With the new ProPEX® Auto Rotation Adapter from Uponor, Inc., installers no longer need to rotate the expander tool or the tubing itself by hand when making ProPEX connections on Wirsbo AQUAPEX® tubing and Wirsbo hePEX™ plus tubing. The adapter automatically turns the expander head on each expansion of the tubing, eliminating the need for any manual rotation. The adapter is especially effective in tight spaces where manually turning the tubing or the tool is difficult.

Capitalizing on the unique, thermal shape memory of Uponor’s PEX-a tubing, ProPEX connections are made by expanding the tubing and a ProPEX Ring with an expander tool before inserting a fitting. As the tubing and ring shrink back to their original shapes, they form a permanent seal with the ProPEX fitting.

Rotating the tubing or the tool during the tubeexpansion process is necessary to ensure there are no vertical grooves (i.e., parallel with the tubing) that can result in potential leak paths. By automatically rotating the expander head on the tool, the lightweight (10-ounce) adapter simplies the installation process, leading to more consistent PEX connections and avoiding a slower-than-normal seal, especially in cooler temperatures.

“The ProPEX Auto Rotation Adapter is designed to make a secure connection every time, regardless of the temperature or the weather conditions,” says Randy Knapp, associate manager, Plumbing, at Uponor.

“Every installer, from novices to highly experienced users, will welcome this user-friendly tool for creating more consistent connections.”  Measuring only 1.9” in length and diameter, the ProPEX Auto Rotation Adapter expands Uponor PEX tubing in five sizes from 3/8” to 1” and fits onto all ProPEX Expander Tools (Manual, Air and Battery), except for the new ProPEX 200 model. The patent-pending adapter is also compatible with all standard expander heads except H-heads.