Yes, the terms polybutylene and polybutene are the same as interchangeable.

This pipe polymer has been referred to as polybutylene, PB, PB-1 and polybutene, as well as its correct chemical name, Polybutene-1

WaterLink™ fittings are available in 4 sizes in NZ -- 15mm, 18mm, 22mm and 28mm.

15mm and 28mm are available as WLC crimp and WLP push-fit fittings.

18mm and 22mm are available as WLC crimp fittings and WLH fittings.

Yes.

WaterLink  pipe  and  fittings  are  compatible  for  use  and  interchangeable  with  other  brands of polybutylene pipe and  fittings which have been manufactured and certified  to AS/NZS 2642 and dimensionally compatible.   

The 25-year warranty for WaterLink  pipes  and  fittings will not be affected when used with such certified polybutylene systems.

WaterLink™ offers plumbers a proven Polybutylene plumbing system that is compatible with existing AS/NZS 2642 pipework in New Zealand homes.

LEAP made the decision to continue manufacturing to the AS/NZS 2642 standard that plumbers across NZ have used for decades for these key reasons:

1. Thinner Walls. Same Strength: WaterLink pipes meet all AS/NZ 2642 pressure requirements without the bulk of AS 5082 pipes. This means lighter, easier-to-handle pipes that perform just as well.

2. Higher Flow Rates: With a larger internal bore compared to AS 5082 pipes, WaterLink provides better flow rates, reducing complexity in design and installation.

3. Fewer Costs & Faster Installation: WaterLink is Warrantied with all AS/NZS2642 pipe and fitting and allows for efficient installations.

• PB-1 pipe is highly flexible, reducing the number of fittings required, which cuts down on both installation time and costs. Its lightweight nature makes it easier to install, offering added convenience on the job.

• The pipe doesn’t corrode and prevents scale build-up, ensuring a longer lifespan.

• It boasts nearly double the strength of PP-R and PE-RT, according to ISO9080 evaluations of PE-RT, providing exceptional durability.

• With a thinner wall, it offers a larger internal diameter, leading to higher flow rates and improved energy efficiency.

• Its quiet operation minimizes water hammer, and it demonstrates excellent resistance to creep.

• PB-1 is also the ideal solution for plumbing systems in areas that may experience freezing conditions.

WaterLink is available at leading merchants such as Plumbing World, ZIP Plumbing Plus, Mico, O’Briens Plumbing and Bathroomware, My Plumbing Depot and others.

Polybutene-1 is a polyolefin manufactured utilising Zeigler-Natta type catalysts which produce a highly isotactic thermoplastic with superior mechanical, thermal and chemical resistance properties making it the technically preferred material for the production of pressurised hot and cold-water piping systems.