Is PEX Suitable For Direct Burial?

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is indeed suitable for direct burial applications. Its durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion make it a popular choice for underground installations. Here are a few reasons why PEX is suitable for direct burial:

Durability: PEX pipes are designed to withstand harsh underground conditions, including soil movement and temperature fluctuations. They have excellent resistance to cracking, freezing, and chemical corrosion.
Flexibility: PEX pipes are highly flexible, allowing for easy installation in various soil conditions and around obstacles. This flexibility reduces the need for additional fittings, minimizing potential leak points.
Resistance to corrosion: PEX is immune to the corrosive effects of soil, water, and chemicals commonly found underground. This helps extend the lifespan of the piping system.
Low thermal conductivity: PEX has low thermal conductivity, which means it resists heat loss or gain. This property is especially beneficial for buried pipes that may be exposed to temperature changes.

Overall, PEX is a reliable and cost-effective option for direct burial applications, providing long-lasting performance and ease of installation.

Understanding PEX

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a versatile polymer material used in various applications, particularly in plumbing and heating systems. Its key features and benefits include:

Flexibility: PEX is highly flexible, allowing for easier installation and maneuverability around obstacles.
Durability: PEX is resistant to corrosion, scale, and chlorine, making it a long-lasting option for pipes.
Versatility: PEX can be used for both hot and cold water supply systems, as well as for radiant heating applications.
Cost-effective: PEX pipes are often more affordable than traditional materials like copper, reducing overall installation costs.
Lower risk of leaks: PEX is known for its fewer connections, minimizing the risk of leaks and potential water damage.
Excellent insulation properties: PEX helps retain heat within pipes, reducing heat loss and improving energy efficiency.
Less noise transmission: PEX pipes dampen water flow noises, resulting in quieter plumbing systems.

Overall, PEX offers a reliable and efficient solution for plumbing and heating needs, making it a popular choice in residential and commercial construction projects.

Direct Burial: An Overview

Direct burial is a method of installation commonly used for various underground applications. It involves placing cables, pipes, or other utilities directly into the ground without the need for a protective conduit or casing. This method offers several advantages, including cost savings, ease of installation, and durability.

Here are some key points about direct burial:

Cost-effective: Direct burial eliminates the need for additional materials such as conduits, reducing installation and maintenance costs.
Simplicity: With no conduit or casing required, direct burial simplifies the installation process and saves time.
Durability: Directly buried utilities are protected by the surrounding soil, which acts as a natural barrier against external elements.
Electrical applications: Direct burial is commonly used for electrical cables, providing a reliable and efficient means of power distribution.
Telecommunication: Fiber optic cables are often installed using direct burial, ensuring high-speed data transmission.
Water and gas lines: Direct burial is also suitable for underground water and gas pipelines, minimizing the risk of leaks or damage.

Overall, direct burial offers a practical and efficient solution for a variety of underground installations, making it a popular choice in many industries.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Piping Material

Choosing the right piping material is crucial for the success and longevity of any plumbing or industrial system. Here’s why:

Durability and Longevity: The right piping material ensures that the system will withstand the demands of its intended use, resisting corrosion, leaks, and other forms of damage that can lead to costly repairs and downtime.
Compatibility: Different materials have varying chemical resistance and temperature tolerances. Selecting a piping material that is compatible with the conveyed fluids or substances is essential to avoid degradation, contamination, or unsafe conditions.
Efficiency: Proper pipe material selection can optimize the flow characteristics, minimizing pressure loss and energy consumption. This directly impacts the overall efficiency of the system, reducing operational costs.
Safety: Some materials may release toxic substances or pose health risks when exposed to certain conditions. Choosing pipes that are safe for their intended application protects both human health and the environment.
Maintenance and Cost: The right material reduces the need for frequent maintenance, replacements, and repairs, leading to lower costs over the system’s lifespan.
Environmental Impact: Consideration of the environmental impact of the piping material, such as recyclability and eco-friendliness, aligns with sustainable practices and reduces the carbon footprint.

By considering these factors, one can ensure a reliable, efficient, and safe piping system that meets the specific needs of the application.

Advantages of Using PEX for Direct Burial

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) offers several advantages when used for direct burial applications:

Durability: PEX pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, chemical degradation, and scaling, ensuring long-term durability in underground installations.
Flexibility: PEX is a flexible material that can easily bend around obstacles and corners, minimizing the need for additional fittings and reducing the risk of leaks.
Freeze resistance: PEX has excellent freeze resistance, allowing it to expand and contract without rupturing in extreme cold conditions, making it suitable for direct burial in regions with harsh winters.
Reduced joints: PEX pipes can be manufactured in long coils, reducing the need for joints. With fewer connections, the risk of leakage is minimized, ensuring a more reliable underground system.
Cost-effective: PEX is often more affordable than other piping materials like copper or PVC, making it a cost-effective choice for direct burial installations.
Chemical resistance: PEX pipes have excellent resistance to chemicals and contaminants commonly found in soil, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimizing the risk of degradation.
Ease of installation: PEX is lightweight and easy to handle, making the installation process faster and more efficient. Its flexibility allows for simple maneuvering around obstacles, reducing labor time and costs.

Overall, using PEX for direct burial offers a reliable, durable, and cost-effective solution that can withstand various environmental challenges while providing efficient water or gas distribution.

PEX: A Versatile Piping Solution

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a highly versatile piping solution that offers numerous benefits for residential and commercial plumbing systems. Its flexibility and durability make it an excellent choice for various applications. Here are some key advantages of PEX:

Easy installation: PEX pipes are lightweight and flexible, allowing for effortless installation even in tight spaces. They can be easily bent and maneuvered around obstacles, reducing the need for additional fittings.
Resistance to corrosion: PEX pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, eliminating the risk of rust or scaling buildup that can compromise water quality and flow.
Reduced noise and heat loss: PEX’s excellent insulating properties help minimize heat loss and reduce water hammering noises, resulting in improved energy efficiency and a quieter plumbing system.
Longevity: PEX pipes have a long lifespan, with many manufacturers offering warranties of up to 25 years. They are also freeze-resistant, making them suitable for cold climates.
Compatibility: PEX pipes can be used with various connection methods, including crimp, clamp, and push-fit fittings, providing flexibility and compatibility with different plumbing systems.

Overall, PEX is a versatile piping solution that offers ease of installation, corrosion resistance, energy efficiency, durability, and compatibility with different systems, making it an excellent choice for plumbing applications.

PEX vs. Other Piping Materials for Direct Burial

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is an excellent choice for direct burial applications due to its durability, flexibility, and resistance to corrosion. When compared to other piping materials, PEX offers several advantages:

Flexibility: PEX pipes can be easily bent around obstacles, minimizing the need for additional fittings and reducing the risk of leaks.
Corrosion Resistance: Unlike metal pipes, PEX does not corrode, ensuring long-term reliability and preventing potential water contamination.
Freeze Resistance: PEX pipes have the ability to expand and contract, making them more resistant to damage from freezing and thawing.
Cost-effective: PEX is often more affordable than traditional piping materials, reducing installation costs.
Easy Installation: PEX requires fewer connections, resulting in faster and simpler installation processes.
Chemical Resistance: PEX pipes are resistant to chemicals commonly found in soil, making them suitable for direct burial in various environments.

PEX: Resistant to Corrosion and Chemicals

PEX is a highly durable plumbing material known for its resistance to corrosion and chemicals. It offers several advantages in terms of longevity and reliability. Here’s why PEX stands out in this regard:

Corrosion resistance: PEX pipes do not corrode, making them ideal for both potable water systems and radiant heating applications. Unlike metal pipes, PEX does not react with water or other substances, ensuring long-lasting performance.
Chemical resistance: PEX is highly resistant to chemicals commonly found in plumbing systems, such as chlorine and various acids. This characteristic makes PEX suitable for a wide range of applications, including both residential and commercial plumbing installations.
Reduced scaling: PEX has a smooth inner surface that inhibits the accumulation of mineral deposits, reducing scaling issues. This not only improves the flow of water but also extends the lifespan of the plumbing system.
Versatility: PEX is compatible with various connection methods, including crimp, clamp, and push-fit systems, providing flexibility during installation and repairs.

Overall, PEX’s exceptional resistance to corrosion and chemicals makes it a reliable choice for plumbing systems, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimizing maintenance requirements.

PEX: Withstanding Extreme Temperatures

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is a highly durable material known for its exceptional ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Its unique molecular structure makes it resistant to both high heat and freezing conditions, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

Key features of PEX’s temperature resistance include:

Heat resistance: PEX can handle temperatures up to 200°F (93°C), making it ideal for hot water distribution systems and radiant heating applications.
Freeze resistance: PEX has excellent freeze resistance, allowing it to expand and contract without cracking or bursting in cold temperatures. This makes it a reliable choice for outdoor plumbing and hydronic heating systems.
Thermal stability: PEX maintains its structural integrity over a wide range of temperatures, ensuring long-term performance and minimizing the risk of leaks or failures.

In addition to its temperature resistance, PEX also offers benefits such as corrosion resistance, flexibility, and ease of installation, making it a preferred choice for plumbing and heating systems in both residential and commercial settings.

PEX: Flexible and Easy to Install

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a highly versatile plumbing material that offers numerous benefits. Its flexibility allows for easy installation, making it a preferred choice for both professional plumbers and DIY enthusiasts. PEX can be bent around corners and obstacles without the need for additional fittings, reducing the risk of leaks and simplifying the installation process.

Here are some key advantages of PEX:

Durability: PEX is resistant to corrosion and scale buildup, ensuring a longer lifespan compared to traditional plumbing materials.
Flexibility: PEX can expand and contract with temperature changes, reducing the risk of burst pipes in freezing conditions.
Cost-effective: PEX is often more affordable than copper or PVC pipes, and its ease of installation can save both time and labor costs.
Versatility: PEX can be used for both hot and cold water supply lines, as well as for radiant heating systems.
Improved water flow: PEX has a smooth interior surface that helps maintain water pressure and minimize energy loss.

Overall, PEX provides a reliable and efficient plumbing solution, offering flexibility, ease of installation, and long-term durability.

PEX: Durable and Long-lasting

PEX, also known as cross-linked polyethylene, is an excellent choice for plumbing and other applications due to its durability and long-lasting properties. Here’s why:

Flexibility: PEX is highly flexible, allowing for easy installation around corners and obstacles without the need for additional fittings, reducing the risk of leaks and potential weak points.
Resistance to corrosion: Unlike metal pipes, PEX is resistant to corrosion, ensuring a longer lifespan and maintaining water quality.
Freeze resistance: PEX has the ability to expand and contract, making it less susceptible to damage from freezing temperatures compared to rigid pipes.
Chemical resistance: PEX is resistant to chemicals commonly found in water, such as chlorine and mineral build-up, which helps prevent degradation and maintain optimal flow over time.
Reduced noise: PEX pipes have inherent sound-deadening properties, minimizing water flow noise compared to traditional metal pipes.
Longevity: PEX has a lifespan of 40-50 years or more, ensuring a reliable and lasting plumbing system.

PEX: Cost-effective Option for Direct Burial

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is an excellent and cost-effective option for direct burial applications. Here’s why:

Durability: PEX pipes are highly resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and scaling, making them suitable for underground installation.
Flexibility: PEX pipes are flexible, allowing for easy installation around obstacles and minimizing the need for additional fittings.
Freeze Resistance: PEX has excellent freeze resistance properties, reducing the risk of pipe damage during colder months.
Cost-effective: PEX is generally more affordable than other piping materials, such as copper or PVC, making it a budget-friendly choice for direct burial projects.
Longevity: PEX pipes have a long service life, often exceeding 50 years, ensuring a reliable and durable underground piping system.
Versatility: PEX can be used for various applications, including potable water supply, radiant heating, and cooling systems.

PEX: Low Maintenance Requirements

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is an excellent choice for plumbing systems due to its low maintenance requirements and durability. Here’s why:

Resistance to corrosion and scale: PEX pipes are not prone to corrosion or scale buildup, unlike metal pipes, ensuring a longer lifespan and minimizing maintenance needs.
Flexibility and fewer joints: PEX can be easily bent and maneuvered around obstacles, reducing the need for fittings and joints. With fewer connections, the chances of leaks and failures are significantly decreased.
Reduced risk of freezing and bursting: PEX pipes have excellent freeze resistance, expanding and contracting without breaking. This characteristic minimizes the need for winterization procedures and reduces maintenance efforts.
Chemical resistance: PEX pipes are highly resistant to chemicals, making them suitable for various applications, including hot water systems, without worrying about degradation or maintenance issues.
Minimal maintenance tasks: PEX systems generally require little to no maintenance throughout their lifespan, saving time and money on repairs and upkeep.

PEX: Freeze-resistant Properties

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, exhibits impressive freeze-resistant properties, making it an excellent choice for plumbing systems in cold climates. Here are the key reasons why PEX is resistant to freezing:

Flexibility: PEX pipes have excellent flexibility, allowing them to expand under extreme cold temperatures without cracking or bursting.
Expansion Properties: PEX pipes have the ability to expand and contract, accommodating the expansion of frozen water inside the pipes. This prevents the build-up of excessive pressure, reducing the risk of pipe damage.
Resistance to Cracking: The cross-linking process during PEX manufacturing creates a three-dimensional molecular structure. This structure enhances the material’s strength and resilience, making it highly resistant to cracking even under freezing conditions.
Fewer Joints: PEX pipes can be installed with fewer joints compared to traditional plumbing systems. This minimizes the potential points of failure and reduces the risk of leaks caused by frozen joints.

Overall, PEX’s exceptional freeze-resistant properties make it a durable and reliable option for plumbing systems in areas with cold temperatures.

PEX: Compatibility with Various Soil Types

PEX pipes exhibit excellent compatibility with various soil types, making them a popular choice for underground plumbing systems. Here are some key points regarding PEX compatibility with different soil types:

Clay Soil: PEX pipes are highly resistant to damage caused by expansive clay soils, which can exert pressure on underground pipes. Their flexibility allows them to withstand ground movements without cracking or breaking.
Sandy Soil: PEX pipes are well-suited for sandy soil due to their resistance to corrosion. Unlike metal pipes, PEX does not rust or deteriorate when exposed to sandy soils or high levels of moisture.
Rocky Soil: PEX pipes can be easily installed in rocky soil without the need for extensive digging or trenching. Their flexibility allows them to navigate around rocks, minimizing the risk of damage during installation.
Loamy Soil: PEX pipes are compatible with loamy soil, which typically has a mix of sand, silt, and clay. Their resistance to corrosion and flexibility make them suitable for long-term use in loamy soil conditions.

Overall, PEX pipes provide reliable and durable plumbing solutions across a wide range of soil types, ensuring efficient water distribution and minimizing the risk of pipe failures.

PEX: UV Resistance for Exposed Installations

PEX pipes offer excellent UV resistance for exposed installations, making them a reliable choice for outdoor plumbing systems. The durable material used in PEX pipes is specifically designed to withstand the damaging effects of prolonged exposure to sunlight. Here are a few key points about PEX UV resistance:

Protection against UV rays: PEX pipes are made with additives that act as a barrier, protecting them from the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays of the sun.
Prevention of degradation: The UV resistance of PEX helps prevent the pipe material from degrading over time due to exposure, ensuring its longevity and durability.
Color options: PEX pipes are available in different colors, such as red, blue, and white, which further enhance their UV resistance.
Versatile applications: PEX pipes with UV resistance are commonly used for outdoor plumbing installations, including water supply lines, irrigation systems, and radiant heating.

Overall, PEX’s UV resistance makes it a reliable and long-lasting solution for exposed installations where durability is essential.

PEX: Insulation Considerations for Direct Burial

Insulation considerations for direct burial of PEX:

When considering direct burial of PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes, proper insulation is crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of the system. Here are some important factors to consider:

Frost protection: In colder climates, the pipes must be protected against freezing temperatures. Insulating the pipes with foam insulation or using pre-insulated PEX products can help prevent freezing and potential pipe damage.
Thermal conductivity: Insulating materials with low thermal conductivity, such as closed-cell foam, can minimize heat loss and maintain the desired temperature of the transported fluid.
Moisture resistance: Moisture can deteriorate the performance of PEX pipes. Using moisture-resistant insulation materials, like closed-cell foam or impermeable wraps, can safeguard the pipes against moisture infiltration.
UV resistance: If the PEX pipes are exposed to sunlight, it is essential to use insulation materials that are UV resistant. UV radiation can degrade the pipes over time, leading to reduced performance and potential leaks.
Proper installation: Ensuring the insulation is correctly installed, with no gaps or overlaps, is crucial for its effectiveness. Pay attention to manufacturer guidelines and use suitable fasteners to secure the insulation in place.

By considering these insulation factors, the direct burial of PEX pipes can be effectively protected against freezing, heat loss, moisture damage, UV radiation, and other potential risks, ensuring a durable and efficient plumbing system.

PEX: Protection Against Physical Damage

PEX, also known as cross-linked polyethylene, is a durable plumbing material widely used in residential and commercial applications. It offers protection against physical damage due to its inherent properties. Here are some key aspects:

Flexibility: PEX is highly flexible, allowing it to withstand external stressors such as impact or bending without cracking or breaking.
Resistance to freezing: PEX has excellent freeze-thaw resistance, minimizing the risk of bursting or damage in cold temperatures.
Chemical resistance: PEX is resistant to chemicals commonly found in plumbing systems, ensuring long-term durability.
Corrosion resistance: PEX does not corrode like metal pipes, reducing the likelihood of damage caused by rust or other corrosive elements.
Abrasion resistance: PEX pipes have good resistance to abrasion, protecting them from damage caused by friction or wear over time.
Shock absorption: PEX has inherent shock-absorbing properties, which helps protect against physical impacts or pressure fluctuations in the plumbing system.

Overall, PEX provides robust protection against physical damage, making it a reliable choice for plumbing installations.

PEX: Code Compliance and Regulations for Direct Burial

PEX piping has gained popularity in recent years due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. When it comes to direct burial applications, it’s important to adhere to code compliance and regulations to ensure a safe and reliable system. Here are some key considerations:

Type of PEX: Only certain types of PEX are suitable for direct burial. PEX tubing designed for this purpose should have an oxygen barrier to prevent corrosion and degradation when exposed to soil.
Depth of Burial: The depth at which the PEX is buried is crucial. It must meet the minimum requirements set by local building codes, typically ranging from 12 to 18 inches.
Protection: PEX should be protected from potential damage caused by rocks, sharp objects, or other hazards in the soil. Using conduit or sleeving can provide an extra layer of protection.
Insulation: In colder climates, proper insulation of buried PEX is essential to prevent freezing. Insulation material should be appropriate for burial conditions.
Location and Marking: It’s important to accurately locate and mark the buried PEX lines to avoid accidental damage during future excavation or construction work.

By following these code compliance and regulations, you can ensure a safe and efficient direct burial installation for your PEX piping system.

PEX: Best Practices for Direct Burial Installations

When installing PEX pipes for direct burial applications, it is crucial to follow best practices to ensure a reliable and durable system. Here are some important considerations:

Choose the right PEX type: Select a PEX pipe specifically designed for direct burial installations, such as PEX-A or PEX-C, which have excellent resistance to degradation caused by exposure to soil and moisture.
Proper insulation: Insulate the PEX pipe with high-quality insulation materials to protect it from temperature variations and potential damage.
Depth and trenching: Dig the trench to the appropriate depth, considering local building codes and climate conditions. It is advisable to bury the PEX pipe at least 18 inches below the frost line to prevent freezing.
Protective measures: Use protective measures, such as wrapping the PEX pipe with a geotextile fabric or installing a protective conduit, to shield it from sharp objects or potential damage during backfilling.
Support and alignment: Ensure proper support and alignment of the PEX pipe by using hangers, clamps, or straps at regular intervals to prevent sagging or misalignment.
Avoid direct contact with corrosive materials: Keep the PEX pipe away from direct contact with corrosive substances, such as fertilizers or chemicals, to prevent deterioration.

By following these best practices, you can achieve a successful direct burial installation for PEX pipes, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.

PEX: Common Mistakes to Avoid in Direct Burial Applications

Common Mistakes to Avoid in Direct Burial Applications

Insufficient depth: Ensure that the PEX tubing is buried at the appropriate depth to protect it from potential damage. The depth requirement may vary depending on local codes and conditions, but typically a minimum of 18 inches is recommended.
Improper bedding: Proper bedding is essential to provide support and protect the PEX tubing from sharp objects in the soil. Use sand or pea gravel as bedding material to prevent damage to the tubing.
Lack of protection against UV rays: PEX tubing is vulnerable to degradation when exposed to direct sunlight. Always use UV-resistant PEX or provide adequate protection, such as using conduit or burying the tubing in a shaded area.
Inadequate protection against mechanical damage: Protect the PEX tubing from potential mechanical damage caused by rocks, sharp objects, or heavy traffic. Utilize protective sleeves or install warning tape above the tubing to prevent accidental digging or piercing.
Incorrect fittings and connections: Use the correct PEX fittings and ensure secure connections to prevent leaks. Improper fittings or loose connections can result in water damage and system failure.
Neglecting expansion and contraction: PEX tubing expands and contracts with temperature changes. Allow for expansion by using appropriate expansion loops or compensators to prevent stress on the tubing and potential leaks.
Failure to flush and pressure test: Before burying the PEX tubing, thoroughly flush the system to remove any debris or contaminants. Additionally, perform a pressure test to identify and fix any potential leaks before burying the tubing.

Remember, proper installation techniques and adherence to local codes and guidelines are crucial to ensure the longevity and performance of PEX tubing in direct burial applications.

Conclusion

In conclusion, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) can indeed be suitable for direct burial in certain circumstances. While PEX pipes offer numerous advantages such as flexibility, durability, and resistance to corrosion, they must be properly protected and installed to ensure long-term performance. Here are some key considerations:

UV resistance: PEX pipes should be protected from direct exposure to sunlight to prevent degradation. This can be achieved by burying them underground or using appropriate insulation.
Depth of burial: PEX pipes should be buried at an adequate depth to protect them from potential damage due to external forces or freezing temperatures. Local building codes and regulations should be consulted for specific guidelines.
Protection from physical damage: PEX pipes should be shielded from sharp rocks, roots, or other potential hazards that may cause punctures or abrasions. Using protective sleeves or wrapping the pipes with suitable materials can enhance their durability.

By adhering to these precautions and following industry best practices, PEX pipes can provide a reliable and cost-effective solution for direct burial applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is PEX suitable for direct burial?
A: Yes, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is suitable for direct burial. It is a popular choice for underground applications due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.

Q: What are the advantages of using PEX for direct burial?
A: Using PEX for direct burial offers several advantages. It is highly resistant to chemicals, UV rays, and corrosion, making it ideal for underground installations. PEX is also flexible, allowing for easier installation and reducing the need for additional fittings.

Q: Are there any limitations or considerations when using PEX for direct burial?
A: While PEX is suitable for direct burial, there are a few limitations and considerations to keep in mind. PEX should be protected from direct exposure to sunlight, so it is recommended to bury it at least 18 inches below the surface or cover it with a protective layer. It is also important to avoid sharp rocks or objects that may damage the PEX piping during installation.

Q: Can PEX withstand freezing temperatures when buried underground?
A: PEX has excellent freeze resistance, which makes it suitable for underground installations in regions with freezing temperatures. It has the ability to expand and contract without cracking or bursting, reducing the risk of damage caused by freezing and thawing cycles.

Q: Are there any specific requirements for fittings when using PEX for direct burial?
A: When using PEX for direct burial, it is recommended to use fittings that are specifically designed for underground applications. These fittings are typically made of brass or other durable materials that can withstand the conditions of being buried. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and choose fittings that are compatible with PEX and suitable for direct burial.

Ralph D. Moniz

Greetings! I’m Ralph D. Moniz, your reliable PEX plumbing service provider. Stay updated on all things plumbing by exploring my PEX System blog. Just search “PEX System” on popular search engines like Google or Yahoo. Need assistance? Contact me at https://pexsystem.com/contact/.