Cross-linked polyethylene, commonly referred to as PEX, has exploded onto the scene throughout North America, being used in a variety of plumbing and heating applications. While the product seems relatively new, it has actually been around for many years. Companies like DOW Coming in the United States and others in Europe began development on cross-linking polyethylene as early as the 1960's and it has evolved into one of the most highly engineered, highly scrutinized and highly successful fluid distribution materials available today.
The plumbing and heating industry has had many evolutions in modern times when it comes to fluid distribution piping. Not many people still rely on a horse and carriage as their primary form of transportation. Instead, the automotive industry has evolved from the simplistic automobiles of yesteryear all the way to ultra-modern cars with high-powered, quiet and efficient engines, cruise control and navigational systems. Piping systems have led a similar course with each generation providing advantages over the next.