specifier Note: Retain paragraph below if pre-installation meeting is required.

D. Pre-installation Meetings
1. Verify project requirements, substrate conditions, concrete pour schedules, tubing
manufacturer’s installation instructions and warranty requirements.
2. Review project construction timeline to ensure compliance or discuss modifications
as required.
3. Interface with other trade representatives to verify areas of responsibility.
4. Establish the frequency and construction phrase the project engineer intends for
site visits and inspections by the PEX tubing manufacturer’s representative.

Specifier Note: Article below should include specific protection and environmental conditions
required during storage. Coordinate article below with Division 1 Product Requirements Section.

1.06 DELIVERY, STORAGE AND HANDLING


A. General: Comply with Division 1 Product Requirement Section.
B. Comply with manufacturer’s ordering instructions and lead-time requirements to avoid
construction delays.
C. Delivery: Deliver materials in manufacturer’s original, unopened, undamaged containers
with identification labels intact.
D. Storage and Protection: Store materials protected from exposure to harmful
environmental conditions and at temperature and humidity conditions recommended by
the manufacturer.
1. Store PEX tubing in cartons or under cover to avoid dirt or foreign material from
entering the tubing.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

2. Do not expose PEX tubing to direct sunlight for more than 30 days. If construction
delays are encountered, cover the tubing that is exposed to direct sunlight.

Specifier Note: Coordinate article below with Conditions of the Contract and with Division 1
Closeout Submittals (Warranty) Section. Use this article to require special or extended warranty or
bond covering the work of this section.

1.07 WARRANTY
A. Project Warranty: Refer to Conditions of the Contract for project warranty provisions.
B. Manufacturer’s Warranty: Submit, for owner’s acceptance, manufacturer’s standard
warranty document executed by authorized company official. Manufacturer’s warranty is
in addition to, and not a limitation of, other rights owner may have under contract
documents.
1. Warranty covers the repair or replacement of any tubing or fittings proven
defective.
2. Warranty may transfer to subsequent owners.

Specifier Note: Coordinate subparagraph below with manufacturer’s warranty requirements.

3. Warranty Period for PEX Tubing: 30-year, non-prorated warranty against failure
due to defect in material or workmanship, beginning with date of substantial
completion when installed by a factory-trained Uponor Home Comfort Team (HCT)
contractor.
4. Warranty Period for Manifolds and Fittings: 5-year, non-prorated warranty against
failure due to defect in material or workmanship, beginning with date of substantial
completion when installed by a factory-trained Uponor HCT contractor.
5. Warranty Period for Controls and Electrical Components: 2-year, non-prorated
warranty against failure due to defect in material or workmanship, beginning with
date of substantial completion when installed by a factory-trained Uponor HCT
contractor.
6. If a factory-trained Uponor HCT contractor does not install the system, then the
most recent limited warranty published by the PEX tubing manufacturer takes
precedence.

Specifier Note: List requirements applicable to startup of the various systems. Include
requirements for instruction of owner’s personnel in the operation of equipment and systems.

1.08 SYSTEM STARTUP


A. [Specify system start-up requirements.]

1.09 OWNER’S INSTRUCTIONS


A. Instruct owner’s personnel about operation and maintenance of installed system. Provide
manufacturer’s installation, operation and maintenance instructions for installed
components within the system.

PART 2 PRODUCTS

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

Specifier Note: Retain article below for proprietary method specification. Add product attributes,
performance characteristics, material standards and descriptions as applicable. Use of such phrases
as “or equal” or “or approved equal” or similar phrases may cause ambiguity in specifications. Such
phrases require verification (procedural, legal and regulatory) and assignment of responsibility for
determining “or equal” products.

2.01 HYDRONIC PERMAFROST HEATING SYSTEM

Specifier Note: Paragraph below is an addition to CSI SectionFormat. Retain, edit or delete
paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier practice.

A. Manufacturer: Uponor, Inc.


1. Contact: 5925 148th Street West, Apple Valley, MN 55124; Telephone: (800) 321-
4739, (952) 891-2000; Fax: (952) 891-1409; Website: www.uponor-usa.com.

Specifier Note: Edit Article below to suit project requirements. If substitutions are permitted, edit
text below. Add text to refer to Division 1 Project Requirements (Product Substitutions Procedures)
Section.

2.02 PRODUCT SUBSTITUTIONS


A. All products, components, etc., specified herein are manufactured by and/or available
from the PEX tubing manufacturer.
B. Alternative equipment manufacturers must submit required data for all electrical,
mechanical, structural, engineering, etc. revisions for an equivalent system for approval
15 days prior to bid.
C. Alternative equipment manufacturers must submit completed permafrost heating design
layout to the project engineer for approval. Plagiarism of another manufacturer’s design is
unacceptable.

Specifier Note: Specify materials to be furnished. This article may be omitted and the materials can
be included with the description of a manufactured unit, equipment, component or accessory.

2.03 HYDRONIC PERMAFROST HEATING SYSTEM MATERIALS


A. Tubing
1. Material: Crosslinked polyethylene (PEX) manufactured by PEX-a or Engle method.
2. Material Standard: Manufactured in accordance with ASTM F876 and ASTM F877
and tested for compliance by an independent third-party agency.
3. Pressure Ratings: Standard Grade hydrostatic design and pressure ratings as
issued by the Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI), a division of the Society of the Plastics
Industry (SPI).
4. Minimum Bend Radius (Cold Bending): No less than six times the outside diameter.
Use PEX tubing manufacturer bend supports if radius is less that stated.
5. Barrier Tubing Type: Wirsbo hePEX™ plus
a. Wirsbo hePEX plus tubing with an oxygen diffusion barrier does not
exceed an oxygen diffusion rate of 0.10 grams per cubic meter per day at
104 degrees F (40 degrees C) water temperature in accordance with
German DIN 4726.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

b. Nominal Inside Diameter: Provide tubing with nominal inside diameter in


accordance with ASTM F876, as indicated:
1) [⅝ inch (15.88 mm)]
2) [¾ inch (19.05 mm)]
3) [1 inch (25.4 mm)]
6. Non-Barrier Tubing Type: Wirsbo AQUAPEX®
a. Wirsbo AQUAPEX tubing does not feature an oxygen diffusion barrier.
b. Nominal Inside Diameter: Provide tubing with nominal inside diameter in
accordance with ASTM F876, as indicated.
1) ⅝ inch [15.88mm]
2) ¾ inch [19.05mm]
3) 1 inch [25.4mm]
4) 1¼ inch [31.75mm]
5) 1½ inch [38.1mm]
6) 2 inch [50.8mm]
7. An oxygen diffusion barrier tubing is not required if one of the following design
strategies is used.
a. Isolate the ferrous materials in the boiler and other components within the
primary side of the mechanical system with a heat exchanger.
1) Use non-ferrous components within the secondary system side
(e.g., pumps, expansion tanks, etc.).
b. Use non-ferrous components within the entire fluid pathway.
8. Use Wirsbo hePEX plus tubing when oxygen diffusion barrier tubing is required. Use
Wirsbo AQUAPEX when a non-barrier tubing is required.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists manifold requirements for residential and light commercial applications.
Manifold can support multiple zoning (thermostats) from each manifold location. Delete this article
if this type of manifold is not utilized.

B. Manifolds (light-commercial, valved brass)


1. For system compatibility, use 1¼-inch manifolds with dezincification resistant brass
material, offered by the respective PEX tubing manufacturer.
2. Use manifold mounting brackets offered by the respective PEX tubing
manufacturer.
3. Manifolds must provide individual flow control for each loop of the manifold through
valve actuators available from the manifold supplier.
4. Manifolds must feature manual flow balancing capability within the manifold body
for balancing unequal loop lengths across the manifold.
5. Manifolds supports ⅝ inch diameter PEX tubing.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

6. Each manifold location should have the ability to vent air manually from the
system.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists buried in ground manifold requirements for commercial applications. Manifold
designed to support single zoning from each manifold location. Delete this article if this type of
manifold is not utilized.

C. Manifolds (commercial, valveless HDPE)


1. Install 2-, 3- or 4-inch high-density polyethylene (HDPE) manifolds manufactured
from polyethylene (PE 3408), and offered by the respective PEX tubing
manufacturer for system compatibility.
a. Manifold body pressure and temperature ratings are in accordance with
ASTM D3350.
b. Manifold body dimensional tolerances are in accordance with ASTM D3035.
c. Manifold body is manufactured to a SDR of 11.
2. Install HDPE manifolds primarily in direct-burial applications.
3. Use HDPE manifolds approved for use in systems free of ferrous materials, or
isolate ferrous material to eliminate corrosion damage due to oxygen diffusion.
4. Use HDPE manifolds applicable for systems operating up to a maximum of 140
degrees F (60 degrees C) at 80 psi (551 kPa).
5. Balancing
a. Design individual loop lengths across the manifold within 3 percent of each
other in length.
b. Install supply and return piping to the manifold in a reverse-return
configuration to ensure self-balancing.
c. If the supply and return piping is in direct-return configuration, install and
balance flow setters on the return leg of each manifold to the mains.
6. Manifold outlets must feature ¾ inch or 1 inch Uponor ProPEX® fittings pressed
onto the manifold outlet nipple by the manifold manufacturer.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists valved copper manifold requirements for commercial applications. Manifold
designed to support single zoning from each manifold location. Delete this article if this type of
manifold is not utilized.

D. Manifolds (commercial, valved copper)


1. For system compatibility, use 2-inch valved copper manifolds manufactured from
Type L copper material, offered by the respective PEX tubing manufacturer.
2. Install valved copper manifolds primarily for wall-hung or boxed applications.
3. Use manifolds with an isolation valve or a combination isolation/balancing valve on
each outlet.
4. Use manifolds that support ⅝ inch or ¾ inch PEX tubing.
5. Ensure manifold end cap offers tapping for ⅛ inch FNPT and ½ inch FNPT for vent
and drain.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

6. Install supply and return piping to the manifold in a reverse-return configuration to


ensure self-balancing.
7. If the supply and return piping is in direct-return configuration, install and balance
flow setters on the return leg of each manifold to the mains.
E. Fittings
1. For system compatibility, use fittings offered by the PEX tubing manufacturer.
2. The fitting assembly must comply with ASTM F877 and CAN/CSA B137.5
requirements.
3. Use Uponor QS-style compression fittings or ProPEX fittings as applicable.
4. Uponor QS-style Compression Fittings
a. Fitting assembly manufactured from UNS C3600 series brass material.
b. The fitting assembly consists of a barbed insert, a compression ring and a
compression nut. The barbed insert is manufactured with an o-ring to
facilitate air pressure testing.
5. Uponor ProPEX Fittings
a. Fittings manufactured in accordance with ASTM F1960.
b. Fitting assembly manufactured from material listed in paragraph 5.1 of
ASTM F1960.
c. The fitting assembly consists of a barbed adapter and an applicable sized
PEX ring. The barbed insert may include an o-ring to facilitate pressure
testing with air.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice.

F. Supply and Return Piping to the Manifolds (above ground piping).


1. Properly size supply and return distribution piping for the given volume and
velocities required at system design.
2. Use suitable distribution piping material (i.e., metric dimensioned Wirsbo hePEX,
type M copper or black iron piping) for all supply fluid temperatures in systems
with ferrous components.
a. When using 32 mm through 63 mm dimensioned Wirsbo hePEX tubing, do
not exceed 194 degrees F (90 degrees C) at 58 psi (400 kPa).
3. Use suitable distribution piping material (i.e., Wirsbo AQUAPEX or HDPE) for
systems free of or isolated from ferrous components.
a. When using HDPE mains, do not exceed 140 degrees F (60 degrees C) at
80 psi (551 kPa).
b. When using Wirsbo AQUAPEX mains, do not exceed 200 degrees F (93
degrees C) at 80 psi (551 kPa).
4. Do not expose Wirsbo AQUAPEX and Metric Dimensional Wirsbo hePEX tubing to
direct sunlight or install near overhead fluorescent lighting. If PEX tubing is
exposed, install suitable pipe insulation around the exposed tubing.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

5. Use fittings compatible with piping material. Fittings must transition from
distribution piping to system manifolds.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice.

G. Supply and Return Piping to the Manifolds (below ground piping).


1. Properly size supply and return distribution piping for the given volume and
velocities required at system design.
2. Use suitable distribution piping material (i.e., metric dimensioned Wirsbo hePEX,
type K copper or black iron) for all supply fluid temperatures in systems with
ferrous components.
a. When using 32 mm through 63 mm dimensioned Wirsbo hePEX tubing, do
not exceed 194 degrees F (90 degrees C) at 58 psi (400 kPa).
3. Use suitable distribution piping material (i.e., Wirsbo AQUAPEX or HDPE) for
systems free of or isolated from ferrous components.
a. When using HDPE mains, do not exceed 140 degrees F (60 degrees C) at
80 psi (551 kPa).
b. When using Wirsbo AQUAPEX mains, do not exceed 200 degrees F (93
degrees C) at 80 psi (551 kPa).
4. If copper or black iron piping is embedded in concrete or soil, insulate or protect
with sleeves.
5. Use fittings compatible with piping material. Fittings must transition from
distribution piping to system manifolds.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice.

H. Hydronic Controls
1. Control strategy and components shall be installed to meet or exceed the system
performance requirements as stated in the system design.
2. The Uponor proMIX™ 201 shall be installed to provide control over the a setpoint
fluid temperature to the permafrost heating system.
3. The variable speed injection pump for the proMIX 201 will be installed between the
return waste heated fluid from the refrigeration units and the permafrost system
heat exchanger.
a. The heat exchanger will be sized to meet the requirements of the hydronic
permafrost heating system.
b. The supply fluid sensor for the proMIX 201 will be installed downstream of
the system pump on the secondary side of the exchanger.
c. The proMIX 201 will control the variable speed injection pump and the
system pump on the secondary side of the heat exchanger.
4. The Uponor Setpoint 501s Controller will be used to monitor the ground
temperature under the freezer slab.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

a. The sensor from the Setpoint 501s Controller will be installed in a conduit
midway between the PEX tubing in the system and at the same elevation
plane as the PEX tubing.
b. An access panel will be installed at the location the sensor wire departs
the radiant panel. This access panel is required for any possible future
maintenance requirements.
5. Supply water temperature controls and sensors for the hydronic permafrost heating
system shall be supplied by the tubing manufacturer.

2.04 ACCESSORIES
A. Use accessories associated with the installation of the permafrost heating system as
recommended by or available from the PEX tubing manufacturer.

PART 3 EXECUTION

Specifier Note: Article below is an addition to the CSI SectionFormat. Revise article below to suit
project requirements and specifier’s practice.

3.01 MANUFACTURER’S INSTRUCTIONS


A. Comply with manufacturer’s product data, including product technical bulletins, installation
instructions and design drawings, including the following.
1. Uponor Complete Design Assistance Manual (CDAM)
2. Uponor Radiant Floor Installation Handbook

Specifier Note: Specify actions to physically determine that conditions are acceptable to receive
primary products of the section.

3.02 EXAMINATION
A. Site Verification of Conditions.
1. Verify that site conditions are acceptable for installation of the permafrost heating
system.
2. Do not proceed with installation of the permafrost heating system until
unacceptable conditions are corrected.

Specifier Note: Coordinate article below with manufacturer’s recommended installation


requirements.

3.03 INSTALLATION

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists requirements for on-grade installation.

A. Tubing
1. Fasten the tubing to the flat mesh or reinforcing bar in accordance with the tubing
manufacturer’s installation recommendations.
a. Tubing shall be installed at a consistent depth below the finished surface
elevation as determined by the project engineer.

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COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

2. Tubing on-center distances and loop lengths shall be specified in the submitted
permafrost heating design tubing layout.
a. On-center distances are not to exceed 24 inches (610 mm) when 5/8 inch
nominal PEX tubing is used.
b. On-center distances are not to exceed 30 inches (762 mm) when 3/4 inch
nominal PEX tubing is used.
c. Tubing will be installed no closer than 12 inches (305 mm) from all walls
or foundations.
3. Tubing embedded in the soil bed shall be installed without joints or splices unless
authorized by the project engineer.
4. Tubing shall be installed with 4 inches (102 mm) of compacted soil over the top of
the tubing.
a. Gravel is not acceptable fill over the tubing due to its poor conductivity
and lack of compaction.
b. The compactable soil over the PEX tubing must be clean of any sharp
material.
5. Use the PEX tubing manufacturer’s bend supports where the tubing enters or exits
the radiant panel at a 90-degree bend.
B. Manifolds
1. The manifold locations shall be accessible for maintenance.
2. Isolation ball valves shall be installed at the manifold locations to provide isolation
from the rest of the system for maintenance purposes.
C. Insulation
1. High-density, closed cell extruded insulation will be installed on the finished grade
above the embedded tubing.
2. The vertical compressive strength of the high-density extruded board insulation will
be determined by the structural engineer.
3. The required insulation resistance value (R-value) will be determined by the project
engineer.
D. Pressure Testing
1. Pressurize tubing prior to and during embedding the tubing in the soil bed to
ensure system integrity.
2. Pressurize tubing prior to and during the concrete pour over the compacted soil
bed to ensure system integrity.
3. Perform all pressure tests with air pressure.
a. If the installing contractor prefers the use of water for pressure testing,
the installing contractor is responsible for the removal of all water from
the system if ambient air temperatures approach 32 degrees F (0 degrees
C) or less.
b. If freezing temperatures are likely, pressurize the system with air only.
4. Pressure-test the system at 60 psig.

© 2006 Uponor Permafrost Heating Specification (PEX) — Dec. 1, 2006


COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists requirements for use of glycol/water solution in the system. Delete this article
if glycol/water solution is not utilized.

E. Glycol/Water Solution
1. The PEX tubing manufacturer recommends premixed glycol/water solutions.
a. PEX tubing manufacturer allows site-mixed solutions if mixed to the
proper concentration before entering the system.
b. Mix the glycol/water solution to proper concentration levels to protect the
system freezing during operation shutdown.
c. System circulators must operate continuously for a minimum of 30 days
after the system is filled to ensure the glycol and water does not separate
in a static system.
2. Do not use ethylene glycol due to toxicity issues. The PEX tubing manufacturer
recommends the use of inhibited propylene glycol for hydronic permafrost heating
systems. Refer to the boiler manufacturer’s recommendations.

Specifier Note: Retain, edit or delete paragraph below to suit project requirements and specifier
practice. Article lists requirements for use of firestop for through-wall penetrations. Delete this
article if through-wall penetrations are not utilized.

F. Through-penetration Firestop
1. Ensure compatibility of one- and two-hour rated through-penetration assemblies in
accordance with ASTM E814.
2. Refer to the PEX tubing manufacturer for manufacturers that list PEX tubing with
their firestop systems.

Specifier note: Specify the tests and inspections required for installed or completed work.

3.04 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL


A. Site Tests
1. To ensure system integrity, pressure test the system before covering tubing in
concrete or when other trades are working in the vicinity of the tubing.
2. Test all electrical controls in accordance with respective installation manuals.

Specifier note: Specify the final actions required to prepare installed equipment or other completed
work to properly function or perform.

3.05 ADJUSTING
A. Balancing Across the Manifold
1. Balance all loops across each manifold for equal flow resistance based on actual
loop lengths and total manifold flow.
2. Balancing is unnecessary when all loop lengths across the manifold are within 3
percent of each other in length. Install the supply and return piping to the manifold
in a reverse-return configuration to ensure self-balancing.

© 2006 Uponor Permafrost Heating Specification (PEX) — Dec. 1, 2006


COLD STORAGE ROOMS 13 21 26

B. Balancing between manifolds is accomplished with a flow control device installed on the
return piping leg from each manifold when direct return piping is used for the supply and
return mains.

Specifier note: Specify the final actions required to clean installed equipment or other completed
work to properly function or perform. Coordinate article below with Division 1 Execution
Requirements (Cleaning) Section.

3.06 CLEANING
A. Remove temporary coverings and protection of adjacent work areas.
B. Repair or replace damaged installed products.
C. Clean installed products in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions prior to Owner’s
acceptance.
D. Remove construction debris from project site and legally dispose of debris.

Specifier note: Specify requirements of the installer or manufacturer to demonstrate or train the
Owner’s personnel in the operation and maintenance of equipment.

3.07 DEMONSTRATION
A. Demonstrate operation of hydronic permafrost protection system to Owner’s personnel.
B. Advise the owner’s representative about the type and concentration of glycol and water
solution if used in the hydronic permafrost protection system.
1. The Owner monitors the solution effectiveness through an established maintenance
program as outlined by the glycol manufacturer.

Specifier note: Specify provisions for protecting work after installation but prior to acceptance by
the Owner. Coordinate article below with Division 1 Execution Requirements Section.

3.08 PROTECTION
A. Protect installed work from damage caused by subsequent construction activity on the
site.

END OF SECTION

© 2006 Uponor Permafrost Heating Specification (PEX) — Dec. 1, 2006

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