How to realize silent plumbing systems: a complete guide for installers and designers

Noise generated during the operation of plumbing and heating systems is a problem that should not be underestimated, especially in a building context that places great emphasis on living comfort. Reducing noise is not only a matter of comfort but also of regulatory compliance and building enhancement.

Realizing a silent system requires an integrated approach, starting with the choice of innovative materials and careful design, capable of considering every aspect and ending with installation which is equally important. To achieve this, Aquatechnik’s advanced Safety-plus multilayer pipe fitting technology is an ideal solution to obtain excellent performance in terms of both reliability and sound levels.

The advantages of silent thermohydraulic systems

A silent system is an essential added value for any project, whether implemented in any type of building, residential, commercial or industrial. Minimizing the noise produced by piping, fittings and equipment in operation ensures superior acoustic comfort and it is an indispensable requirement in new modern buildings, but also essential in renovations, which improves the quality life of end users.

In addition, silent systems help optimize the real estate value of buildings, making them more attractive to potential buyers or tenants.

From a regulatory point of view, compliance with acoustic laws and regulations is crucial: at present, for residential buildings, the mandatory requirements are those defined by the D.P.C.M. 5/12/97, which set a limit of 25dB for continuously operating systems (heating, ventilation and air conditioning) and 35dB for discontinuously operating systems (elevators, drains, bathrooms, toilets and faucets).

This decree stipulates that passive acoustic requirements must be verified on site: the design and construction phases must be substantiated upon completion of the work with a test certification according to the standard.

Tips for realizing plumbing and thermohydraulic silent systems

1. Choosing the right materials

Materials are the core of any system. Piping, fittings and fastening systems must be designed to minimize the noise produced by water flow or vibration.

Aquatechnik multilayer pipes have low roughness (0.007 mm) internal surfaces that offer reduced resistance to the flow of hot and cold fluids and are also less subject to the formation of deposits. In addition, cross-linked polyethylene has the ability to greatly absorb vibrations, thus promoting excellent sound insulation. Furthermore, the reduction in pressure drop guaranteed by the Safety system enables operation at reduced speed always to the benefit of noise abatement and still directly impact this.

Comparison of energy consumption and noise Safety-plus and other traditional junction systems for multilayer pipe in the soundproof room.

2. Strategic positioning of systems

The correct placement of systems within the building can make a big difference in terms of perceived noise. Avoiding placing exhaust pipes near sensitive areas such as bedrooms or meeting rooms is a basic rule. Where necessary, soundproofing solutions can be used to limit sound transmission through walls and ceilings.

Another strategy is to use brackets with vibration-damping gaskets to secure pipes, thus reducing the propagation of structural noise.

3. Laying and fitting techniques

Attention to detail when laying piping is another essential aspect of ensuring a silent system. For example, changes in direction should be handled by using gentle 45° elbows rather than sharp 90° elbows. This reduces turbulence in flows, a major cause of noise.

In addition, it is important to coat pipes with insulating materials, a protective layer that not only improves acoustics but also helps to thermally insulate the system.

4. Prevention of water hammer

A common problem in plumbing systems is water hammer caused by the sudden closing of valves. To prevent this phenomenon, it is recommended to install anti-water hammer devices which absorb the kinetic energy of moving water, protecting the system and reducing noise. In addition, the reduced Elastic Modulus (E) value of multi-calor pipes allows for reduced overpressures compared to those that would be achieved with corresponding pipes made of metal material.

5. Monitoring and maintenance

A regularly monitored system is a more efficient and silent system. Periodic checks on piping and fittings can identify any problems early, such as abnormal vibration or air buildup in the system, so that timely action can be taken.

Safety-plus multilayer fittings: the solution for silent systems

Aquatechnik’s Safety-plus multilayer fittings technology is a crucial innovation for those who want to create silent and increasingly efficient systems. The system ensures optimal performance through careful attention to design and materials, making it ideal for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

Advanced materials and excellent performance

Safety-plus fittings are made of PPS (Polyphenylene Sulfide), a high-performance polymeric material that offers:

• Resistance to high temperatures and pressures. Ensures reliability even under the most demanding operating conditions, in heating or drinking water systems.
• Durability. The strength of PPS reduces wear and maintains mechanical and acoustic performance for decades.
• Safety and hygiene. Non-toxic and certified for potable water transportation, our fittings ensure compliance with sanitary regulations

Noise reduction: tests and results

The quietness of Safety-plus fittings is certified by specific tests conducted in an soundproof room which allows the sound insulation of the system to be accurately evaluated in comparison with other types of fittings. This test methodology makes it possible to measure the reduction of noise caused by water flows and vibrations, so that the fittings offer superior performance compared to traditional technologies.

The results, under the adopted test conditions, showed that Safety-plus connections ensure a significant reduction in recorded noise, contributing significantly to the acoustic comfort of a system. In addition, with a 40% increase in flow rate compared to other types of connections, the Safety system also ensures 60% energy savings.

Noise levels tested in soundproof room Aquatechnik

Ease of installation and compatibility

Safety-plus fittings are designed to simplify the work of installers:

• Intuitive connection enables quick and safe installation, reducing installation time.
• Compatibility with multilayer pipes of different sizes and types ensures versatility in various projects. Safety-plus is available from diameter 14 to 90 mm.

Silent and sustainable systems: the key to comfort and efficiency

The design and installation of silent plumbing systems is a priority today to meet the needs of acoustic comfort, efficiency and property value. With advanced technologies such as Safety-plus fittings, designers and installers can create reliable, high-performance systems that stand out for both performance and sustainability.

In addition to noise reduction and resistance to mechanical stress, Safety-plus fittings are in fact a sustainable choice. The PPS from which they are made has minimal impact and ensures a product life cycle that supports the circular economy. Furthermore, the system’s design, which does not cause flow decreases at the pipe-fitting junction, provides significant energy savings with less load on the system’s pumps. Optimized performance, durability and reliability reduce the need for maintenance and replacement, contributing to more efficient resource management.

Safety-plus fittings integrate perfectly into sustainable building projects offering solutions that comply with environmental regulations and improve the overall performance of buildings. Choosing Safety-plus means adopting a long-term vision, combining technological innovation, respect for the environment and attention to end-user comfort.

If you want to take your projects to the next level, contact us for more information. With Safety-plus, the future of silent and sustainable systems is already a reality.