Need help identifying black plastic pipe

[mogget]

My parents have asked me to replace the shower in their 1970's house. Had a look today, there is a shower pump, and the pipework to the shower is in black plastic. First impression, it's similar to modern pushfit pipe but it's black, somewhat flexible, and appears to be in very long lengths. I couldn't find any joints in the 5 metres or so between the pump and the shower, although some is hidden under the floor. There's also some feeding the toilet cistern, it looks like 15mm OD or 1/2 inch joined with ordinary brass compression fittings.

Anyone have any idea what it is before I go dismantling things? I could replace the whole lot right back to the pump, but would rather re-use if that's possible/OK.

 

[Agile]

I have never seen anything like that!

However, if it fits standard 15 mm compression joints then its probably that size. Even 1/2" is virtually the same size and can be used regardless!

The only problem is that you MUST use inserts! The best thing is to get a micrometer and measure the outside diameter of the inserts used and look for some of the same size.

Tony

 

[mogget]

The plot thickens! I think I'll dismantle a joint and see what's inside. The vernier gauge will be happy to see the light of day - will report back later.

 

[mogget]

OK, had a look today, it's actually a dark brown rather than black, and is marked "Bartol Acorn PB" which I'm guessing might be polybutylene (?)

I will now go and try to cap it off somewhere so we can put the water back on... In the meantime does anyone know whether it's ok to keep using this pipe or would it be best to replace it?

Thanks

 

[seco services]

Bartol Acorn is now hep2o plastic pipe.

 

[mogget]

Thanks for the replies folks, it's a great help. I managed to get some inserts that fit and put a service valve in place, so we have water again now

Mogget

 

[Agile]

Be aware that the Acorn is pretty brittle now and could split at any time!

Tony

 

[Softus]

Bartol Acorn is now hep2o plastic pipe.

Claptrap.