How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
In general, the device is correctly called a “welding machine.” The process of joining polypropylene takes place without the use of solder, which means it is welding and not soldering. We will use both terms.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Install nozzles of the required diameter onto the soldering iron platform and secure them with a screw using a wrench. If you are working with pipes of several sizes, use an additional pair of sleeves.
Set the heating temperature to 260 °C and turn on the device. It will take 10–20 minutes to heat up. An LED indicator will indicate that it is ready for use. You need to wait about 5 more minutes before welding the first joint.
When polypropylene is heated, harmful fumes and smoke are released, which should not be inhaled. Therefore, ventilate the room while working.
4. Make markings
While the soldering iron is heating up, prepare the pipe and fittings. For high-quality welding, they must fit into each other strictly to a certain depth. Insufficient immersion will lead to a poor connection, and excessive immersion will reduce or completely block the flow area with extruded plastic. Here are the values recommended by most manufacturers for the most common sizes:
As you can see, the soldering depth depends on the diameter of the pipes and fittings.
‑channel FV Miano
To avoid mistakes, measure the required length of the pipe, taking into account the allowance for the joint, and mark it with a pencil. Then, at the required distance from this mark, draw another line - it will serve as a guide during welding.
termpro.ru
For example, we need to connect an angle and a tee in a heating system. The distance between them is 270 mm. For fittings with a diameter of 25 mm, the soldering depth is 18 mm, which means we add another 36 mm to 270 (18 on each side). The result is 306 mm - this is exactly the piece of pipe that needs to be cut off.
5. Cut the pipe
To cut polypropylene, special scissors are used, which are also called pipe cutters. They make it easy to cut off a thick-walled pipe and get smooth edges without burrs.
‑channel “Sergey Efimov”
Place the scissors exactly perpendicular to the pipe and align the blade with the first mark. Holding the pipe with one hand, press the handles of the scissors with the other until the part is completely cut.
It is important to get an even end so that the pipe fits evenly into the fitting and is soldered equally over the entire diameter. If you cut it at an angle, the protruding part will go in too deep and the molten polypropylene will squeeze out, reducing the inner diameter of the fitting.
If the edge turns out to be uneven and the margin allows, it is better to cut it again. If the length is close, trim the end, removing all excess with a sharp knife.
6. Degrease parts
According to the instructions of all manufacturers, the parts to be welded must be degreased for a quality connection. And although many craftsmen neglect this and limit themselves to only wiping the pipes with a rag, we recommend sticking to the technology.
‑channel "KaUT Company"
Clean the pipes of any contamination. Drain off any remaining water and wipe thoroughly with a napkin or toilet paper. Clean the surfaces of fittings and pipes with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
The same alcohol can easily erase all the inscriptions on the pipes and give them a more aesthetic appearance.
7. Heat the pipe and fitting
There is a risk of serious burns when working with a hot soldering iron, so be sure to wear protective gloves. Parts of different sizes need to be heated for a certain time. The larger the diameter, the longer.
For a reliable connection, it is important not to overheat the polypropylene, otherwise the material will become fluid, melt and block the fitting from the inside.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Insert the fitting first into the corresponding soldering iron sleeves, then the pipe. When pushing parts, do not rotate them around their axis or tilt them. Insert the pipe to the previously marked depth until the molten polypropylene reaches the pencil line. Only then count down the allotted time.
All specified data is valid for work at an ambient temperature of about 20 ° C. If the room is colder than 5 °C, the heating time approximately doubles.
8. Weld the joint
Without turning or tilting, quickly remove first the pipe and then the fitting from the nozzles and connect both parts in the desired position relative to each other. Don't fuss, but don't hesitate either - you have 4-6 seconds left.
‑channel FV Miano
Hold the pipe and fitting motionless for about 5 seconds to ensure the joint locks into place. At this moment, it is allowed to rotate the connection no more than 10 degrees to correct its position.
The complete cooling time, after which the welding site can be loaded, ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
Remains of polypropylene from the nozzle can be easily removed with a paper napkin while the soldering iron is hot. If you clean already cooled cartridges, there is a risk of damaging the Teflon coating.
9. Check the connection
‑channel FV Miano
The quality of welding can be determined by a small, uniform bead at the end of the fitting. If it is not there, then perhaps the joint is underheated and the tightness will be in question. If the influx is too large, the pipe is most likely overheated and it melts inside, partially or completely blocking the flow area.
For those who are dealing with polypropylene welding for the first time, it would be a good idea to first practice and weld a few practice joints. It's better to learn on straight couplings. Unlike corners and other fittings of complex shapes, they can be easily inspected after soldering, not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, you can use one of three methods . Namely:
- using diffuse soldering (using a special device - “iron”);
- soldering using electrical fittings;
- use of cold soldering.
The most common method is diffuse soldering. In this case, various additional fittings and an electric heating device (soldering iron or “iron”) are used. This method will be discussed in more detail below.
When connecting using electrical fittings, special connecting elements are used. They are put on the ends of pipes . After this, electrical voltage is applied to special metal inserts in the fitting. As a result of heating the metal, polypropylene melts, and after cooling, a strong connection is created.
This method is rarely used, only in cases where soldering using a “soldering iron” is impossible. Large construction companies also use this method of creating communications from polypropylene pipes when performing large volumes of work. The fact is that the electrical fittings themselves are quite expensive, so using them at home is unprofitable.
Another method to connect polypropylene pipes is to use cold welding . Special glue is applied to the desired area. With its composition, the adhesive mass slightly softens the polypropylene. The result is a strong and reliable connection. You can learn more about this method by watching a video from the Internet.
But this method also has its drawbacks. Firstly, cold soldering can only be used when installing communications for supplying cold liquids (cold water supply).
When heated, the connection may lose its tightness. Secondly, the pipes must be firmly secured.
If you use cold welding in areas where pipeline movement is possible, the connection (over time) will leak.
Features of diffuse soldering
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Metal-plastic Polyethylene
Such communications are divided into subtypes:
- Polyethylene - used for laying wiring inside buildings and external routes. They can be used on high-pressure pipe connections and at low ambient temperatures.
- PVC is used to reduce the cost of repairs.
- Metal-plastic ones are the most practical products, with a useful life of more than 50 years. Ideal option for replacing hot water supply.
The widespread use of this material is due to a number of reasons. Positive properties of such structures, in contrast to metal ones:
- Long service life.
- Low corrosivity.
- Easy to install.
- Does not require special skills.
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Economical and easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to the harmful effects of microorganisms.
Your water supply
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
A soldering iron for working with polymer material is designed for joining water pipes, which differ in production technology and type of material:
- made of polypropylene - they tolerate high temperatures well, thanks to this property they can be used when installing a heating system;
- PVC: when exposed to strong heat, they partially lose their properties;
- plastic with reinforcement - due to the reinforcing layer, strength and resistance to heat increase, such communications are less susceptible to expansion upon contact with a heat source;
- heat-resistant polyethylene - tolerate long-term contact with coolant;
- polybutylene - superior in properties to analogues from other materials: they are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, elastic, and can be used in pressure heating systems;
- sections of the copper pipeline are connected with a soldering iron or gas torch.
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Before you begin, you need to prepare the installation tool. To create a reliable joint between the structures and all additional parts, you will need a special soldering iron.
It is worth noting that sometimes the connection of products made of polypropylene is called welding. However, this process has many varieties, so it is important to remember that polypropylene pipes are connected in only one way - soldering. For the installation of such a system, threaded fittings and metal-plastic are not used.
Soldering polypropylene pipes requires the use of welding machines. There are several types of devices on sale:
- heater with a round cross-section;
- flat unit.
The second type of soldering machine is popularly called an iron, which is largely due to its appearance. Such devices differ only in their design.
For the first model, Teflon nozzles are put on the heater and fixed with parts similar to clamps. In the second device, the same nozzles are screwed to the heater on both sides. The rest of the design elements are no different. The main function of the device is to perform high-quality and reliable soldering of polypropylene products.
The set of soldering devices must include nozzles. The most inexpensive device, the set of which includes a minimum number of elements, is considered to be a Chinese soldering iron. Its power does not exceed 800 W. It is presented for sale together with a stand, as well as attachments that allow soldering of PP pipes with a cross-section of 20-32 mm.
When the heating system of a private house is made of cylindrical products of this diameter, this kit will be quite sufficient. But if more professional work involving soldering is expected, you will need a better device.
For pipes with a cross-section of 40-63 mm, a different soldering kit is required. It will have to be purchased separately. The most expensive sets, characterized by increased reliability, are manufactured in large European countries. Their kit includes the following parts:
- soldering iron;
- stand;
- Teflon nozzles of different diameters;
- scissors that allow you to cut pipes at 90 degrees;
- hexagon;
- Phillips screwdriver;
- roulette;
- gloves.
Since you have to work with hot equipment to solder polypropylene pipes, you must wear gloves when performing the operation. Beginners often get burned when touching the heating element.
The design of any soldering iron is designed so that it is possible to install several nozzles at once for connecting small-diameter pipes, which saves time, especially when working with products with a cross-section of 20-40 mm.
Soldering machine power
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Polypropylene pipelines are suitable for hot and cold water supply and heating. Products with a reinforced layer of foil, fiberglass or aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 95 0 C, pressure 20-25 atm. They are used for internal water supply and heating, in the supply system from the main line.
The products have the following advantages:
- long service life;
- withstand high physical activity;
- are not destroyed by moisture or aggressive liquids;
- lightweight, making them easier to install;
- low thermal conductivity does not reduce the temperature of the coolant;
- do not impair the taste and chemical composition of the liquid;
- have low cost.
These characteristics of polypropylene pipelines make it popular in modern construction and when repairing water supply systems in residential buildings.
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Before you start soldering, you should briefly become familiar with the device you are about to use.
An important element of the welding machine is the sole, equipped with heating elements. Convenience of work is ensured by the fact that there are holes on the base that allow you to attach special soldering attachments. The temperature is adjusted using a thermostat located on the body.
Pipe soldering process
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, several welding methods are used depending on their diameter, wall thickness and area of application:
- Stykova. The technique is used for joining large-diameter pipeline elements used in industrial and public utilities. The process occurs by simultaneous heating of pipe ends pre-cut at an angle of 90 degrees with a flat disk, after which their edges are forcefully pressed against each other on a special machine.
- Coupling. The technology is practically not used in welding polypropylene pipes (mainly with HDPE); the connection occurs using electric welded couplings, into which both ends of the pipe elements are inserted. When an electric current is passed, the inner casing heats up, becomes softer and loses its rigidity. As a result of this process, it is compressed under the pressure of the outer shell, forming a strong permanent joint between the connected elements (active hardening). After cooling, the active hardening effect remains, pressing the coupling tightly to the pipes.
- Bell method. The method, widely used in everyday life and in all areas of industry, consists of connecting the two ends of a polypropylene pipe using polypropylene fittings. For heating in everyday life and industry, special welding machines (irons) and heating nozzles are used, which simultaneously heat the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fitting, after which the elements are joined.
Rice. 2 Welding device - soldering iron
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
For soldering work you will need:
- roulette;
- scissors designed for cutting PVC pipes;
- soldering iron designed for polymer pipes;
- building level.
Most of these tools are well known to those who have ever participated in construction work.
Therefore, if you decide: we solder polypropylene pipes yourself, you probably already know the necessary tools well, or you can borrow them from your friends or colleagues.
If you don't have the tools yet, they can all be easily purchased at a hardware store. It can be difficult to find just the right scissors and soldering iron. As a rule, they are purchased as a set.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with and without a soldering iron?
Of course, this tool must be available if you are going to connect PVC pipes. Specialized scissors are also called roller pipe cutters.
The tool is available for sale in one of two modifications according to its intended purpose:
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-4 cm;
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-11 cm.
Soldering iron selection
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
In general, the device is correctly called a “welding machine.” The process of joining polypropylene takes place without the use of solder, which means it is welding and not soldering. We will use both terms.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Install nozzles of the required diameter onto the soldering iron platform and secure them with a screw using a wrench. If you are working with pipes of several sizes, use an additional pair of sleeves.
Set the heating temperature to 260 °C and turn on the device. It will take 10–20 minutes to heat up. An LED indicator will indicate that it is ready for use. You need to wait about 5 more minutes before welding the first joint.
When polypropylene is heated, harmful fumes and smoke are released, which should not be inhaled. Therefore, ventilate the room while working.
4. Make markings
While the soldering iron is heating up, prepare the pipe and fittings. For high-quality welding, they must fit into each other strictly to a certain depth. Insufficient immersion will lead to a poor connection, and excessive immersion will reduce or completely block the flow area with extruded plastic. Here are the values recommended by most manufacturers for the most common sizes:
As you can see, the soldering depth depends on the diameter of the pipes and fittings.
‑channel FV Miano
To avoid mistakes, measure the required length of the pipe, taking into account the allowance for the joint, and mark it with a pencil. Then, at the required distance from this mark, draw another line - it will serve as a guide during welding.
termpro.ru
For example, we need to connect an angle and a tee in a heating system. The distance between them is 270 mm. For fittings with a diameter of 25 mm, the soldering depth is 18 mm, which means we add another 36 mm to 270 (18 on each side). The result is 306 mm - this is exactly the piece of pipe that needs to be cut off.
5. Cut the pipe
To cut polypropylene, special scissors are used, which are also called pipe cutters. They make it easy to cut off a thick-walled pipe and get smooth edges without burrs.
‑channel “Sergey Efimov”
Place the scissors exactly perpendicular to the pipe and align the blade with the first mark. Holding the pipe with one hand, press the handles of the scissors with the other until the part is completely cut.
It is important to get an even end so that the pipe fits evenly into the fitting and is soldered equally over the entire diameter. If you cut it at an angle, the protruding part will go in too deep and the molten polypropylene will squeeze out, reducing the inner diameter of the fitting.
If the edge turns out to be uneven and the margin allows, it is better to cut it again. If the length is close, trim the end, removing all excess with a sharp knife.
6. Degrease parts
According to the instructions of all manufacturers, the parts to be welded must be degreased for a quality connection. And although many craftsmen neglect this and limit themselves to only wiping the pipes with a rag, we recommend sticking to the technology.
‑channel "KaUT Company"
Clean the pipes of any contamination. Drain off any remaining water and wipe thoroughly with a napkin or toilet paper. Clean the surfaces of fittings and pipes with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
The same alcohol can easily erase all the inscriptions on the pipes and give them a more aesthetic appearance.
7. Heat the pipe and fitting
There is a risk of serious burns when working with a hot soldering iron, so be sure to wear protective gloves. Parts of different sizes need to be heated for a certain time. The larger the diameter, the longer.
For a reliable connection, it is important not to overheat the polypropylene, otherwise the material will become fluid, melt and block the fitting from the inside.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Insert the fitting first into the corresponding soldering iron sleeves, then the pipe. When pushing parts, do not rotate them around their axis or tilt them. Insert the pipe to the previously marked depth until the molten polypropylene reaches the pencil line. Only then count down the allotted time.
All specified data is valid for work at an ambient temperature of about 20 ° C. If the room is colder than 5 °C, the heating time approximately doubles.
8. Weld the joint
Without turning or tilting, quickly remove first the pipe and then the fitting from the nozzles and connect both parts in the desired position relative to each other. Don't fuss, but don't hesitate either - you have 4-6 seconds left.
‑channel FV Miano
Hold the pipe and fitting motionless for about 5 seconds to ensure the joint locks into place. At this moment, it is allowed to rotate the connection no more than 10 degrees to correct its position.
The complete cooling time, after which the welding site can be loaded, ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
Remains of polypropylene from the nozzle can be easily removed with a paper napkin while the soldering iron is hot. If you clean already cooled cartridges, there is a risk of damaging the Teflon coating.
9. Check the connection
‑channel FV Miano
The quality of welding can be determined by a small, uniform bead at the end of the fitting. If it is not there, then perhaps the joint is underheated and the tightness will be in question. If the influx is too large, the pipe is most likely overheated and it melts inside, partially or completely blocking the flow area.
For those who are dealing with polypropylene welding for the first time, it would be a good idea to first practice and weld a few practice joints. It's better to learn on straight couplings. Unlike corners and other fittings of complex shapes, they can be easily inspected after soldering, not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/kak-payat-polipropilenovye-truby/
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, you can use one of three methods . Namely:
- using diffuse soldering (using a special device - “iron”);
- soldering using electrical fittings;
- use of cold soldering.
The most common method is diffuse soldering. In this case, various additional fittings and an electric heating device (soldering iron or “iron”) are used. This method will be discussed in more detail below.
When connecting using electrical fittings, special connecting elements are used. They are put on the ends of pipes . After this, electrical voltage is applied to special metal inserts in the fitting. As a result of heating the metal, polypropylene melts, and after cooling, a strong connection is created.
This method is rarely used, only in cases where soldering using a “soldering iron” is impossible. Large construction companies also use this method of creating communications from polypropylene pipes when performing large volumes of work. The fact is that the electrical fittings themselves are quite expensive, so using them at home is unprofitable.
Another method to connect polypropylene pipes is to use cold welding . Special glue is applied to the desired area. With its composition, the adhesive mass slightly softens the polypropylene. The result is a strong and reliable connection. You can learn more about this method by watching a video from the Internet.
But this method also has its drawbacks. Firstly, cold soldering can only be used when installing communications for supplying cold liquids (cold water supply).
When heated, the connection may lose its tightness. Secondly, the pipes must be firmly secured.
If you use cold welding in areas where pipeline movement is possible, the connection (over time) will leak.
Features of diffuse soldering
Features of diffuse soldering
To perform soldering of two polypropylene pipes, you must first prepare the necessary tools and materials. For work you will need:
- electric heating device or “soldering iron”. It can be purchased at any hardware store. But, most often, equipment is rented. Any communications made from polypropylene pipes last for many decades. Therefore, there is no point in buying rather expensive equipment for one-time use. You also need to prepare nozzles for the “soldering iron” of the required diameter. As a rule, they come with the device;
- device for cutting polypropylene pipes. This could be a special roller cutter, pipe shears or a hacksaw;
- to remove burrs on the ends of pipes after cutting them, prepare a file or a sharp knife;
- measuring tools (tape measure, ruler, marker or chalk);
- rags and liquid for degreasing polypropylene surfaces (alcohol or acetone);
- the pipes themselves and additional fittings (fittings).
Also, before soldering, you should familiarize yourself with the table , which indicates the time frame for all work. It takes a certain amount of time to heat polypropylene pipes of a certain diameter to the desired state. It also takes time for the polypropylene to lock into the joint and cool completely.
small diameter pipes are used to install a plumbing or heating system . In this case it is necessary:
- with an outer diameter of 16 mm, the heating time is 5 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the complete cooling time is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 20 mm, the heating time is 6 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 25 mm, the heating time is 7 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 3 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 32 mm, the heating time is 8 seconds, the fixing time is 6 seconds, the complete cooling time is 4 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 40 mm, heating time is 12 seconds, fixing time is 6 seconds, complete cooling time is 4 minutes.
Having prepared all the tools and materials, as well as knowing the required time parameters, you can begin soldering work. How to do this correctly is described in the next chapter.
Stages of work execution
Stages of work execution
Soldering of polypropylene pipes is carried out in several stages . Namely:
- First, marking and cutting of a piece of pipe is done. After this, using a knife or file, all burrs are cut off from the cut end. If the outer diameter of the pipe is more than 40 mm, then it is necessary to cut the ends at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Now you need to “dry” check the connection . To do this, the prepared end of the pipe is inserted into the additional fittings (fitting). Check to see if there are any distortions or defects in the fitting itself. If any are found, it is better to make a replacement. After this, the end of the pipe is degreased, and the depth of the entrance to the fitting is marked on it. In this case, you need to leave a gap of 1 mm. It is necessary to avoid reducing the internal diameter of the pipe when extruding the end edge during soldering. Since pipes with a reinforcing layer are used to create a heating system, it is removed before further work (in the area that will be included in the fitting). To do this, you can use a knife or a special sewing machine.
- Now you need to select a nozzle for the electric heating device of the required diameter. It's worth practicing a little to fit the pipe onto the nozzle. It is better to conduct training on a cold tool, because during soldering this will need to be done quickly but carefully.
- The next step will be preparing the “soldering iron” for work. The selected attachments are put on it, and the equipment itself is installed on a flat, stable and durable base. It is better to place the “soldering iron” in a place so that it does not interfere with the marking and installation work itself. After this, connect the device to the power supply. A lit indicator will indicate that the soldering iron is ready for use. On some models, it is necessary to pre-set the heating temperature (in order to solder polyethylene pipes, 260 degrees will be enough).
- After heating the “soldering iron”, the connection parts are put . In this case, you must first put a fitting (additional fittings) on the nozzle and then insert the end of the pipe into the other one. It is necessary to remove (after waiting the required period of time) in the reverse order.
- After removing the connection elements from the heating device, they are inserted into each other, up to the pre-marked mark. In this case, axial rotations cannot be made.
- Now wait some time for the polypropylene to set. Further work can be continued after the joint has completely hardened.
At this point, the work on soldering polypropylene pipes is completed.
Conclusion
Conclusion
To install the heating system, polypropylene pipes with a reinforcing layer . To connect them, you can use diffuse soldering, cold welding or electrical fittings.
But it is the first option that is used most often in everyday life. By purchasing or renting an electric heating device (“soldering iron”), all the work can be done with your own hands and in a short time.
And you can get acquainted with all the subtleties by watching a video from the Internet.
Source: https://profpipe.ru/drugoe/kak-pravilno-payat-polipropilenovye-truby-dlya-sozdaniya-prochnyh-soedinenij.html
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Let's understand the types
Metal-plastic Polyethylene
Such communications are divided into subtypes:
- Polyethylene - used for laying wiring inside buildings and external routes. They can be used on high-pressure pipe connections and at low ambient temperatures.
- PVC is used to reduce the cost of repairs.
- Metal-plastic ones are the most practical products, with a useful life of more than 50 years. Ideal option for replacing hot water supply.
The widespread use of this material is due to a number of reasons. Positive properties of such structures, in contrast to metal ones:
- Long service life.
- Low corrosivity.
- Easy to install.
- Does not require special skills.
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Economical and easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to the harmful effects of microorganisms.
Your water supply
Your water supply
Coupling assembly Soldering
Polyethylene models are mounted using the welded method or using couplings/fittings (coupling assembly). How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
For new water supply networks, products made of PVC and polyethylene without reinforcement or reinforcement are suitable. Preparation requires creating a diagram of the future water supply indicating the lengths of the branches, its position and all the fittings necessary for installing the structure. Correct calculation of the lengths and number of bends will simplify the technology, increase the speed of task completion and prevent rework.
Soldering iron Pipe cutter
To solder polyethylene connections you will need:
- Soldering iron.
- Pipe cutter
- A trimmer for cutting pipes and trimming the edges of cut ends.
- Fine sandpaper for cleaning edges
- Connecting coupling (if coupling assembly)
The heating device is a special device with a sole with special nozzles of various diameters attached to it. There are devices that include two or more attachments at the same time.
The stages of technology for laying hydraulic communications will tell you how to learn to solder:
- We measure the required length with a tape measure.
- Use a pipe cutter to cut the measured length.
- Trim the cut ends. This is an important step in soldering. The cuts must be smoothly sanded and cleaned. To be more sure, you can additionally degrease it with an alcohol solution.
- We solder the ends. If a coupling connection is used when installing life support networks, then we install a coupling/fitting at one end of the structure and heat it together with the future return in a soldering iron nozzle of the required diameter. After warming up, immediately connect the ends and wait for the assembly to cool completely. The quality of welding is indicated by the presence of a shoulder.
Attention! When installing heat and water supply using a soldered seam, it is strictly forbidden for water or moisture to fall into the cavity or onto the surface. When heated, water, turning into steam, deforms the plastic structure, as a result of which it loses its strength.
What to pay attention to
What to pay attention to
Temperature conditions for soldering are described in the instructions for the tool. Modern products have an automatic heating mode depending on the size of the installed network and the welding depth. On previous brands, the heating strength was selected manually.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered? When soldering polyethylene risers, we set the temperature regulator at around 220 ° C, for polypropylene risers - 260 ° C. There is an indicator on the heating mechanism that shows the device is ready for use. The indicator lights up only in heating mode.
The duration of soldering depends on the circumferential radius of the pipeline, and can range from 5 to 40 seconds. The ends should not be overheated. This can cause a blockage to form at the adhesion site.
If you need to install a water supply of the same size, you should not overpay for the number of nozzles and the presence of a temperature mechanism.
If you plan a large volume of long-term production using networks of various sizes around the circumference, then we purchase a universal device for connection with the latest technical capabilities and characteristics.
Soldering nuances
Soldering nuances
Knowing the technology for connecting autonomous communications is not enough. For high-quality installation, you need to know a number of features of laying and soldering housing branches. How to solder plastic pipes correctly? To ensure professional assembly of technological buildings, it is necessary to remember some connection nuances:
- A warm-up time is provided for soldering assembly. This time ranges from 5 to 20 minutes.
- The production of in-house life support should be carried out at temperatures above zero.
- After soldering the ends, it is necessary to prevent them from scrolling or moving; it is enough to smoothly eliminate distortions. You need to let them cool. Turning the weld seam may cause a leak in the future. It takes the same amount of time to cool down as it does to solder it.
- The required power of the soldering tool is 1200 W.
- Home soldering irons are designed for soldering wires with a diameter of up to 32 cm. If you need to assemble products of large diameter, then we purchase a professional soldering device.
- There should be no gaps between the edge of the pipeline and the internal thread of the fitting. Gaps can leak under high water pressure. Excessive force when compressing elements can lead to a decrease in the clearance in the cavity and impair the performance of the entire structure.
- Residues of material from the nozzles should be removed after each pack produced. Since the nozzles have a special coating, carbon deposits should be removed with a wooden device so as not to damage the integrity of the surface. Scratches on the surface of the nozzle will worsen the technological characteristics of the device and render it unusable for further use.
Thinking about how to make heating?
Thinking about how to make heating?
Installation of heat supply has a number of difficulties. Heating models can be installed in rooms with low temperatures, which complicates the soldering process. For heat supply, systems are developed depending on the temperature of the water supplied to the system and the operating pressure. The use of plastic in construction has increased productivity and reduced costs for the necessary material.
Heating pipes are reinforced with fiberglass, which makes this material strong and durable.
Health protection and working conditions
Health protection and working conditions
When carrying out work related to heating heating main joints, we follow safety rules to prevent injuries and burns:
- We solder using special protective gloves.
- We monitor the cleanliness of the floor in the room. Dirt will negatively affect the quality of welding and the appearance of the entire structure.
- The soldering iron is installed on a flat horizontal surface.
- It is necessary to start working after the device has completely warmed up and after the readiness indicator has turned off.
- We do not turn off the electrical outlet during the entire installation.
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands is not difficult. The soldering process does not require professional skills or experience. Anyone can install life support networks in their own home.
The mandatory composition of the required tool includes only a soldering device. The remaining auxiliary tools can be replaced with improvised means, a pipe cutter - with a sharp knife.
A pipeline made of polyethylene structures and PVC is a reliable, durable and environmentally friendly system for supplying water and heating.
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
Source: https://VashPlastik.ru/santehnika/kak-pajat-plastikovye-truby
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
Types of pipes connected by soldering
A soldering iron for working with polymer material is designed for joining water pipes, which differ in production technology and type of material:
- made of polypropylene - they tolerate high temperatures well, thanks to this property they can be used when installing a heating system;
- PVC: when exposed to strong heat, they partially lose their properties;
- plastic with reinforcement - due to the reinforcing layer, strength and resistance to heat increase, such communications are less susceptible to expansion upon contact with a heat source;
- heat-resistant polyethylene - tolerate long-term contact with coolant;
- polybutylene - superior in properties to analogues from other materials: they are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, elastic, and can be used in pressure heating systems;
- sections of the copper pipeline are connected with a soldering iron or gas torch.
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
When you plan to repair or replace water supply networks, you will need a device for working with plastic.
Additionally, auxiliary tools are prepared:
- building level;
- pipe cutter or slicing scissors;
- a set of nozzles (included in the set of the welding machine for polymers);
- roulette;
- a shaver that allows you to remove the reinforcement of communications;
- chamfer;
- deburring tool;
- solder;
- flux.
Soldering iron for soldering plastic pipes.
Elements of the smallest diameter in everyday life are connected using the butt method much less often. Preference is given to fittings.
Solder for soldering
Solder for soldering
This is a consumable material used to connect copper sections of the pipeline. It is made in the form of wire, rods. Foil solder is also available. The materials of this group differ in composition. They can be produced on the basis of tin, zinc, lead, antimony, and silver. The quality of the seam joint depends on what metals are included in the composition. In addition, solder is divided into types based on exposure to high temperatures: low-melting, medium- and high-melting.
Fluxes and fittings
Fluxes and fittings
Fittings for plastic pipes for soldering.
Flux is necessary for welding metal parts. If you plan to use a machine for soldering plastic elements, this material is not used. Flux helps protect metal surfaces during the oxidation process. Another property of such materials is improved solder fluidity. Flux is available in different variants, differing in composition. Necessary materials for working with copper: zinc chloride, boric and hydrochloric acids.
Fittings are the connecting elements for pipelines: tees, couplings, crosses, etc. Their internal size must be equal to the outer diameter of the elements. This creates a reliable connection. However, if a PVC pipeline or other types of polymer structures are welded, then the seam connection using fittings in this case will be permanent.
Cutting scissors
Cutting scissors
The purpose of the tool is to make cuts on polymer products. If you use a pipe cutter, the edge of the communications will be more neat, and burrs will not appear. This makes further work easier.
This tool comes in different types, including:
- auto;
- guillotine cutter;
- roller shears;
- pipe cutter with ratchet mechanism (suitable for working with communications up to 75 mm in diameter).
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
When you plan to weld plastic pipes with your own hands, you need to prepare the tool in advance, since polymer products cool quickly when heated. The main criteria for choosing a soldering iron for working with elastic communications:
- type of heating element: cylindrical, flat;
- the number of nozzles in the set, their outer diameter, which will allow you to work only with pipes of a given size;
- power – determines the heating capacity of the soldering iron; when doing the work yourself, a value of up to 1.2 kW is acceptable; when choosing a tool, the size of the connected communications is taken into account;
- the type of coating of the nozzles, it is important that the polymer material does not stick to them during soldering;
- type of temperature controller - affects the error in determining the temperature of the material.
The essence of the process and soldering methods
The essence of the process and soldering methods
This technology is based on the principle of changing the structure of the material for joining individual sections of the pipeline. This ensures a connection with a high degree of strength.
Different ways to connect polymer pipes:
- electric welding installation technique – based on the use of special fittings equipped with conductive elements;
- soldering by heating parts: involves the need to change the temperature of the end sections and further compress them;
- cold welding of PVC pipes: chemicals are used that can change the structure of the plastic; after joining the pipeline sections, a permanent, strong seam is obtained, but in terms of reliability, such a connection is inferior to welding, and the elements of the system do not heat up.
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
During the installation of communications, it is important to avoid mistakes. If the installation technology is violated, the quality of the seam joint is significantly reduced, which leads to a reduction in the service life of the pipeline. The risk of leakage increases.
Security measures
Security measures
Gloves must be used for work. Do not touch the heating element after turning on the device, as it tends to heat up to +300°C.
The room where welding work is performed must be ventilated. If there is a water source nearby, it is important to secure the work area. Do not allow liquid to get on the soldering iron during the welding process.
It is necessary to make sure that the welding machine is in working condition - the integrity of the wire is not compromised.
Preparation of elements and parts
Preparation of elements and parts
It is not recommended to connect raw communications. First, the material is cut in accordance with the design of the water supply system. Even if a pipe cutter is used, the burrs still need to be removed, since they are formed, although in smaller quantities. To make communications easier to connect to fittings, chamfers are made at the end sections (angle up to 45°). A special tool is used for this. Before starting welding work, the pipes are degreased.
Before soldering, the pipe is degreased.
Preparing the soldering iron
Preparing the soldering iron
It is not difficult to operate the machine for welding polymer communications. It is installed on a stand and then connected to the network. At the same time, the required heating temperature is set (if there is such a function), which is implemented via a thermostat. After this, you just have to wait until the thermogulator warms up enough (use an electric thermometer). The duration of this period depends on the power of the unit and the heating rate. You often have to wait up to 30 minutes.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
The temperature regime varies depending on the type of communication material. Most often, polypropylene pipes are used; the temperature for them is set at +260°C (upper limit).
They work with polyethylene products under less aggressive conditions: temperature not higher than +220°C. In the absence of a thermostat, the main criterion is the heating time. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the longer it takes to warm up.
The heating time varies from 6 to 20 seconds (for communications with a diameter of 20-63 mm).
Docking rules
Docking rules
The main requirement when installing polymer communications is compliance with the axis of the pipeline. They are flexible and become plastic when heated. This increases the risk of incorrect pipe installation. To avoid the formation of sagging inside the communications at the joint area, leave a gap of up to 3 mm between the edges.
Sequence of soldering plastic pipes.
Pipe connection
Pipe connection
After waiting a sufficient amount of time, the pipe and fitting are removed from the nozzles. It is important to immediately connect them, installing them in the correct position relative to the axis of the pipeline. Complete hardening of the polymer material occurs in 2-3 minutes. However, closer to the end of this period of time, it is no longer possible to adjust the position of the pipe and fitting relative to each other. This will lead to the destruction of the formed molecular bonds. As a result, the quality of the connection will decrease.
Cleaning and cooling connections
Cleaning and cooling connections
Connecting the pipeline to the fitting.
After connecting to the fitting, the pipeline section is left in a stationary position. Wait until the temperature of the material decreases to +40°C (a change of 1-2°C is allowed). After this, it is necessary to partially remove the sagging. Under such conditions, the polymer material manages to gain strength, but still retains sufficient ductility. This makes it easy to remove beads without deforming the seam joint.
The pipeline section must not be subjected to artificial cooling. It needs to cool in the open air. It is prohibited to use special means (blowing, low temperature sources or cold water) for this.
Checking the connection quality
Checking the connection quality
The appearance of the pipe section is assessed. So, there should be no cracks in the seam. The material here should be uniform, without leaks, and the structure should not be porous. A connection without defects and with an influx of 2-4 mm is considered to be of high quality. If the pipe wall thickness is less than 10 mm, then leave a bead on the seam up to 2 mm high. When larger communications are welded, the overlap must be at least 4 mm.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes
Inadmissible actions that can lead to a decrease in the quality of the seam joint:
- violation of the temperature regime when heating pipes: insufficient thermal effect or, conversely, overheating;
- complete removal of beads or cutting off excess material from the seam before it cools;
- applying excessive force when connecting pipes, which will lead to deterioration in the quality of the joint;
- if welding is carried out without preliminary treatment of communications, the seam will not last long, because dust and dirt remain on the pipes, which reduces the adhesion of materials.
Expert advice
Expert advice
If you do not have enough experience in performing welding work, you can study the recommendations of the masters.
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
When work is carried out in areas where it is difficult to reach, it is permissible to heat the pipeline elements sequentially. First, you need to install a flange on the soldering iron nozzle, then a section of pipe. To prevent the first element from cooling down, it should be heated more strongly. To transition from difficult sections to the main pipeline line, angle fittings are used.
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
If there is no welding machine, consider other methods:
- Cold soldering. In this case, it is assumed that a special adhesive composition must be applied to the inner walls of the pipe and the outer surface of the fitting. The material can be pre-treated with sandpaper, then the pipeline elements are degreased and connected.
- Application of a compression fitting: a connecting element is used, which is fixed with a nut.
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
If there is a need to install larger communications, use the butt connection method. In this case, fittings are not used. A minimum gap is left between the pipes; they are fixed with special equipment. After alignment is completed, proceed to soldering.
Source: https://VodaSovet.ru/vodoprovod/pajka-plastikovyh-trub-instrumenty
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Welders
Before you begin, you need to prepare the installation tool. To create a reliable joint between the structures and all additional parts, you will need a special soldering iron.
It is worth noting that sometimes the connection of products made of polypropylene is called welding. However, this process has many varieties, so it is important to remember that polypropylene pipes are connected in only one way - soldering. For the installation of such a system, threaded fittings and metal-plastic are not used.
Soldering polypropylene pipes requires the use of welding machines. There are several types of devices on sale:
- heater with a round cross-section;
- flat unit.
The second type of soldering machine is popularly called an iron, which is largely due to its appearance. Such devices differ only in their design.
For the first model, Teflon nozzles are put on the heater and fixed with parts similar to clamps. In the second device, the same nozzles are screwed to the heater on both sides. The rest of the design elements are no different. The main function of the device is to perform high-quality and reliable soldering of polypropylene products.
The set of soldering devices must include nozzles. The most inexpensive device, the set of which includes a minimum number of elements, is considered to be a Chinese soldering iron. Its power does not exceed 800 W. It is presented for sale together with a stand, as well as attachments that allow soldering of PP pipes with a cross-section of 20-32 mm.
When the heating system of a private house is made of cylindrical products of this diameter, this kit will be quite sufficient. But if more professional work involving soldering is expected, you will need a better device.
For pipes with a cross-section of 40-63 mm, a different soldering kit is required. It will have to be purchased separately. The most expensive sets, characterized by increased reliability, are manufactured in large European countries. Their kit includes the following parts:
- soldering iron;
- stand;
- Teflon nozzles of different diameters;
- scissors that allow you to cut pipes at 90 degrees;
- hexagon;
- Phillips screwdriver;
- roulette;
- gloves.
Since you have to work with hot equipment to solder polypropylene pipes, you must wear gloves when performing the operation. Beginners often get burned when touching the heating element.
The design of any soldering iron is designed so that it is possible to install several nozzles at once for connecting small-diameter pipes, which saves time, especially when working with products with a cross-section of 20-40 mm.
Soldering machine power
Soldering machine power
To evenly and quickly heat a pipe with a diameter of 63 mm, greater system power is required. For domestic purposes, a device with a value that determines the amount of energy not exceeding 0.7-1 kW will be sufficient.
If the power of the iron is more than 1 kW, it becomes professional. Its cost is much higher than the price of an ordinary soldering iron.
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
It is not recommended for a beginner to purchase such a device. It can be made from iron and appropriate materials, saving a significant amount.
Method one
Method one
To make a homemade soldering iron you will need:
- a broken old iron that still has a heating element;
- children's metal construction set;
- rubber handle;
- toggle switch;
- asbestos cord;
- duralumin;
- insulating tape.
Manufacturing technology
Manufacturing technology
- use a grinder to cut off all unnecessary parts from the bottom of the iron;
- an aluminum cover is made;
- a box is assembled from the construction kit; a light bulb and a rubber handle are installed in it;
- a toggle switch and a soldering iron regulator are connected to the wire;
- all parts are combined into one whole;
- cables are soldered;
- The heating element is bolted to the body, having previously placed an asbestos gasket.
Thus, after spending a little time using available material, you become the owner of a homemade soldering iron for welding PP pipes.
Source: https://VseProTruby.ru/pajka/svarka-pp-trub.html
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Polypropylene pipelines are suitable for hot and cold water supply and heating. Products with a reinforced layer of foil, fiberglass or aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 95 0 C, pressure 20-25 atm. They are used for internal water supply and heating, in the supply system from the main line.
The products have the following advantages:
- long service life;
- withstand high physical activity;
- are not destroyed by moisture or aggressive liquids;
- lightweight, making them easier to install;
- low thermal conductivity does not reduce the temperature of the coolant;
- do not impair the taste and chemical composition of the liquid;
- have low cost.
These characteristics of polypropylene pipelines make it popular in modern construction and when repairing water supply systems in residential buildings.
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
The concept of “plastic pipes” combines a number of products that differ in use and chemical composition. The following types are distinguished:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Recommended for cold water supply. Lightweight, durable. Used for open laying.
- Polypropylene (PP). They can withstand high temperatures and pressure, and are intended for the transport of hot liquids and in heating systems. Connections of individual elements are made by soldering propylene pipes.
- Polyethylene (PE). Flexible, elastic, when heated they become soft. There are high pressure (HPV) and low pressure (LHP). Used for cold water.
- Made from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). They bend easily, withstand mechanical loads, high and low temperatures. Designed for hot and cold water supply.
- Metal-plastic. Multilayer. Used for drinking water supply and heating.
Soldering of plastic is ensured by the thermoplasticity of the material. When heated, it becomes soft, like plasticine, and individual fragments are easily connected when pressed against each other. Cooling leads to the formation of a strong joint that does not allow liquid to pass through.
During the soldering process, polyfusion occurs—the mutual penetration of molecules. Since the seam is formed from the material of the product, its chemical formula is equal to the formula of the material and retains its physical properties. At the joint there is no boundary between the elements, which explains its strength.
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
There are several methods for carrying out such an operation as soldering plastic pipes. Let's look at each in more detail.
Butt soldering
Butt soldering
This is a connection of a product with the same internal and external diameters. The sequence is as follows:
- Adjusting the ends to ensure a tight fit; for this, use an edge trimmer.
- A flat heater is pressed against the end. Allow a certain amount of time to melt.
- Remove the heater and press the ends together, leave until cool. The process of polymerization and formation of a seam occurs.
To obtain a high-quality connection, special machine-type devices are used for butt welding. Such devices are chosen for work by professionals. At the household level, this method is practically not used for polypropylene compounds.
Sleeve soldering
Sleeve soldering
Coupling soldering of polypropylene pipes is most often used for laying them in an apartment or residential building. Two parts are used here - a coupling and a pipe. The inner diameter of the coupling must match the outer diameter of the pipe. A coupling can be a piece of pipe, a tee, an elbow, a faucet, or another fitting.
Soldering is carried out using a device, on one side of which there is a coupling, on the other - a mandrel. A pipe is inserted into the coupling of the apparatus, a coupling is put on the mandrel, with the help of which the connection is made. The ends are heated simultaneously. It is important not to exceed the heating time so that the entire wall does not melt.
After heating, both workpieces are simultaneously removed from the heater, the pipe is inserted into the coupling to the marked depth. Further cooling leads to the process of polymerization of the contacting surfaces and their soldering.
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering of polypropylene pipes using electrical fittings is carried out using a coupling apparatus equipped with an electric cable. The coupling fitting is put on the pipe and connected to the heater. It heats up to a temperature of 260 0 C, melts and they are soldered together. Next, the device is turned off and disconnected from the fitting. After the connection cools, a strong contact is formed.
Other soldering methods
Other soldering methods
One of the ways to connect polypropylene pipelines is the so-called cold welding. Performed using organic solvent glue. Its application to the surface of plastic causes the plastic to soften. The treated areas must be connected immediately, as the glue evaporates quickly. This method is used to connect PVC parts that are not very flexible when heated.
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
For home communications, plastic pipes with an outer diameter of 20-63 mm are used. For their soldering, small-sized devices are chosen. This is a soldering iron of simple design, often called an iron. The devices differ in the shape of the heating element; they are cylindrical and xiphoid. Attachments in the form of a mandrel and a sleeve are put on the xiphoid ones. They are designed for end soldering. The cylindrical heater uses a long, round, crimp-type nozzle.
In addition to the soldering machine, you will need the following tools:
- scissors for slicing;
- seamstress for trimming reinforced products;
- tape measure or ruler;
- marker;
- organic alcohol for degreasing;
- rags;
- gloves.
Having provided yourself with the necessary tools, you can get to work.
Choosing a soldering machine
Choosing a soldering machine
Before deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes, you need to choose a suitable device. The first thing you should pay attention to:
- Power. At home, pipes with a diameter of up to 50 mm are used. For their soldering, a device with a power of 0.7 kW is sufficient. If you plan to solder sections with a diameter of up to 75 mm, opt for a unit with 1 kW of power.
- Type of heating element - plate or cylinder. The first option is easier to work with and should be used by an inexperienced plumber.
- Number of nozzles and their sizes. Select several diameters, matching them to the sizes of the parts used.
- Manufacturer. They give preference to well-known manufacturers who have proven themselves with quality products.
The quality of welding machines is determined by the error in the heating temperature of the part. Czech instruments are considered the best, but they are the most expensive. Russian-made devices are cheaper. For an installer who uses them for his own purposes, this is the most profitable option. Chinese products will fulfill the warranty period, but no more.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
To connect pipes using soldering, the parts to be connected are heated and inserted into each other. After cooling, we obtain a single design. To know how to properly solder polypropylene pipes, you should read the instructions. The procedure is as follows:
- Cut the required pipe size.
- We mark the depth of its entry into the coupling.
- Turn on the soldering iron for polypropylene pipes and heat the nozzles.
- We put the parts on the nozzles. We maintain the heating time (we determine it according to table 1).
- Remove the parts from the heater, connect them, press, hold for 4-6 seconds.
- Checking the quality of the connection.
The heating time and temperature of polypropylene depend on the size of the pipes being welded; this is clarified according to Table 1.
Table 1
Pipe diameter, mm | Length of welded surface, mm | Heating period, sec | Welding period, sec | Cooling period, min |
16,0 | 13,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
20,0 | 14,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
25,0 | 16,0 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
32,0 | 20,0 | 8 | 4 | 4 |
40,0 | 21,0 | 12 | 6 | 4 |
50,0 | 22,5 | 18 | 6 | 5 |
63,0 | 24,0 | 24 | 6 | 6 |
As we can see from the table, all the main soldering parameters depend on the diameter. The heating or cooling time must be respected; deviation in any direction will lead to a poor-quality connection.
Before you start soldering, you need to prepare a soldering iron. Nozzles of the required diameter are put on it. The device is connected to the network and heated to 260 0 C. This is indicated by a sound signal or a flashing green light. Next, we follow the instructions, observing the required temperature and heating time.
When the pipeline is located in inconvenient places, individual elements are heated one at a time. The first one should have a higher temperature; while the second one is heating up, it will cool down a little. After this, both parts are quickly connected and held for 4-6 seconds. When turning, corner couplings are used to ensure a right joint angle.
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Before soldering reinforced polypropylene pipes, the reinforcement layer must be removed. The aluminum in the wall requires a long time of heating to melt, plus it increases the diameter, and it is not included in standard nozzles.
A seamstress is used for cleaning. This is a metal sleeve with built-in knives, which, when rotated, remove the reinforcement to plastic. If the aluminum layer is located inside the wall, use a trimmer.
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
The main mistakes are:
- underheating or overheating of polypropylene;
- violation of the alignment of joined parts;
- violation of the soldering process;
- wrong choice of material or size.
If polypropylene is heated for more than the prescribed time, an influx of plastic occurs inside the pipe, which reduces its throughput. If the temperature is insufficient, the polypropylene joint becomes fragile and will last a short time. If the axes of the joined workpieces do not coincide, the pipeline becomes distorted, which impairs its operation. When butt welding, the material of the joining surfaces must be the same, otherwise the strength of the seam is compromised.
Soldering polypropylene pipes is a difficult process, but doable. An important point is the choice of high-quality material, a convenient and reliable soldering iron. When carrying out work, you should follow safety precautions, have protective clothing and gloves, and be sure to ventilate the room.
Source: https://trubarik.ru/polipropilenovye/pajka-polipropilenovyh-trub
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Briefly about the welding machine
Before you start soldering, you should briefly become familiar with the device you are about to use.
An important element of the welding machine is the sole, equipped with heating elements. Convenience of work is ensured by the fact that there are holes on the base that allow you to attach special soldering attachments. The temperature is adjusted using a thermostat located on the body.
Pipe soldering process
Pipe soldering process
When starting soldering, the device must be installed in the desired position and nozzles of the appropriate size must be secured to it. Using the thermostat, set the required temperature:
- 260°C for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C for polyethylene pipes.
Allow the device to warm up for 10-20 minutes until the indicator goes out.
When performing soldering, you must proceed from the following data:
External pipe size, mm | 16 | 25 | 40 | 63 | 90 |
Interval to mark, mm | 13 | 15 | 18 | 24 | 29 |
Heating duration, sec | 5 | 7 | 12 | 24 | 40 |
Maximum duration of technological pause, sec | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
Cooling duration, min | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
The soldering process boils down to the following operations:
- Using special scissors, cut the pipe to the required length, using an alcohol solution, clean the joints from dirt and grease;
- Place the pipe and counter socket in the nozzle and heat for the time indicated in the table;
- Connect the heated elements together by inserting the pipe into the socket. This operation must be performed during the time called a technological pause in the table;
- After completing the operation, check the quality of the resulting welded joint, which will be noticeable in the form of plastic rings.
Recommendations for proper soldering
Recommendations for proper soldering
We have just outlined the essence of the soldering process. However, to ensure reliable operation of the pipeline, attention should be paid to the following details:
- The first welding operation should be performed five minutes after the soldering iron has warmed up.
- If it is necessary to weld reinforced pipes, you should use a special tool called a shaver to remove the aluminum and polypropylene, which form the two top layers, from the pipe. After this, the pipes are joined according to the method already described.
- Welding work should only be carried out when the ambient temperature is above zero.
- After welding, allow the connected pipes to cool, avoiding their rotation or mutual movement. In the case where the connecting seam turns out to be of poor quality, the assembly must be cut and the welding process must be repeated.
When working with a welding machine, it is necessary to observe certain precautions, failure to comply with which may affect the quality of welded joints. In particular, it must be remembered that the nozzles are coated with Teflon, which prevents the formation of carbon deposits.
At the end of each operation, melted residues must be removed from them using a wooden spatula. It is strictly forbidden to remove any remaining material after the attachments have cooled, as this could damage the coating and cause a malfunction of the entire device.
Source: https://masterim.guru/sovety/kak-payat-plastikovye-truby/
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, several welding methods are used depending on their diameter, wall thickness and area of application:
- Stykova. The technique is used for joining large-diameter pipeline elements used in industrial and public utilities. The process occurs by simultaneous heating of pipe ends pre-cut at an angle of 90 degrees with a flat disk, after which their edges are forcefully pressed against each other on a special machine.
- Coupling. The technology is practically not used in welding polypropylene pipes (mainly with HDPE); the connection occurs using electric welded couplings, into which both ends of the pipe elements are inserted. When an electric current is passed, the inner casing heats up, becomes softer and loses its rigidity. As a result of this process, it is compressed under the pressure of the outer shell, forming a strong permanent joint between the connected elements (active hardening). After cooling, the active hardening effect remains, pressing the coupling tightly to the pipes.
- Bell method. The method, widely used in everyday life and in all areas of industry, consists of connecting the two ends of a polypropylene pipe using polypropylene fittings. For heating in everyday life and industry, special welding machines (irons) and heating nozzles are used, which simultaneously heat the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fitting, after which the elements are joined.
Rice. 2 Welding device - soldering iron
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
The thermal diffusion method used for welding polypropylene elements is realized by heating them with special devices, usually called soldering irons or irons. Structurally, the unit is a steel body with a built-in heating element, to which cylindrical heaters (nozzles) are screwed, the dimensions corresponding to the standard outer diameters of polypropylene pipes.
The temperature is set by a mechanical thermostat and two switches; in more modern devices, an electronic temperature indicator with processor-controlled heating is installed. The majority of irons have a flat shape; a less common variety has a round heating element, the nozzles on which are fixed with double-sided clamping screws.
In addition to the iron, the following tool is required for welded installation of a polypropylene line:
- Scissors. Designed for cutting polypropylene pipes, they are often supplied with a soldering device.
- Pencil and tape measure. The tool, as well as a corner and a knife, are used to accurately measure and control the location of the cut areas and remove the internal chamfer.
- Set of connecting fittings. Includes straight and angle couplings, tees, taps, threaded fittings and other fittings used to change the direction or connect plumbing fixtures to the main line.
- Household chemicals. Substances may be needed to degrease the welded surface and clean it from dirt.
Rice. 3 Tools for working with PPR
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
When deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, the following factors should be taken into account.
Working with polypropylene pipelines in narrow places is more difficult than welding on straight pipe runs in conditions of sufficient space. Inconvenient places usually include areas near the top of the ceiling, spots in corners, and tight space conditions that make it difficult to install the soldering iron on the stand. In the latter case, you cannot do without outside help; an alternative solution is a special hook, prepared in advance in a convenient place, on which you can hang a soldering iron.
If the soldered pipe sections are located too close to each other on the wall, a special technique is used - the direct and mating parts of the joint are heated in turn. In this case, the first section is heated a little longer than the allotted time, and then the pipe is heated for a shorter time and, if possible, at a higher temperature (the regulator is set to a larger diameter).
The situation when the soldered sections must be of a certain length, but when welding them in line with a soldering iron, one of the parts will have to be cut to the width of two nozzles and a heating iron, can be solved in another way.
A similar nozzle is purchased, fixed on the heating platform, and each of the segments is simultaneously soldered in different planes, after which they are connected.
Using this method, you can mount not only straight sections, but also turns on walls, thereby ensuring a tighter fit of the line to the curved surface.
Rice. 4 Welding pipeline sections with an iron with two nozzles
Source: https://montagtrub.ru/payka-polipropilenovyih-trub-v-trudnodostupnyih-mestah-sovetyi-rekomendatsii-spetsialista/
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
Required Tools
For soldering work you will need:
- roulette;
- scissors designed for cutting PVC pipes;
- soldering iron designed for polymer pipes;
- building level.
Most of these tools are well known to those who have ever participated in construction work.
Therefore, if you decide: we solder polypropylene pipes yourself, you probably already know the necessary tools well, or you can borrow them from your friends or colleagues.
If you don't have the tools yet, they can all be easily purchased at a hardware store. It can be difficult to find just the right scissors and soldering iron. As a rule, they are purchased as a set.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with and without a soldering iron?
Of course, this tool must be available if you are going to connect PVC pipes. Specialized scissors are also called roller pipe cutters.
The tool is available for sale in one of two modifications according to its intended purpose:
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-4 cm;
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-11 cm.
Soldering iron selection
Soldering iron selection
A soldering iron suitable for cutting pipes is also called a manual welding machine. The tool is a heating device that has a sole equipped with heating elements.
As a rule, it is equipped with holes of different diameters in which soldering nozzles are fixed. The soldering iron is equipped with a temperature regulator.
It also has a heating indicator, a comfortable handle and a special stand. The latter allows you to install the device on a flat surface. The tool is turned on and off by pressing additional switches.
It is the soldering iron that helps answer the question of how to solder polypropylene pipes for heating or plumbing, and how to connect them.
And if you plan to install the pipeline yourself, you should get this device. Depending on the purpose, the tool intended for working with polypropylene pipes comes in two modifications:
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 1.6-5 cm with a maximum power of 650 W;
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 6.3-11 cm with a maximum power of 1600 W.
Any soldering iron is equipped with paired nozzles of different diameters and a stand.
If you don’t yet know how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, take a closer look at the soldering iron attachments.
As a rule, they allow you to perform complex work.
- Soldering iron tips are coated with a non-stick coating, similar to the coating used in cookware.
- Therefore, the instrument requires special care and cleaning.
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Before starting soldering work, you should carefully study the technology, the necessary instructions, and learn how to use a soldering iron in order to reduce the risks of irreparable errors.
When soldering pipes, you must remember that this is part of the soldering of the pipeline, so work should begin with its most difficult step - marking.
It is the markings that will tell you how to solder polypropylene pipes smoothly. It is good when the marking is carried out by a specialist who is familiar with the drawings of the pipeline system and represents the implementation of the drawings.
Pipe cutting
Pipe cutting
Before cutting the pipes, measure the interval between the fittings and add 3 cm to the resulting distance. After this, carefully cut the pipe at a right angle with special scissors.
Fittings are put on the pipe, marking the depth on it with a marker, thereby applying a transverse mark to the product. And the longitudinal one will make it possible to join pipeline elements along the axes.
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
First, turn on the soldering iron and insert a nozzle of the required diameter into its hole. Using a thermostat, you need to set the optimal soldering temperature.
At what temperature should polypropylene pipes be soldered?
Recommended value:
- 260°С – for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C – for polyethylene.
The soldering iron is heated up for 10-20 minutes. You can know when it is ready for use by the heating indicator.
Next, the pipeline element that needs to be heated is put on the soldering iron nozzle at a moderate pace. It is heated for the time required by the technology and quickly removed from the nozzle, holding the soldering iron, if necessary.
- How long does it take to solder polypropylene pipes? As a rule, a polypropylene pipe cools down in 8-10 seconds, which means you need to work quite quickly. Using the nozzle, you can heat two elements at a time - parallel along the outer and inner surfaces.
The heated element is placed on the pipe, aligning the transverse and longitudinal marks. After this, the quality of the connections is verified. It is important that the solder seam is smooth in appearance.
For a high-quality connection, it is better to solder the pipes within the time specified in the technological tables.
Protective gloves should be used during work. Working with polypropylene pipes must be done carefully and patiently.
Soldering pipes is a simple process, but very responsible. If you want to better understand how to solder reinforced polypropylene pipes, the video on this page will help you understand the soldering technology.
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes with an aluminum layer? How to connect them? Is it possible to solder polypropylene pipes from different manufacturers?
In cases where such questions arise, special adapters must be used when soldering.
One side of them is attached to metal or metal-plastic by means of a thread, the other is soldered to plastic using standard technology.
The only difference in the work is that threads must be cut on the metal and the connection must be sealed manually to avoid leaks. It is best to use tow or sanitary flax fiber as a sealant. This material is affordable and effectively seals the joint.
Using the same technology, adapters are installed, on the basis of which mixers are connected. The products externally look as if metal threads were fused into polypropylene.
How to check the connection for leaks
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
In general, the device is correctly called a “welding machine.” The process of joining polypropylene takes place without the use of solder, which means it is welding and not soldering. We will use both terms.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Install nozzles of the required diameter onto the soldering iron platform and secure them with a screw using a wrench. If you are working with pipes of several sizes, use an additional pair of sleeves.
Set the heating temperature to 260 °C and turn on the device. It will take 10–20 minutes to heat up. An LED indicator will indicate that it is ready for use. You need to wait about 5 more minutes before welding the first joint.
When polypropylene is heated, harmful fumes and smoke are released, which should not be inhaled. Therefore, ventilate the room while working.
4. Make markings
While the soldering iron is heating up, prepare the pipe and fittings. For high-quality welding, they must fit into each other strictly to a certain depth. Insufficient immersion will lead to a poor connection, and excessive immersion will reduce or completely block the flow area with extruded plastic. Here are the values recommended by most manufacturers for the most common sizes:
As you can see, the soldering depth depends on the diameter of the pipes and fittings.
‑channel FV Miano
To avoid mistakes, measure the required length of the pipe, taking into account the allowance for the joint, and mark it with a pencil. Then, at the required distance from this mark, draw another line - it will serve as a guide during welding.
termpro.ru
For example, we need to connect an angle and a tee in a heating system. The distance between them is 270 mm. For fittings with a diameter of 25 mm, the soldering depth is 18 mm, which means we add another 36 mm to 270 (18 on each side). The result is 306 mm - this is exactly the piece of pipe that needs to be cut off.
5. Cut the pipe
To cut polypropylene, special scissors are used, which are also called pipe cutters. They make it easy to cut off a thick-walled pipe and get smooth edges without burrs.
‑channel “Sergey Efimov”
Place the scissors exactly perpendicular to the pipe and align the blade with the first mark. Holding the pipe with one hand, press the handles of the scissors with the other until the part is completely cut.
It is important to get an even end so that the pipe fits evenly into the fitting and is soldered equally over the entire diameter. If you cut it at an angle, the protruding part will go in too deep and the molten polypropylene will squeeze out, reducing the inner diameter of the fitting.
If the edge turns out to be uneven and the margin allows, it is better to cut it again. If the length is close, trim the end, removing all excess with a sharp knife.
6. Degrease parts
According to the instructions of all manufacturers, the parts to be welded must be degreased for a quality connection. And although many craftsmen neglect this and limit themselves to only wiping the pipes with a rag, we recommend sticking to the technology.
‑channel "KaUT Company"
Clean the pipes of any contamination. Drain off any remaining water and wipe thoroughly with a napkin or toilet paper. Clean the surfaces of fittings and pipes with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
The same alcohol can easily erase all the inscriptions on the pipes and give them a more aesthetic appearance.
7. Heat the pipe and fitting
There is a risk of serious burns when working with a hot soldering iron, so be sure to wear protective gloves. Parts of different sizes need to be heated for a certain time. The larger the diameter, the longer.
For a reliable connection, it is important not to overheat the polypropylene, otherwise the material will become fluid, melt and block the fitting from the inside.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Insert the fitting first into the corresponding soldering iron sleeves, then the pipe. When pushing parts, do not rotate them around their axis or tilt them. Insert the pipe to the previously marked depth until the molten polypropylene reaches the pencil line. Only then count down the allotted time.
All specified data is valid for work at an ambient temperature of about 20 ° C. If the room is colder than 5 °C, the heating time approximately doubles.
8. Weld the joint
Without turning or tilting, quickly remove first the pipe and then the fitting from the nozzles and connect both parts in the desired position relative to each other. Don't fuss, but don't hesitate either - you have 4-6 seconds left.
‑channel FV Miano
Hold the pipe and fitting motionless for about 5 seconds to ensure the joint locks into place. At this moment, it is allowed to rotate the connection no more than 10 degrees to correct its position.
The complete cooling time, after which the welding site can be loaded, ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
Remains of polypropylene from the nozzle can be easily removed with a paper napkin while the soldering iron is hot. If you clean already cooled cartridges, there is a risk of damaging the Teflon coating.
9. Check the connection
‑channel FV Miano
The quality of welding can be determined by a small, uniform bead at the end of the fitting. If it is not there, then perhaps the joint is underheated and the tightness will be in question. If the influx is too large, the pipe is most likely overheated and it melts inside, partially or completely blocking the flow area.
For those who are dealing with polypropylene welding for the first time, it would be a good idea to first practice and weld a few practice joints. It's better to learn on straight couplings. Unlike corners and other fittings of complex shapes, they can be easily inspected after soldering, not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/kak-payat-polipropilenovye-truby/
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, you can use one of three methods . Namely:
- using diffuse soldering (using a special device - “iron”);
- soldering using electrical fittings;
- use of cold soldering.
The most common method is diffuse soldering. In this case, various additional fittings and an electric heating device (soldering iron or “iron”) are used. This method will be discussed in more detail below.
When connecting using electrical fittings, special connecting elements are used. They are put on the ends of pipes . After this, electrical voltage is applied to special metal inserts in the fitting. As a result of heating the metal, polypropylene melts, and after cooling, a strong connection is created.
This method is rarely used, only in cases where soldering using a “soldering iron” is impossible. Large construction companies also use this method of creating communications from polypropylene pipes when performing large volumes of work. The fact is that the electrical fittings themselves are quite expensive, so using them at home is unprofitable.
Another method to connect polypropylene pipes is to use cold welding . Special glue is applied to the desired area. With its composition, the adhesive mass slightly softens the polypropylene. The result is a strong and reliable connection. You can learn more about this method by watching a video from the Internet.
But this method also has its drawbacks. Firstly, cold soldering can only be used when installing communications for supplying cold liquids (cold water supply).
When heated, the connection may lose its tightness. Secondly, the pipes must be firmly secured.
If you use cold welding in areas where pipeline movement is possible, the connection (over time) will leak.
Features of diffuse soldering
To perform soldering of two polypropylene pipes, you must first prepare the necessary tools and materials. For work you will need:
- electric heating device or “soldering iron”. It can be purchased at any hardware store. But, most often, equipment is rented. Any communications made from polypropylene pipes last for many decades. Therefore, there is no point in buying rather expensive equipment for one-time use. You also need to prepare nozzles for the “soldering iron” of the required diameter. As a rule, they come with the device;
- device for cutting polypropylene pipes. This could be a special roller cutter, pipe shears or a hacksaw;
- to remove burrs on the ends of pipes after cutting them, prepare a file or a sharp knife;
- measuring tools (tape measure, ruler, marker or chalk);
- rags and liquid for degreasing polypropylene surfaces (alcohol or acetone);
- the pipes themselves and additional fittings (fittings).
Also, before soldering, you should familiarize yourself with the table , which indicates the time frame for all work. It takes a certain amount of time to heat polypropylene pipes of a certain diameter to the desired state. It also takes time for the polypropylene to lock into the joint and cool completely.
small diameter pipes are used to install a plumbing or heating system . In this case it is necessary:
- with an outer diameter of 16 mm, the heating time is 5 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the complete cooling time is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 20 mm, the heating time is 6 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 25 mm, the heating time is 7 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 3 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 32 mm, the heating time is 8 seconds, the fixing time is 6 seconds, the complete cooling time is 4 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 40 mm, heating time is 12 seconds, fixing time is 6 seconds, complete cooling time is 4 minutes.
Having prepared all the tools and materials, as well as knowing the required time parameters, you can begin soldering work. How to do this correctly is described in the next chapter.
Stages of work execution
Soldering of polypropylene pipes is carried out in several stages . Namely:
- First, marking and cutting of a piece of pipe is done. After this, using a knife or file, all burrs are cut off from the cut end. If the outer diameter of the pipe is more than 40 mm, then it is necessary to cut the ends at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Now you need to “dry” check the connection . To do this, the prepared end of the pipe is inserted into the additional fittings (fitting). Check to see if there are any distortions or defects in the fitting itself. If any are found, it is better to make a replacement. After this, the end of the pipe is degreased, and the depth of the entrance to the fitting is marked on it. In this case, you need to leave a gap of 1 mm. It is necessary to avoid reducing the internal diameter of the pipe when extruding the end edge during soldering. Since pipes with a reinforcing layer are used to create a heating system, it is removed before further work (in the area that will be included in the fitting). To do this, you can use a knife or a special sewing machine.
- Now you need to select a nozzle for the electric heating device of the required diameter. It's worth practicing a little to fit the pipe onto the nozzle. It is better to conduct training on a cold tool, because during soldering this will need to be done quickly but carefully.
- The next step will be preparing the “soldering iron” for work. The selected attachments are put on it, and the equipment itself is installed on a flat, stable and durable base. It is better to place the “soldering iron” in a place so that it does not interfere with the marking and installation work itself. After this, connect the device to the power supply. A lit indicator will indicate that the soldering iron is ready for use. On some models, it is necessary to pre-set the heating temperature (in order to solder polyethylene pipes, 260 degrees will be enough).
- After heating the “soldering iron”, the connection parts are put . In this case, you must first put a fitting (additional fittings) on the nozzle and then insert the end of the pipe into the other one. It is necessary to remove (after waiting the required period of time) in the reverse order.
- After removing the connection elements from the heating device, they are inserted into each other, up to the pre-marked mark. In this case, axial rotations cannot be made.
- Now wait some time for the polypropylene to set. Further work can be continued after the joint has completely hardened.
At this point, the work on soldering polypropylene pipes is completed.
Conclusion
To install the heating system, polypropylene pipes with a reinforcing layer . To connect them, you can use diffuse soldering, cold welding or electrical fittings.
But it is the first option that is used most often in everyday life. By purchasing or renting an electric heating device (“soldering iron”), all the work can be done with your own hands and in a short time.
And you can get acquainted with all the subtleties by watching a video from the Internet.
Source: https://profpipe.ru/drugoe/kak-pravilno-payat-polipropilenovye-truby-dlya-sozdaniya-prochnyh-soedinenij.html
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Metal-plastic Polyethylene
Such communications are divided into subtypes:
- Polyethylene - used for laying wiring inside buildings and external routes. They can be used on high-pressure pipe connections and at low ambient temperatures.
- PVC is used to reduce the cost of repairs.
- Metal-plastic ones are the most practical products, with a useful life of more than 50 years. Ideal option for replacing hot water supply.
The widespread use of this material is due to a number of reasons. Positive properties of such structures, in contrast to metal ones:
- Long service life.
- Low corrosivity.
- Easy to install.
- Does not require special skills.
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Economical and easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to the harmful effects of microorganisms.
Your water supply
Coupling assembly Soldering
Polyethylene models are mounted using the welded method or using couplings/fittings (coupling assembly). How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
For new water supply networks, products made of PVC and polyethylene without reinforcement or reinforcement are suitable. Preparation requires creating a diagram of the future water supply indicating the lengths of the branches, its position and all the fittings necessary for installing the structure. Correct calculation of the lengths and number of bends will simplify the technology, increase the speed of task completion and prevent rework.
Soldering iron Pipe cutter
To solder polyethylene connections you will need:
- Soldering iron.
- Pipe cutter
- A trimmer for cutting pipes and trimming the edges of cut ends.
- Fine sandpaper for cleaning edges
- Connecting coupling (if coupling assembly)
The heating device is a special device with a sole with special nozzles of various diameters attached to it. There are devices that include two or more attachments at the same time.
The stages of technology for laying hydraulic communications will tell you how to learn to solder:
- We measure the required length with a tape measure.
- Use a pipe cutter to cut the measured length.
- Trim the cut ends. This is an important step in soldering. The cuts must be smoothly sanded and cleaned. To be more sure, you can additionally degrease it with an alcohol solution.
- We solder the ends. If a coupling connection is used when installing life support networks, then we install a coupling/fitting at one end of the structure and heat it together with the future return in a soldering iron nozzle of the required diameter. After warming up, immediately connect the ends and wait for the assembly to cool completely. The quality of welding is indicated by the presence of a shoulder.
Attention! When installing heat and water supply using a soldered seam, it is strictly forbidden for water or moisture to fall into the cavity or onto the surface. When heated, water, turning into steam, deforms the plastic structure, as a result of which it loses its strength.
What to pay attention to
Temperature conditions for soldering are described in the instructions for the tool. Modern products have an automatic heating mode depending on the size of the installed network and the welding depth. On previous brands, the heating strength was selected manually.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered? When soldering polyethylene risers, we set the temperature regulator at around 220 ° C, for polypropylene risers - 260 ° C. There is an indicator on the heating mechanism that shows the device is ready for use. The indicator lights up only in heating mode.
The duration of soldering depends on the circumferential radius of the pipeline, and can range from 5 to 40 seconds. The ends should not be overheated. This can cause a blockage to form at the adhesion site.
If you need to install a water supply of the same size, you should not overpay for the number of nozzles and the presence of a temperature mechanism.
If you plan a large volume of long-term production using networks of various sizes around the circumference, then we purchase a universal device for connection with the latest technical capabilities and characteristics.
Soldering nuances
Knowing the technology for connecting autonomous communications is not enough. For high-quality installation, you need to know a number of features of laying and soldering housing branches. How to solder plastic pipes correctly? To ensure professional assembly of technological buildings, it is necessary to remember some connection nuances:
- A warm-up time is provided for soldering assembly. This time ranges from 5 to 20 minutes.
- The production of in-house life support should be carried out at temperatures above zero.
- After soldering the ends, it is necessary to prevent them from scrolling or moving; it is enough to smoothly eliminate distortions. You need to let them cool. Turning the weld seam may cause a leak in the future. It takes the same amount of time to cool down as it does to solder it.
- The required power of the soldering tool is 1200 W.
- Home soldering irons are designed for soldering wires with a diameter of up to 32 cm. If you need to assemble products of large diameter, then we purchase a professional soldering device.
- There should be no gaps between the edge of the pipeline and the internal thread of the fitting. Gaps can leak under high water pressure. Excessive force when compressing elements can lead to a decrease in the clearance in the cavity and impair the performance of the entire structure.
- Residues of material from the nozzles should be removed after each pack produced. Since the nozzles have a special coating, carbon deposits should be removed with a wooden device so as not to damage the integrity of the surface. Scratches on the surface of the nozzle will worsen the technological characteristics of the device and render it unusable for further use.
Thinking about how to make heating?
Installation of heat supply has a number of difficulties. Heating models can be installed in rooms with low temperatures, which complicates the soldering process. For heat supply, systems are developed depending on the temperature of the water supplied to the system and the operating pressure. The use of plastic in construction has increased productivity and reduced costs for the necessary material.
Heating pipes are reinforced with fiberglass, which makes this material strong and durable.
Health protection and working conditions
When carrying out work related to heating heating main joints, we follow safety rules to prevent injuries and burns:
- We solder using special protective gloves.
- We monitor the cleanliness of the floor in the room. Dirt will negatively affect the quality of welding and the appearance of the entire structure.
- The soldering iron is installed on a flat horizontal surface.
- It is necessary to start working after the device has completely warmed up and after the readiness indicator has turned off.
- We do not turn off the electrical outlet during the entire installation.
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands is not difficult. The soldering process does not require professional skills or experience. Anyone can install life support networks in their own home.
The mandatory composition of the required tool includes only a soldering device. The remaining auxiliary tools can be replaced with improvised means, a pipe cutter - with a sharp knife.
A pipeline made of polyethylene structures and PVC is a reliable, durable and environmentally friendly system for supplying water and heating.
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
Source: https://VashPlastik.ru/santehnika/kak-pajat-plastikovye-truby
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
A soldering iron for working with polymer material is designed for joining water pipes, which differ in production technology and type of material:
- made of polypropylene - they tolerate high temperatures well, thanks to this property they can be used when installing a heating system;
- PVC: when exposed to strong heat, they partially lose their properties;
- plastic with reinforcement - due to the reinforcing layer, strength and resistance to heat increase, such communications are less susceptible to expansion upon contact with a heat source;
- heat-resistant polyethylene - tolerate long-term contact with coolant;
- polybutylene - superior in properties to analogues from other materials: they are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, elastic, and can be used in pressure heating systems;
- sections of the copper pipeline are connected with a soldering iron or gas torch.
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
When you plan to repair or replace water supply networks, you will need a device for working with plastic.
Additionally, auxiliary tools are prepared:
- building level;
- pipe cutter or slicing scissors;
- a set of nozzles (included in the set of the welding machine for polymers);
- roulette;
- a shaver that allows you to remove the reinforcement of communications;
- chamfer;
- deburring tool;
- solder;
- flux.
Soldering iron for soldering plastic pipes.
Elements of the smallest diameter in everyday life are connected using the butt method much less often. Preference is given to fittings.
Solder for soldering
This is a consumable material used to connect copper sections of the pipeline. It is made in the form of wire, rods. Foil solder is also available. The materials of this group differ in composition. They can be produced on the basis of tin, zinc, lead, antimony, and silver. The quality of the seam joint depends on what metals are included in the composition. In addition, solder is divided into types based on exposure to high temperatures: low-melting, medium- and high-melting.
Fluxes and fittings
Fittings for plastic pipes for soldering.
Flux is necessary for welding metal parts. If you plan to use a machine for soldering plastic elements, this material is not used. Flux helps protect metal surfaces during the oxidation process. Another property of such materials is improved solder fluidity. Flux is available in different variants, differing in composition. Necessary materials for working with copper: zinc chloride, boric and hydrochloric acids.
Fittings are the connecting elements for pipelines: tees, couplings, crosses, etc. Their internal size must be equal to the outer diameter of the elements. This creates a reliable connection. However, if a PVC pipeline or other types of polymer structures are welded, then the seam connection using fittings in this case will be permanent.
Cutting scissors
The purpose of the tool is to make cuts on polymer products. If you use a pipe cutter, the edge of the communications will be more neat, and burrs will not appear. This makes further work easier.
This tool comes in different types, including:
- auto;
- guillotine cutter;
- roller shears;
- pipe cutter with ratchet mechanism (suitable for working with communications up to 75 mm in diameter).
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
When you plan to weld plastic pipes with your own hands, you need to prepare the tool in advance, since polymer products cool quickly when heated. The main criteria for choosing a soldering iron for working with elastic communications:
- type of heating element: cylindrical, flat;
- the number of nozzles in the set, their outer diameter, which will allow you to work only with pipes of a given size;
- power – determines the heating capacity of the soldering iron; when doing the work yourself, a value of up to 1.2 kW is acceptable; when choosing a tool, the size of the connected communications is taken into account;
- the type of coating of the nozzles, it is important that the polymer material does not stick to them during soldering;
- type of temperature controller - affects the error in determining the temperature of the material.
The essence of the process and soldering methods
This technology is based on the principle of changing the structure of the material for joining individual sections of the pipeline. This ensures a connection with a high degree of strength.
Different ways to connect polymer pipes:
- electric welding installation technique – based on the use of special fittings equipped with conductive elements;
- soldering by heating parts: involves the need to change the temperature of the end sections and further compress them;
- cold welding of PVC pipes: chemicals are used that can change the structure of the plastic; after joining the pipeline sections, a permanent, strong seam is obtained, but in terms of reliability, such a connection is inferior to welding, and the elements of the system do not heat up.
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
During the installation of communications, it is important to avoid mistakes. If the installation technology is violated, the quality of the seam joint is significantly reduced, which leads to a reduction in the service life of the pipeline. The risk of leakage increases.
Security measures
Gloves must be used for work. Do not touch the heating element after turning on the device, as it tends to heat up to +300°C.
The room where welding work is performed must be ventilated. If there is a water source nearby, it is important to secure the work area. Do not allow liquid to get on the soldering iron during the welding process.
It is necessary to make sure that the welding machine is in working condition - the integrity of the wire is not compromised.
Preparation of elements and parts
It is not recommended to connect raw communications. First, the material is cut in accordance with the design of the water supply system. Even if a pipe cutter is used, the burrs still need to be removed, since they are formed, although in smaller quantities. To make communications easier to connect to fittings, chamfers are made at the end sections (angle up to 45°). A special tool is used for this. Before starting welding work, the pipes are degreased.
Before soldering, the pipe is degreased.
Preparing the soldering iron
It is not difficult to operate the machine for welding polymer communications. It is installed on a stand and then connected to the network. At the same time, the required heating temperature is set (if there is such a function), which is implemented via a thermostat. After this, you just have to wait until the thermogulator warms up enough (use an electric thermometer). The duration of this period depends on the power of the unit and the heating rate. You often have to wait up to 30 minutes.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
The temperature regime varies depending on the type of communication material. Most often, polypropylene pipes are used; the temperature for them is set at +260°C (upper limit).
They work with polyethylene products under less aggressive conditions: temperature not higher than +220°C. In the absence of a thermostat, the main criterion is the heating time. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the longer it takes to warm up.
The heating time varies from 6 to 20 seconds (for communications with a diameter of 20-63 mm).
Docking rules
The main requirement when installing polymer communications is compliance with the axis of the pipeline. They are flexible and become plastic when heated. This increases the risk of incorrect pipe installation. To avoid the formation of sagging inside the communications at the joint area, leave a gap of up to 3 mm between the edges.
Sequence of soldering plastic pipes.
Pipe connection
After waiting a sufficient amount of time, the pipe and fitting are removed from the nozzles. It is important to immediately connect them, installing them in the correct position relative to the axis of the pipeline. Complete hardening of the polymer material occurs in 2-3 minutes. However, closer to the end of this period of time, it is no longer possible to adjust the position of the pipe and fitting relative to each other. This will lead to the destruction of the formed molecular bonds. As a result, the quality of the connection will decrease.
Cleaning and cooling connections
Connecting the pipeline to the fitting.
After connecting to the fitting, the pipeline section is left in a stationary position. Wait until the temperature of the material decreases to +40°C (a change of 1-2°C is allowed). After this, it is necessary to partially remove the sagging. Under such conditions, the polymer material manages to gain strength, but still retains sufficient ductility. This makes it easy to remove beads without deforming the seam joint.
The pipeline section must not be subjected to artificial cooling. It needs to cool in the open air. It is prohibited to use special means (blowing, low temperature sources or cold water) for this.
Checking the connection quality
The appearance of the pipe section is assessed. So, there should be no cracks in the seam. The material here should be uniform, without leaks, and the structure should not be porous. A connection without defects and with an influx of 2-4 mm is considered to be of high quality. If the pipe wall thickness is less than 10 mm, then leave a bead on the seam up to 2 mm high. When larger communications are welded, the overlap must be at least 4 mm.
Common mistakes
Inadmissible actions that can lead to a decrease in the quality of the seam joint:
- violation of the temperature regime when heating pipes: insufficient thermal effect or, conversely, overheating;
- complete removal of beads or cutting off excess material from the seam before it cools;
- applying excessive force when connecting pipes, which will lead to deterioration in the quality of the joint;
- if welding is carried out without preliminary treatment of communications, the seam will not last long, because dust and dirt remain on the pipes, which reduces the adhesion of materials.
Expert advice
If you do not have enough experience in performing welding work, you can study the recommendations of the masters.
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
When work is carried out in areas where it is difficult to reach, it is permissible to heat the pipeline elements sequentially. First, you need to install a flange on the soldering iron nozzle, then a section of pipe. To prevent the first element from cooling down, it should be heated more strongly. To transition from difficult sections to the main pipeline line, angle fittings are used.
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
If there is no welding machine, consider other methods:
- Cold soldering. In this case, it is assumed that a special adhesive composition must be applied to the inner walls of the pipe and the outer surface of the fitting. The material can be pre-treated with sandpaper, then the pipeline elements are degreased and connected.
- Application of a compression fitting: a connecting element is used, which is fixed with a nut.
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
If there is a need to install larger communications, use the butt connection method. In this case, fittings are not used. A minimum gap is left between the pipes; they are fixed with special equipment. After alignment is completed, proceed to soldering.
Source: https://VodaSovet.ru/vodoprovod/pajka-plastikovyh-trub-instrumenty
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Before you begin, you need to prepare the installation tool. To create a reliable joint between the structures and all additional parts, you will need a special soldering iron.
It is worth noting that sometimes the connection of products made of polypropylene is called welding. However, this process has many varieties, so it is important to remember that polypropylene pipes are connected in only one way - soldering. For the installation of such a system, threaded fittings and metal-plastic are not used.
Soldering polypropylene pipes requires the use of welding machines. There are several types of devices on sale:
- heater with a round cross-section;
- flat unit.
The second type of soldering machine is popularly called an iron, which is largely due to its appearance. Such devices differ only in their design.
For the first model, Teflon nozzles are put on the heater and fixed with parts similar to clamps. In the second device, the same nozzles are screwed to the heater on both sides. The rest of the design elements are no different. The main function of the device is to perform high-quality and reliable soldering of polypropylene products.
The set of soldering devices must include nozzles. The most inexpensive device, the set of which includes a minimum number of elements, is considered to be a Chinese soldering iron. Its power does not exceed 800 W. It is presented for sale together with a stand, as well as attachments that allow soldering of PP pipes with a cross-section of 20-32 mm.
When the heating system of a private house is made of cylindrical products of this diameter, this kit will be quite sufficient. But if more professional work involving soldering is expected, you will need a better device.
For pipes with a cross-section of 40-63 mm, a different soldering kit is required. It will have to be purchased separately. The most expensive sets, characterized by increased reliability, are manufactured in large European countries. Their kit includes the following parts:
- soldering iron;
- stand;
- Teflon nozzles of different diameters;
- scissors that allow you to cut pipes at 90 degrees;
- hexagon;
- Phillips screwdriver;
- roulette;
- gloves.
Since you have to work with hot equipment to solder polypropylene pipes, you must wear gloves when performing the operation. Beginners often get burned when touching the heating element.
The design of any soldering iron is designed so that it is possible to install several nozzles at once for connecting small-diameter pipes, which saves time, especially when working with products with a cross-section of 20-40 mm.
Soldering machine power
To evenly and quickly heat a pipe with a diameter of 63 mm, greater system power is required. For domestic purposes, a device with a value that determines the amount of energy not exceeding 0.7-1 kW will be sufficient.
If the power of the iron is more than 1 kW, it becomes professional. Its cost is much higher than the price of an ordinary soldering iron.
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
It is not recommended for a beginner to purchase such a device. It can be made from iron and appropriate materials, saving a significant amount.
Method one
To make a homemade soldering iron you will need:
- a broken old iron that still has a heating element;
- children's metal construction set;
- rubber handle;
- toggle switch;
- asbestos cord;
- duralumin;
- insulating tape.
Manufacturing technology
- use a grinder to cut off all unnecessary parts from the bottom of the iron;
- an aluminum cover is made;
- a box is assembled from the construction kit; a light bulb and a rubber handle are installed in it;
- a toggle switch and a soldering iron regulator are connected to the wire;
- all parts are combined into one whole;
- cables are soldered;
- The heating element is bolted to the body, having previously placed an asbestos gasket.
Thus, after spending a little time using available material, you become the owner of a homemade soldering iron for welding PP pipes.
Source: https://VseProTruby.ru/pajka/svarka-pp-trub.html
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Polypropylene pipelines are suitable for hot and cold water supply and heating. Products with a reinforced layer of foil, fiberglass or aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 95 0 C, pressure 20-25 atm. They are used for internal water supply and heating, in the supply system from the main line.
The products have the following advantages:
- long service life;
- withstand high physical activity;
- are not destroyed by moisture or aggressive liquids;
- lightweight, making them easier to install;
- low thermal conductivity does not reduce the temperature of the coolant;
- do not impair the taste and chemical composition of the liquid;
- have low cost.
These characteristics of polypropylene pipelines make it popular in modern construction and when repairing water supply systems in residential buildings.
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
The concept of “plastic pipes” combines a number of products that differ in use and chemical composition. The following types are distinguished:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Recommended for cold water supply. Lightweight, durable. Used for open laying.
- Polypropylene (PP). They can withstand high temperatures and pressure, and are intended for the transport of hot liquids and in heating systems. Connections of individual elements are made by soldering propylene pipes.
- Polyethylene (PE). Flexible, elastic, when heated they become soft. There are high pressure (HPV) and low pressure (LHP). Used for cold water.
- Made from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). They bend easily, withstand mechanical loads, high and low temperatures. Designed for hot and cold water supply.
- Metal-plastic. Multilayer. Used for drinking water supply and heating.
Soldering of plastic is ensured by the thermoplasticity of the material. When heated, it becomes soft, like plasticine, and individual fragments are easily connected when pressed against each other. Cooling leads to the formation of a strong joint that does not allow liquid to pass through.
During the soldering process, polyfusion occurs—the mutual penetration of molecules. Since the seam is formed from the material of the product, its chemical formula is equal to the formula of the material and retains its physical properties. At the joint there is no boundary between the elements, which explains its strength.
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
There are several methods for carrying out such an operation as soldering plastic pipes. Let's look at each in more detail.
Butt soldering
This is a connection of a product with the same internal and external diameters. The sequence is as follows:
- Adjusting the ends to ensure a tight fit; for this, use an edge trimmer.
- A flat heater is pressed against the end. Allow a certain amount of time to melt.
- Remove the heater and press the ends together, leave until cool. The process of polymerization and formation of a seam occurs.
To obtain a high-quality connection, special machine-type devices are used for butt welding. Such devices are chosen for work by professionals. At the household level, this method is practically not used for polypropylene compounds.
Sleeve soldering
Coupling soldering of polypropylene pipes is most often used for laying them in an apartment or residential building. Two parts are used here - a coupling and a pipe. The inner diameter of the coupling must match the outer diameter of the pipe. A coupling can be a piece of pipe, a tee, an elbow, a faucet, or another fitting.
Soldering is carried out using a device, on one side of which there is a coupling, on the other - a mandrel. A pipe is inserted into the coupling of the apparatus, a coupling is put on the mandrel, with the help of which the connection is made. The ends are heated simultaneously. It is important not to exceed the heating time so that the entire wall does not melt.
After heating, both workpieces are simultaneously removed from the heater, the pipe is inserted into the coupling to the marked depth. Further cooling leads to the process of polymerization of the contacting surfaces and their soldering.
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering of polypropylene pipes using electrical fittings is carried out using a coupling apparatus equipped with an electric cable. The coupling fitting is put on the pipe and connected to the heater. It heats up to a temperature of 260 0 C, melts and they are soldered together. Next, the device is turned off and disconnected from the fitting. After the connection cools, a strong contact is formed.
Other soldering methods
One of the ways to connect polypropylene pipelines is the so-called cold welding. Performed using organic solvent glue. Its application to the surface of plastic causes the plastic to soften. The treated areas must be connected immediately, as the glue evaporates quickly. This method is used to connect PVC parts that are not very flexible when heated.
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
For home communications, plastic pipes with an outer diameter of 20-63 mm are used. For their soldering, small-sized devices are chosen. This is a soldering iron of simple design, often called an iron. The devices differ in the shape of the heating element; they are cylindrical and xiphoid. Attachments in the form of a mandrel and a sleeve are put on the xiphoid ones. They are designed for end soldering. The cylindrical heater uses a long, round, crimp-type nozzle.
In addition to the soldering machine, you will need the following tools:
- scissors for slicing;
- seamstress for trimming reinforced products;
- tape measure or ruler;
- marker;
- organic alcohol for degreasing;
- rags;
- gloves.
Having provided yourself with the necessary tools, you can get to work.
Choosing a soldering machine
Before deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes, you need to choose a suitable device. The first thing you should pay attention to:
- Power. At home, pipes with a diameter of up to 50 mm are used. For their soldering, a device with a power of 0.7 kW is sufficient. If you plan to solder sections with a diameter of up to 75 mm, opt for a unit with 1 kW of power.
- Type of heating element - plate or cylinder. The first option is easier to work with and should be used by an inexperienced plumber.
- Number of nozzles and their sizes. Select several diameters, matching them to the sizes of the parts used.
- Manufacturer. They give preference to well-known manufacturers who have proven themselves with quality products.
The quality of welding machines is determined by the error in the heating temperature of the part. Czech instruments are considered the best, but they are the most expensive. Russian-made devices are cheaper. For an installer who uses them for his own purposes, this is the most profitable option. Chinese products will fulfill the warranty period, but no more.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
To connect pipes using soldering, the parts to be connected are heated and inserted into each other. After cooling, we obtain a single design. To know how to properly solder polypropylene pipes, you should read the instructions. The procedure is as follows:
- Cut the required pipe size.
- We mark the depth of its entry into the coupling.
- Turn on the soldering iron for polypropylene pipes and heat the nozzles.
- We put the parts on the nozzles. We maintain the heating time (we determine it according to table 1).
- Remove the parts from the heater, connect them, press, hold for 4-6 seconds.
- Checking the quality of the connection.
The heating time and temperature of polypropylene depend on the size of the pipes being welded; this is clarified according to Table 1.
Table 1
Pipe diameter, mm | Length of welded surface, mm | Heating period, sec | Welding period, sec | Cooling period, min |
16,0 | 13,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
20,0 | 14,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
25,0 | 16,0 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
32,0 | 20,0 | 8 | 4 | 4 |
40,0 | 21,0 | 12 | 6 | 4 |
50,0 | 22,5 | 18 | 6 | 5 |
63,0 | 24,0 | 24 | 6 | 6 |
As we can see from the table, all the main soldering parameters depend on the diameter. The heating or cooling time must be respected; deviation in any direction will lead to a poor-quality connection.
Before you start soldering, you need to prepare a soldering iron. Nozzles of the required diameter are put on it. The device is connected to the network and heated to 260 0 C. This is indicated by a sound signal or a flashing green light. Next, we follow the instructions, observing the required temperature and heating time.
When the pipeline is located in inconvenient places, individual elements are heated one at a time. The first one should have a higher temperature; while the second one is heating up, it will cool down a little. After this, both parts are quickly connected and held for 4-6 seconds. When turning, corner couplings are used to ensure a right joint angle.
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Before soldering reinforced polypropylene pipes, the reinforcement layer must be removed. The aluminum in the wall requires a long time of heating to melt, plus it increases the diameter, and it is not included in standard nozzles.
A seamstress is used for cleaning. This is a metal sleeve with built-in knives, which, when rotated, remove the reinforcement to plastic. If the aluminum layer is located inside the wall, use a trimmer.
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
The main mistakes are:
- underheating or overheating of polypropylene;
- violation of the alignment of joined parts;
- violation of the soldering process;
- wrong choice of material or size.
If polypropylene is heated for more than the prescribed time, an influx of plastic occurs inside the pipe, which reduces its throughput. If the temperature is insufficient, the polypropylene joint becomes fragile and will last a short time. If the axes of the joined workpieces do not coincide, the pipeline becomes distorted, which impairs its operation. When butt welding, the material of the joining surfaces must be the same, otherwise the strength of the seam is compromised.
Soldering polypropylene pipes is a difficult process, but doable. An important point is the choice of high-quality material, a convenient and reliable soldering iron. When carrying out work, you should follow safety precautions, have protective clothing and gloves, and be sure to ventilate the room.
Source: https://trubarik.ru/polipropilenovye/pajka-polipropilenovyh-trub
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Before you start soldering, you should briefly become familiar with the device you are about to use.
An important element of the welding machine is the sole, equipped with heating elements. Convenience of work is ensured by the fact that there are holes on the base that allow you to attach special soldering attachments. The temperature is adjusted using a thermostat located on the body.
Pipe soldering process
When starting soldering, the device must be installed in the desired position and nozzles of the appropriate size must be secured to it. Using the thermostat, set the required temperature:
- 260°C for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C for polyethylene pipes.
Allow the device to warm up for 10-20 minutes until the indicator goes out.
When performing soldering, you must proceed from the following data:
External pipe size, mm | 16 | 25 | 40 | 63 | 90 |
Interval to mark, mm | 13 | 15 | 18 | 24 | 29 |
Heating duration, sec | 5 | 7 | 12 | 24 | 40 |
Maximum duration of technological pause, sec | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
Cooling duration, min | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
The soldering process boils down to the following operations:
- Using special scissors, cut the pipe to the required length, using an alcohol solution, clean the joints from dirt and grease;
- Place the pipe and counter socket in the nozzle and heat for the time indicated in the table;
- Connect the heated elements together by inserting the pipe into the socket. This operation must be performed during the time called a technological pause in the table;
- After completing the operation, check the quality of the resulting welded joint, which will be noticeable in the form of plastic rings.
Recommendations for proper soldering
We have just outlined the essence of the soldering process. However, to ensure reliable operation of the pipeline, attention should be paid to the following details:
- The first welding operation should be performed five minutes after the soldering iron has warmed up.
- If it is necessary to weld reinforced pipes, you should use a special tool called a shaver to remove the aluminum and polypropylene, which form the two top layers, from the pipe. After this, the pipes are joined according to the method already described.
- Welding work should only be carried out when the ambient temperature is above zero.
- After welding, allow the connected pipes to cool, avoiding their rotation or mutual movement. In the case where the connecting seam turns out to be of poor quality, the assembly must be cut and the welding process must be repeated.
When working with a welding machine, it is necessary to observe certain precautions, failure to comply with which may affect the quality of welded joints. In particular, it must be remembered that the nozzles are coated with Teflon, which prevents the formation of carbon deposits.
At the end of each operation, melted residues must be removed from them using a wooden spatula. It is strictly forbidden to remove any remaining material after the attachments have cooled, as this could damage the coating and cause a malfunction of the entire device.
Source: https://masterim.guru/sovety/kak-payat-plastikovye-truby/
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, several welding methods are used depending on their diameter, wall thickness and area of application:
- Stykova. The technique is used for joining large-diameter pipeline elements used in industrial and public utilities. The process occurs by simultaneous heating of pipe ends pre-cut at an angle of 90 degrees with a flat disk, after which their edges are forcefully pressed against each other on a special machine.
- Coupling. The technology is practically not used in welding polypropylene pipes (mainly with HDPE); the connection occurs using electric welded couplings, into which both ends of the pipe elements are inserted. When an electric current is passed, the inner casing heats up, becomes softer and loses its rigidity. As a result of this process, it is compressed under the pressure of the outer shell, forming a strong permanent joint between the connected elements (active hardening). After cooling, the active hardening effect remains, pressing the coupling tightly to the pipes.
- Bell method. The method, widely used in everyday life and in all areas of industry, consists of connecting the two ends of a polypropylene pipe using polypropylene fittings. For heating in everyday life and industry, special welding machines (irons) and heating nozzles are used, which simultaneously heat the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fitting, after which the elements are joined.
Rice. 2 Welding device - soldering iron
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
The thermal diffusion method used for welding polypropylene elements is realized by heating them with special devices, usually called soldering irons or irons. Structurally, the unit is a steel body with a built-in heating element, to which cylindrical heaters (nozzles) are screwed, the dimensions corresponding to the standard outer diameters of polypropylene pipes.
The temperature is set by a mechanical thermostat and two switches; in more modern devices, an electronic temperature indicator with processor-controlled heating is installed. The majority of irons have a flat shape; a less common variety has a round heating element, the nozzles on which are fixed with double-sided clamping screws.
In addition to the iron, the following tool is required for welded installation of a polypropylene line:
- Scissors. Designed for cutting polypropylene pipes, they are often supplied with a soldering device.
- Pencil and tape measure. The tool, as well as a corner and a knife, are used to accurately measure and control the location of the cut areas and remove the internal chamfer.
- Set of connecting fittings. Includes straight and angle couplings, tees, taps, threaded fittings and other fittings used to change the direction or connect plumbing fixtures to the main line.
- Household chemicals. Substances may be needed to degrease the welded surface and clean it from dirt.
Rice. 3 Tools for working with PPR
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
When deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, the following factors should be taken into account.
Working with polypropylene pipelines in narrow places is more difficult than welding on straight pipe runs in conditions of sufficient space. Inconvenient places usually include areas near the top of the ceiling, spots in corners, and tight space conditions that make it difficult to install the soldering iron on the stand. In the latter case, you cannot do without outside help; an alternative solution is a special hook, prepared in advance in a convenient place, on which you can hang a soldering iron.
If the soldered pipe sections are located too close to each other on the wall, a special technique is used - the direct and mating parts of the joint are heated in turn. In this case, the first section is heated a little longer than the allotted time, and then the pipe is heated for a shorter time and, if possible, at a higher temperature (the regulator is set to a larger diameter).
The situation when the soldered sections must be of a certain length, but when welding them in line with a soldering iron, one of the parts will have to be cut to the width of two nozzles and a heating iron, can be solved in another way.
A similar nozzle is purchased, fixed on the heating platform, and each of the segments is simultaneously soldered in different planes, after which they are connected.
Using this method, you can mount not only straight sections, but also turns on walls, thereby ensuring a tighter fit of the line to the curved surface.
Rice. 4 Welding pipeline sections with an iron with two nozzles
Source: https://montagtrub.ru/payka-polipropilenovyih-trub-v-trudnodostupnyih-mestah-sovetyi-rekomendatsii-spetsialista/
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
For soldering work you will need:
- roulette;
- scissors designed for cutting PVC pipes;
- soldering iron designed for polymer pipes;
- building level.
Most of these tools are well known to those who have ever participated in construction work.
Therefore, if you decide: we solder polypropylene pipes yourself, you probably already know the necessary tools well, or you can borrow them from your friends or colleagues.
If you don't have the tools yet, they can all be easily purchased at a hardware store. It can be difficult to find just the right scissors and soldering iron. As a rule, they are purchased as a set.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with and without a soldering iron?
Of course, this tool must be available if you are going to connect PVC pipes. Specialized scissors are also called roller pipe cutters.
The tool is available for sale in one of two modifications according to its intended purpose:
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-4 cm;
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-11 cm.
Soldering iron selection
A soldering iron suitable for cutting pipes is also called a manual welding machine. The tool is a heating device that has a sole equipped with heating elements.
As a rule, it is equipped with holes of different diameters in which soldering nozzles are fixed. The soldering iron is equipped with a temperature regulator.
It also has a heating indicator, a comfortable handle and a special stand. The latter allows you to install the device on a flat surface. The tool is turned on and off by pressing additional switches.
It is the soldering iron that helps answer the question of how to solder polypropylene pipes for heating or plumbing, and how to connect them.
And if you plan to install the pipeline yourself, you should get this device. Depending on the purpose, the tool intended for working with polypropylene pipes comes in two modifications:
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 1.6-5 cm with a maximum power of 650 W;
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 6.3-11 cm with a maximum power of 1600 W.
Any soldering iron is equipped with paired nozzles of different diameters and a stand.
If you don’t yet know how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, take a closer look at the soldering iron attachments.
As a rule, they allow you to perform complex work.
- Soldering iron tips are coated with a non-stick coating, similar to the coating used in cookware.
- Therefore, the instrument requires special care and cleaning.
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Before starting soldering work, you should carefully study the technology, the necessary instructions, and learn how to use a soldering iron in order to reduce the risks of irreparable errors.
When soldering pipes, you must remember that this is part of the soldering of the pipeline, so work should begin with its most difficult step - marking.
It is the markings that will tell you how to solder polypropylene pipes smoothly. It is good when the marking is carried out by a specialist who is familiar with the drawings of the pipeline system and represents the implementation of the drawings.
Pipe cutting
Before cutting the pipes, measure the interval between the fittings and add 3 cm to the resulting distance. After this, carefully cut the pipe at a right angle with special scissors.
Fittings are put on the pipe, marking the depth on it with a marker, thereby applying a transverse mark to the product. And the longitudinal one will make it possible to join pipeline elements along the axes.
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
First, turn on the soldering iron and insert a nozzle of the required diameter into its hole. Using a thermostat, you need to set the optimal soldering temperature.
At what temperature should polypropylene pipes be soldered?
Recommended value:
- 260°С – for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C – for polyethylene.
The soldering iron is heated up for 10-20 minutes. You can know when it is ready for use by the heating indicator.
Next, the pipeline element that needs to be heated is put on the soldering iron nozzle at a moderate pace. It is heated for the time required by the technology and quickly removed from the nozzle, holding the soldering iron, if necessary.
- How long does it take to solder polypropylene pipes? As a rule, a polypropylene pipe cools down in 8-10 seconds, which means you need to work quite quickly. Using the nozzle, you can heat two elements at a time - parallel along the outer and inner surfaces.
The heated element is placed on the pipe, aligning the transverse and longitudinal marks. After this, the quality of the connections is verified. It is important that the solder seam is smooth in appearance.
For a high-quality connection, it is better to solder the pipes within the time specified in the technological tables.
Protective gloves should be used during work. Working with polypropylene pipes must be done carefully and patiently.
Soldering pipes is a simple process, but very responsible. If you want to better understand how to solder reinforced polypropylene pipes, the video on this page will help you understand the soldering technology.
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes with an aluminum layer? How to connect them? Is it possible to solder polypropylene pipes from different manufacturers?
In cases where such questions arise, special adapters must be used when soldering.
One side of them is attached to metal or metal-plastic by means of a thread, the other is soldered to plastic using standard technology.
The only difference in the work is that threads must be cut on the metal and the connection must be sealed manually to avoid leaks. It is best to use tow or sanitary flax fiber as a sealant. This material is affordable and effectively seals the joint.
Using the same technology, adapters are installed, on the basis of which mixers are connected. The products externally look as if metal threads were fused into polypropylene.
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
In general, the device is correctly called a “welding machine.” The process of joining polypropylene takes place without the use of solder, which means it is welding and not soldering. We will use both terms.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Install nozzles of the required diameter onto the soldering iron platform and secure them with a screw using a wrench. If you are working with pipes of several sizes, use an additional pair of sleeves.
Set the heating temperature to 260 °C and turn on the device. It will take 10–20 minutes to heat up. An LED indicator will indicate that it is ready for use. You need to wait about 5 more minutes before welding the first joint.
When polypropylene is heated, harmful fumes and smoke are released, which should not be inhaled. Therefore, ventilate the room while working.
4. Make markings
While the soldering iron is heating up, prepare the pipe and fittings. For high-quality welding, they must fit into each other strictly to a certain depth. Insufficient immersion will lead to a poor connection, and excessive immersion will reduce or completely block the flow area with extruded plastic. Here are the values recommended by most manufacturers for the most common sizes:
As you can see, the soldering depth depends on the diameter of the pipes and fittings.
‑channel FV Miano
To avoid mistakes, measure the required length of the pipe, taking into account the allowance for the joint, and mark it with a pencil. Then, at the required distance from this mark, draw another line - it will serve as a guide during welding.
termpro.ru
For example, we need to connect an angle and a tee in a heating system. The distance between them is 270 mm. For fittings with a diameter of 25 mm, the soldering depth is 18 mm, which means we add another 36 mm to 270 (18 on each side). The result is 306 mm - this is exactly the piece of pipe that needs to be cut off.
5. Cut the pipe
To cut polypropylene, special scissors are used, which are also called pipe cutters. They make it easy to cut off a thick-walled pipe and get smooth edges without burrs.
‑channel “Sergey Efimov”
Place the scissors exactly perpendicular to the pipe and align the blade with the first mark. Holding the pipe with one hand, press the handles of the scissors with the other until the part is completely cut.
It is important to get an even end so that the pipe fits evenly into the fitting and is soldered equally over the entire diameter. If you cut it at an angle, the protruding part will go in too deep and the molten polypropylene will squeeze out, reducing the inner diameter of the fitting.
If the edge turns out to be uneven and the margin allows, it is better to cut it again. If the length is close, trim the end, removing all excess with a sharp knife.
6. Degrease parts
According to the instructions of all manufacturers, the parts to be welded must be degreased for a quality connection. And although many craftsmen neglect this and limit themselves to only wiping the pipes with a rag, we recommend sticking to the technology.
‑channel "KaUT Company"
Clean the pipes of any contamination. Drain off any remaining water and wipe thoroughly with a napkin or toilet paper. Clean the surfaces of fittings and pipes with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
The same alcohol can easily erase all the inscriptions on the pipes and give them a more aesthetic appearance.
7. Heat the pipe and fitting
There is a risk of serious burns when working with a hot soldering iron, so be sure to wear protective gloves. Parts of different sizes need to be heated for a certain time. The larger the diameter, the longer.
For a reliable connection, it is important not to overheat the polypropylene, otherwise the material will become fluid, melt and block the fitting from the inside.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Insert the fitting first into the corresponding soldering iron sleeves, then the pipe. When pushing parts, do not rotate them around their axis or tilt them. Insert the pipe to the previously marked depth until the molten polypropylene reaches the pencil line. Only then count down the allotted time.
All specified data is valid for work at an ambient temperature of about 20 ° C. If the room is colder than 5 °C, the heating time approximately doubles.
8. Weld the joint
Without turning or tilting, quickly remove first the pipe and then the fitting from the nozzles and connect both parts in the desired position relative to each other. Don't fuss, but don't hesitate either - you have 4-6 seconds left.
‑channel FV Miano
Hold the pipe and fitting motionless for about 5 seconds to ensure the joint locks into place. At this moment, it is allowed to rotate the connection no more than 10 degrees to correct its position.
The complete cooling time, after which the welding site can be loaded, ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
Remains of polypropylene from the nozzle can be easily removed with a paper napkin while the soldering iron is hot. If you clean already cooled cartridges, there is a risk of damaging the Teflon coating.
9. Check the connection
‑channel FV Miano
The quality of welding can be determined by a small, uniform bead at the end of the fitting. If it is not there, then perhaps the joint is underheated and the tightness will be in question. If the influx is too large, the pipe is most likely overheated and it melts inside, partially or completely blocking the flow area.
For those who are dealing with polypropylene welding for the first time, it would be a good idea to first practice and weld a few practice joints. It's better to learn on straight couplings. Unlike corners and other fittings of complex shapes, they can be easily inspected after soldering, not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/kak-payat-polipropilenovye-truby/
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, you can use one of three methods . Namely:
- using diffuse soldering (using a special device - “iron”);
- soldering using electrical fittings;
- use of cold soldering.
The most common method is diffuse soldering. In this case, various additional fittings and an electric heating device (soldering iron or “iron”) are used. This method will be discussed in more detail below.
When connecting using electrical fittings, special connecting elements are used. They are put on the ends of pipes . After this, electrical voltage is applied to special metal inserts in the fitting. As a result of heating the metal, polypropylene melts, and after cooling, a strong connection is created.
This method is rarely used, only in cases where soldering using a “soldering iron” is impossible. Large construction companies also use this method of creating communications from polypropylene pipes when performing large volumes of work. The fact is that the electrical fittings themselves are quite expensive, so using them at home is unprofitable.
Another method to connect polypropylene pipes is to use cold welding . Special glue is applied to the desired area. With its composition, the adhesive mass slightly softens the polypropylene. The result is a strong and reliable connection. You can learn more about this method by watching a video from the Internet.
But this method also has its drawbacks. Firstly, cold soldering can only be used when installing communications for supplying cold liquids (cold water supply).
When heated, the connection may lose its tightness. Secondly, the pipes must be firmly secured.
If you use cold welding in areas where pipeline movement is possible, the connection (over time) will leak.
Features of diffuse soldering
Features of diffuse soldering
To perform soldering of two polypropylene pipes, you must first prepare the necessary tools and materials. For work you will need:
- electric heating device or “soldering iron”. It can be purchased at any hardware store. But, most often, equipment is rented. Any communications made from polypropylene pipes last for many decades. Therefore, there is no point in buying rather expensive equipment for one-time use. You also need to prepare nozzles for the “soldering iron” of the required diameter. As a rule, they come with the device;
- device for cutting polypropylene pipes. This could be a special roller cutter, pipe shears or a hacksaw;
- to remove burrs on the ends of pipes after cutting them, prepare a file or a sharp knife;
- measuring tools (tape measure, ruler, marker or chalk);
- rags and liquid for degreasing polypropylene surfaces (alcohol or acetone);
- the pipes themselves and additional fittings (fittings).
Also, before soldering, you should familiarize yourself with the table , which indicates the time frame for all work. It takes a certain amount of time to heat polypropylene pipes of a certain diameter to the desired state. It also takes time for the polypropylene to lock into the joint and cool completely.
small diameter pipes are used to install a plumbing or heating system . In this case it is necessary:
- with an outer diameter of 16 mm, the heating time is 5 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the complete cooling time is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 20 mm, the heating time is 6 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 25 mm, the heating time is 7 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 3 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 32 mm, the heating time is 8 seconds, the fixing time is 6 seconds, the complete cooling time is 4 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 40 mm, heating time is 12 seconds, fixing time is 6 seconds, complete cooling time is 4 minutes.
Having prepared all the tools and materials, as well as knowing the required time parameters, you can begin soldering work. How to do this correctly is described in the next chapter.
Stages of work execution
Stages of work execution
Soldering of polypropylene pipes is carried out in several stages . Namely:
- First, marking and cutting of a piece of pipe is done. After this, using a knife or file, all burrs are cut off from the cut end. If the outer diameter of the pipe is more than 40 mm, then it is necessary to cut the ends at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Now you need to “dry” check the connection . To do this, the prepared end of the pipe is inserted into the additional fittings (fitting). Check to see if there are any distortions or defects in the fitting itself. If any are found, it is better to make a replacement. After this, the end of the pipe is degreased, and the depth of the entrance to the fitting is marked on it. In this case, you need to leave a gap of 1 mm. It is necessary to avoid reducing the internal diameter of the pipe when extruding the end edge during soldering. Since pipes with a reinforcing layer are used to create a heating system, it is removed before further work (in the area that will be included in the fitting). To do this, you can use a knife or a special sewing machine.
- Now you need to select a nozzle for the electric heating device of the required diameter. It's worth practicing a little to fit the pipe onto the nozzle. It is better to conduct training on a cold tool, because during soldering this will need to be done quickly but carefully.
- The next step will be preparing the “soldering iron” for work. The selected attachments are put on it, and the equipment itself is installed on a flat, stable and durable base. It is better to place the “soldering iron” in a place so that it does not interfere with the marking and installation work itself. After this, connect the device to the power supply. A lit indicator will indicate that the soldering iron is ready for use. On some models, it is necessary to pre-set the heating temperature (in order to solder polyethylene pipes, 260 degrees will be enough).
- After heating the “soldering iron”, the connection parts are put . In this case, you must first put a fitting (additional fittings) on the nozzle and then insert the end of the pipe into the other one. It is necessary to remove (after waiting the required period of time) in the reverse order.
- After removing the connection elements from the heating device, they are inserted into each other, up to the pre-marked mark. In this case, axial rotations cannot be made.
- Now wait some time for the polypropylene to set. Further work can be continued after the joint has completely hardened.
At this point, the work on soldering polypropylene pipes is completed.
Conclusion
Conclusion
To install the heating system, polypropylene pipes with a reinforcing layer . To connect them, you can use diffuse soldering, cold welding or electrical fittings.
But it is the first option that is used most often in everyday life. By purchasing or renting an electric heating device (“soldering iron”), all the work can be done with your own hands and in a short time.
And you can get acquainted with all the subtleties by watching a video from the Internet.
Source: https://profpipe.ru/drugoe/kak-pravilno-payat-polipropilenovye-truby-dlya-sozdaniya-prochnyh-soedinenij.html
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Let's understand the types
Metal-plastic Polyethylene
Such communications are divided into subtypes:
- Polyethylene - used for laying wiring inside buildings and external routes. They can be used on high-pressure pipe connections and at low ambient temperatures.
- PVC is used to reduce the cost of repairs.
- Metal-plastic ones are the most practical products, with a useful life of more than 50 years. Ideal option for replacing hot water supply.
The widespread use of this material is due to a number of reasons. Positive properties of such structures, in contrast to metal ones:
- Long service life.
- Low corrosivity.
- Easy to install.
- Does not require special skills.
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Economical and easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to the harmful effects of microorganisms.
Your water supply
Your water supply
Coupling assembly Soldering
Polyethylene models are mounted using the welded method or using couplings/fittings (coupling assembly). How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
For new water supply networks, products made of PVC and polyethylene without reinforcement or reinforcement are suitable. Preparation requires creating a diagram of the future water supply indicating the lengths of the branches, its position and all the fittings necessary for installing the structure. Correct calculation of the lengths and number of bends will simplify the technology, increase the speed of task completion and prevent rework.
Soldering iron Pipe cutter
To solder polyethylene connections you will need:
- Soldering iron.
- Pipe cutter
- A trimmer for cutting pipes and trimming the edges of cut ends.
- Fine sandpaper for cleaning edges
- Connecting coupling (if coupling assembly)
The heating device is a special device with a sole with special nozzles of various diameters attached to it. There are devices that include two or more attachments at the same time.
The stages of technology for laying hydraulic communications will tell you how to learn to solder:
- We measure the required length with a tape measure.
- Use a pipe cutter to cut the measured length.
- Trim the cut ends. This is an important step in soldering. The cuts must be smoothly sanded and cleaned. To be more sure, you can additionally degrease it with an alcohol solution.
- We solder the ends. If a coupling connection is used when installing life support networks, then we install a coupling/fitting at one end of the structure and heat it together with the future return in a soldering iron nozzle of the required diameter. After warming up, immediately connect the ends and wait for the assembly to cool completely. The quality of welding is indicated by the presence of a shoulder.
Attention! When installing heat and water supply using a soldered seam, it is strictly forbidden for water or moisture to fall into the cavity or onto the surface. When heated, water, turning into steam, deforms the plastic structure, as a result of which it loses its strength.
What to pay attention to
What to pay attention to
Temperature conditions for soldering are described in the instructions for the tool. Modern products have an automatic heating mode depending on the size of the installed network and the welding depth. On previous brands, the heating strength was selected manually.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered? When soldering polyethylene risers, we set the temperature regulator at around 220 ° C, for polypropylene risers - 260 ° C. There is an indicator on the heating mechanism that shows the device is ready for use. The indicator lights up only in heating mode.
The duration of soldering depends on the circumferential radius of the pipeline, and can range from 5 to 40 seconds. The ends should not be overheated. This can cause a blockage to form at the adhesion site.
If you need to install a water supply of the same size, you should not overpay for the number of nozzles and the presence of a temperature mechanism.
If you plan a large volume of long-term production using networks of various sizes around the circumference, then we purchase a universal device for connection with the latest technical capabilities and characteristics.
Soldering nuances
Soldering nuances
Knowing the technology for connecting autonomous communications is not enough. For high-quality installation, you need to know a number of features of laying and soldering housing branches. How to solder plastic pipes correctly? To ensure professional assembly of technological buildings, it is necessary to remember some connection nuances:
- A warm-up time is provided for soldering assembly. This time ranges from 5 to 20 minutes.
- The production of in-house life support should be carried out at temperatures above zero.
- After soldering the ends, it is necessary to prevent them from scrolling or moving; it is enough to smoothly eliminate distortions. You need to let them cool. Turning the weld seam may cause a leak in the future. It takes the same amount of time to cool down as it does to solder it.
- The required power of the soldering tool is 1200 W.
- Home soldering irons are designed for soldering wires with a diameter of up to 32 cm. If you need to assemble products of large diameter, then we purchase a professional soldering device.
- There should be no gaps between the edge of the pipeline and the internal thread of the fitting. Gaps can leak under high water pressure. Excessive force when compressing elements can lead to a decrease in the clearance in the cavity and impair the performance of the entire structure.
- Residues of material from the nozzles should be removed after each pack produced. Since the nozzles have a special coating, carbon deposits should be removed with a wooden device so as not to damage the integrity of the surface. Scratches on the surface of the nozzle will worsen the technological characteristics of the device and render it unusable for further use.
Thinking about how to make heating?
Thinking about how to make heating?
Installation of heat supply has a number of difficulties. Heating models can be installed in rooms with low temperatures, which complicates the soldering process. For heat supply, systems are developed depending on the temperature of the water supplied to the system and the operating pressure. The use of plastic in construction has increased productivity and reduced costs for the necessary material.
Heating pipes are reinforced with fiberglass, which makes this material strong and durable.
Health protection and working conditions
Health protection and working conditions
When carrying out work related to heating heating main joints, we follow safety rules to prevent injuries and burns:
- We solder using special protective gloves.
- We monitor the cleanliness of the floor in the room. Dirt will negatively affect the quality of welding and the appearance of the entire structure.
- The soldering iron is installed on a flat horizontal surface.
- It is necessary to start working after the device has completely warmed up and after the readiness indicator has turned off.
- We do not turn off the electrical outlet during the entire installation.
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands is not difficult. The soldering process does not require professional skills or experience. Anyone can install life support networks in their own home.
The mandatory composition of the required tool includes only a soldering device. The remaining auxiliary tools can be replaced with improvised means, a pipe cutter - with a sharp knife.
A pipeline made of polyethylene structures and PVC is a reliable, durable and environmentally friendly system for supplying water and heating.
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
Source: https://VashPlastik.ru/santehnika/kak-pajat-plastikovye-truby
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
Types of pipes connected by soldering
A soldering iron for working with polymer material is designed for joining water pipes, which differ in production technology and type of material:
- made of polypropylene - they tolerate high temperatures well, thanks to this property they can be used when installing a heating system;
- PVC: when exposed to strong heat, they partially lose their properties;
- plastic with reinforcement - due to the reinforcing layer, strength and resistance to heat increase, such communications are less susceptible to expansion upon contact with a heat source;
- heat-resistant polyethylene - tolerate long-term contact with coolant;
- polybutylene - superior in properties to analogues from other materials: they are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, elastic, and can be used in pressure heating systems;
- sections of the copper pipeline are connected with a soldering iron or gas torch.
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
When you plan to repair or replace water supply networks, you will need a device for working with plastic.
Additionally, auxiliary tools are prepared:
- building level;
- pipe cutter or slicing scissors;
- a set of nozzles (included in the set of the welding machine for polymers);
- roulette;
- a shaver that allows you to remove the reinforcement of communications;
- chamfer;
- deburring tool;
- solder;
- flux.
Soldering iron for soldering plastic pipes.
Elements of the smallest diameter in everyday life are connected using the butt method much less often. Preference is given to fittings.
Solder for soldering
Solder for soldering
This is a consumable material used to connect copper sections of the pipeline. It is made in the form of wire, rods. Foil solder is also available. The materials of this group differ in composition. They can be produced on the basis of tin, zinc, lead, antimony, and silver. The quality of the seam joint depends on what metals are included in the composition. In addition, solder is divided into types based on exposure to high temperatures: low-melting, medium- and high-melting.
Fluxes and fittings
Fluxes and fittings
Fittings for plastic pipes for soldering.
Flux is necessary for welding metal parts. If you plan to use a machine for soldering plastic elements, this material is not used. Flux helps protect metal surfaces during the oxidation process. Another property of such materials is improved solder fluidity. Flux is available in different variants, differing in composition. Necessary materials for working with copper: zinc chloride, boric and hydrochloric acids.
Fittings are the connecting elements for pipelines: tees, couplings, crosses, etc. Their internal size must be equal to the outer diameter of the elements. This creates a reliable connection. However, if a PVC pipeline or other types of polymer structures are welded, then the seam connection using fittings in this case will be permanent.
Cutting scissors
Cutting scissors
The purpose of the tool is to make cuts on polymer products. If you use a pipe cutter, the edge of the communications will be more neat, and burrs will not appear. This makes further work easier.
This tool comes in different types, including:
- auto;
- guillotine cutter;
- roller shears;
- pipe cutter with ratchet mechanism (suitable for working with communications up to 75 mm in diameter).
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
When you plan to weld plastic pipes with your own hands, you need to prepare the tool in advance, since polymer products cool quickly when heated. The main criteria for choosing a soldering iron for working with elastic communications:
- type of heating element: cylindrical, flat;
- the number of nozzles in the set, their outer diameter, which will allow you to work only with pipes of a given size;
- power – determines the heating capacity of the soldering iron; when doing the work yourself, a value of up to 1.2 kW is acceptable; when choosing a tool, the size of the connected communications is taken into account;
- the type of coating of the nozzles, it is important that the polymer material does not stick to them during soldering;
- type of temperature controller - affects the error in determining the temperature of the material.
The essence of the process and soldering methods
The essence of the process and soldering methods
This technology is based on the principle of changing the structure of the material for joining individual sections of the pipeline. This ensures a connection with a high degree of strength.
Different ways to connect polymer pipes:
- electric welding installation technique – based on the use of special fittings equipped with conductive elements;
- soldering by heating parts: involves the need to change the temperature of the end sections and further compress them;
- cold welding of PVC pipes: chemicals are used that can change the structure of the plastic; after joining the pipeline sections, a permanent, strong seam is obtained, but in terms of reliability, such a connection is inferior to welding, and the elements of the system do not heat up.
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
During the installation of communications, it is important to avoid mistakes. If the installation technology is violated, the quality of the seam joint is significantly reduced, which leads to a reduction in the service life of the pipeline. The risk of leakage increases.
Security measures
Security measures
Gloves must be used for work. Do not touch the heating element after turning on the device, as it tends to heat up to +300°C.
The room where welding work is performed must be ventilated. If there is a water source nearby, it is important to secure the work area. Do not allow liquid to get on the soldering iron during the welding process.
It is necessary to make sure that the welding machine is in working condition - the integrity of the wire is not compromised.
Preparation of elements and parts
Preparation of elements and parts
It is not recommended to connect raw communications. First, the material is cut in accordance with the design of the water supply system. Even if a pipe cutter is used, the burrs still need to be removed, since they are formed, although in smaller quantities. To make communications easier to connect to fittings, chamfers are made at the end sections (angle up to 45°). A special tool is used for this. Before starting welding work, the pipes are degreased.
Before soldering, the pipe is degreased.
Preparing the soldering iron
Preparing the soldering iron
It is not difficult to operate the machine for welding polymer communications. It is installed on a stand and then connected to the network. At the same time, the required heating temperature is set (if there is such a function), which is implemented via a thermostat. After this, you just have to wait until the thermogulator warms up enough (use an electric thermometer). The duration of this period depends on the power of the unit and the heating rate. You often have to wait up to 30 minutes.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
The temperature regime varies depending on the type of communication material. Most often, polypropylene pipes are used; the temperature for them is set at +260°C (upper limit).
They work with polyethylene products under less aggressive conditions: temperature not higher than +220°C. In the absence of a thermostat, the main criterion is the heating time. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the longer it takes to warm up.
The heating time varies from 6 to 20 seconds (for communications with a diameter of 20-63 mm).
Docking rules
Docking rules
The main requirement when installing polymer communications is compliance with the axis of the pipeline. They are flexible and become plastic when heated. This increases the risk of incorrect pipe installation. To avoid the formation of sagging inside the communications at the joint area, leave a gap of up to 3 mm between the edges.
Sequence of soldering plastic pipes.
Pipe connection
Pipe connection
After waiting a sufficient amount of time, the pipe and fitting are removed from the nozzles. It is important to immediately connect them, installing them in the correct position relative to the axis of the pipeline. Complete hardening of the polymer material occurs in 2-3 minutes. However, closer to the end of this period of time, it is no longer possible to adjust the position of the pipe and fitting relative to each other. This will lead to the destruction of the formed molecular bonds. As a result, the quality of the connection will decrease.
Cleaning and cooling connections
Cleaning and cooling connections
Connecting the pipeline to the fitting.
After connecting to the fitting, the pipeline section is left in a stationary position. Wait until the temperature of the material decreases to +40°C (a change of 1-2°C is allowed). After this, it is necessary to partially remove the sagging. Under such conditions, the polymer material manages to gain strength, but still retains sufficient ductility. This makes it easy to remove beads without deforming the seam joint.
The pipeline section must not be subjected to artificial cooling. It needs to cool in the open air. It is prohibited to use special means (blowing, low temperature sources or cold water) for this.
Checking the connection quality
Checking the connection quality
The appearance of the pipe section is assessed. So, there should be no cracks in the seam. The material here should be uniform, without leaks, and the structure should not be porous. A connection without defects and with an influx of 2-4 mm is considered to be of high quality. If the pipe wall thickness is less than 10 mm, then leave a bead on the seam up to 2 mm high. When larger communications are welded, the overlap must be at least 4 mm.
Common mistakes
Common mistakes
Inadmissible actions that can lead to a decrease in the quality of the seam joint:
- violation of the temperature regime when heating pipes: insufficient thermal effect or, conversely, overheating;
- complete removal of beads or cutting off excess material from the seam before it cools;
- applying excessive force when connecting pipes, which will lead to deterioration in the quality of the joint;
- if welding is carried out without preliminary treatment of communications, the seam will not last long, because dust and dirt remain on the pipes, which reduces the adhesion of materials.
Expert advice
Expert advice
If you do not have enough experience in performing welding work, you can study the recommendations of the masters.
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
When work is carried out in areas where it is difficult to reach, it is permissible to heat the pipeline elements sequentially. First, you need to install a flange on the soldering iron nozzle, then a section of pipe. To prevent the first element from cooling down, it should be heated more strongly. To transition from difficult sections to the main pipeline line, angle fittings are used.
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
If there is no welding machine, consider other methods:
- Cold soldering. In this case, it is assumed that a special adhesive composition must be applied to the inner walls of the pipe and the outer surface of the fitting. The material can be pre-treated with sandpaper, then the pipeline elements are degreased and connected.
- Application of a compression fitting: a connecting element is used, which is fixed with a nut.
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
If there is a need to install larger communications, use the butt connection method. In this case, fittings are not used. A minimum gap is left between the pipes; they are fixed with special equipment. After alignment is completed, proceed to soldering.
Source: https://VodaSovet.ru/vodoprovod/pajka-plastikovyh-trub-instrumenty
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Welders
Before you begin, you need to prepare the installation tool. To create a reliable joint between the structures and all additional parts, you will need a special soldering iron.
It is worth noting that sometimes the connection of products made of polypropylene is called welding. However, this process has many varieties, so it is important to remember that polypropylene pipes are connected in only one way - soldering. For the installation of such a system, threaded fittings and metal-plastic are not used.
Soldering polypropylene pipes requires the use of welding machines. There are several types of devices on sale:
- heater with a round cross-section;
- flat unit.
The second type of soldering machine is popularly called an iron, which is largely due to its appearance. Such devices differ only in their design.
For the first model, Teflon nozzles are put on the heater and fixed with parts similar to clamps. In the second device, the same nozzles are screwed to the heater on both sides. The rest of the design elements are no different. The main function of the device is to perform high-quality and reliable soldering of polypropylene products.
The set of soldering devices must include nozzles. The most inexpensive device, the set of which includes a minimum number of elements, is considered to be a Chinese soldering iron. Its power does not exceed 800 W. It is presented for sale together with a stand, as well as attachments that allow soldering of PP pipes with a cross-section of 20-32 mm.
When the heating system of a private house is made of cylindrical products of this diameter, this kit will be quite sufficient. But if more professional work involving soldering is expected, you will need a better device.
For pipes with a cross-section of 40-63 mm, a different soldering kit is required. It will have to be purchased separately. The most expensive sets, characterized by increased reliability, are manufactured in large European countries. Their kit includes the following parts:
- soldering iron;
- stand;
- Teflon nozzles of different diameters;
- scissors that allow you to cut pipes at 90 degrees;
- hexagon;
- Phillips screwdriver;
- roulette;
- gloves.
Since you have to work with hot equipment to solder polypropylene pipes, you must wear gloves when performing the operation. Beginners often get burned when touching the heating element.
The design of any soldering iron is designed so that it is possible to install several nozzles at once for connecting small-diameter pipes, which saves time, especially when working with products with a cross-section of 20-40 mm.
Soldering machine power
Soldering machine power
To evenly and quickly heat a pipe with a diameter of 63 mm, greater system power is required. For domestic purposes, a device with a value that determines the amount of energy not exceeding 0.7-1 kW will be sufficient.
If the power of the iron is more than 1 kW, it becomes professional. Its cost is much higher than the price of an ordinary soldering iron.
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
It is not recommended for a beginner to purchase such a device. It can be made from iron and appropriate materials, saving a significant amount.
Method one
Method one
To make a homemade soldering iron you will need:
- a broken old iron that still has a heating element;
- children's metal construction set;
- rubber handle;
- toggle switch;
- asbestos cord;
- duralumin;
- insulating tape.
Manufacturing technology
Manufacturing technology
- use a grinder to cut off all unnecessary parts from the bottom of the iron;
- an aluminum cover is made;
- a box is assembled from the construction kit; a light bulb and a rubber handle are installed in it;
- a toggle switch and a soldering iron regulator are connected to the wire;
- all parts are combined into one whole;
- cables are soldered;
- The heating element is bolted to the body, having previously placed an asbestos gasket.
Thus, after spending a little time using available material, you become the owner of a homemade soldering iron for welding PP pipes.
Source: https://VseProTruby.ru/pajka/svarka-pp-trub.html
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Polypropylene pipelines are suitable for hot and cold water supply and heating. Products with a reinforced layer of foil, fiberglass or aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 95 0 C, pressure 20-25 atm. They are used for internal water supply and heating, in the supply system from the main line.
The products have the following advantages:
- long service life;
- withstand high physical activity;
- are not destroyed by moisture or aggressive liquids;
- lightweight, making them easier to install;
- low thermal conductivity does not reduce the temperature of the coolant;
- do not impair the taste and chemical composition of the liquid;
- have low cost.
These characteristics of polypropylene pipelines make it popular in modern construction and when repairing water supply systems in residential buildings.
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
The concept of “plastic pipes” combines a number of products that differ in use and chemical composition. The following types are distinguished:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Recommended for cold water supply. Lightweight, durable. Used for open laying.
- Polypropylene (PP). They can withstand high temperatures and pressure, and are intended for the transport of hot liquids and in heating systems. Connections of individual elements are made by soldering propylene pipes.
- Polyethylene (PE). Flexible, elastic, when heated they become soft. There are high pressure (HPV) and low pressure (LHP). Used for cold water.
- Made from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). They bend easily, withstand mechanical loads, high and low temperatures. Designed for hot and cold water supply.
- Metal-plastic. Multilayer. Used for drinking water supply and heating.
Soldering of plastic is ensured by the thermoplasticity of the material. When heated, it becomes soft, like plasticine, and individual fragments are easily connected when pressed against each other. Cooling leads to the formation of a strong joint that does not allow liquid to pass through.
During the soldering process, polyfusion occurs—the mutual penetration of molecules. Since the seam is formed from the material of the product, its chemical formula is equal to the formula of the material and retains its physical properties. At the joint there is no boundary between the elements, which explains its strength.
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
There are several methods for carrying out such an operation as soldering plastic pipes. Let's look at each in more detail.
Butt soldering
Butt soldering
This is a connection of a product with the same internal and external diameters. The sequence is as follows:
- Adjusting the ends to ensure a tight fit; for this, use an edge trimmer.
- A flat heater is pressed against the end. Allow a certain amount of time to melt.
- Remove the heater and press the ends together, leave until cool. The process of polymerization and formation of a seam occurs.
To obtain a high-quality connection, special machine-type devices are used for butt welding. Such devices are chosen for work by professionals. At the household level, this method is practically not used for polypropylene compounds.
Sleeve soldering
Sleeve soldering
Coupling soldering of polypropylene pipes is most often used for laying them in an apartment or residential building. Two parts are used here - a coupling and a pipe. The inner diameter of the coupling must match the outer diameter of the pipe. A coupling can be a piece of pipe, a tee, an elbow, a faucet, or another fitting.
Soldering is carried out using a device, on one side of which there is a coupling, on the other - a mandrel. A pipe is inserted into the coupling of the apparatus, a coupling is put on the mandrel, with the help of which the connection is made. The ends are heated simultaneously. It is important not to exceed the heating time so that the entire wall does not melt.
After heating, both workpieces are simultaneously removed from the heater, the pipe is inserted into the coupling to the marked depth. Further cooling leads to the process of polymerization of the contacting surfaces and their soldering.
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering of polypropylene pipes using electrical fittings is carried out using a coupling apparatus equipped with an electric cable. The coupling fitting is put on the pipe and connected to the heater. It heats up to a temperature of 260 0 C, melts and they are soldered together. Next, the device is turned off and disconnected from the fitting. After the connection cools, a strong contact is formed.
Other soldering methods
Other soldering methods
One of the ways to connect polypropylene pipelines is the so-called cold welding. Performed using organic solvent glue. Its application to the surface of plastic causes the plastic to soften. The treated areas must be connected immediately, as the glue evaporates quickly. This method is used to connect PVC parts that are not very flexible when heated.
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
For home communications, plastic pipes with an outer diameter of 20-63 mm are used. For their soldering, small-sized devices are chosen. This is a soldering iron of simple design, often called an iron. The devices differ in the shape of the heating element; they are cylindrical and xiphoid. Attachments in the form of a mandrel and a sleeve are put on the xiphoid ones. They are designed for end soldering. The cylindrical heater uses a long, round, crimp-type nozzle.
In addition to the soldering machine, you will need the following tools:
- scissors for slicing;
- seamstress for trimming reinforced products;
- tape measure or ruler;
- marker;
- organic alcohol for degreasing;
- rags;
- gloves.
Having provided yourself with the necessary tools, you can get to work.
Choosing a soldering machine
Choosing a soldering machine
Before deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes, you need to choose a suitable device. The first thing you should pay attention to:
- Power. At home, pipes with a diameter of up to 50 mm are used. For their soldering, a device with a power of 0.7 kW is sufficient. If you plan to solder sections with a diameter of up to 75 mm, opt for a unit with 1 kW of power.
- Type of heating element - plate or cylinder. The first option is easier to work with and should be used by an inexperienced plumber.
- Number of nozzles and their sizes. Select several diameters, matching them to the sizes of the parts used.
- Manufacturer. They give preference to well-known manufacturers who have proven themselves with quality products.
The quality of welding machines is determined by the error in the heating temperature of the part. Czech instruments are considered the best, but they are the most expensive. Russian-made devices are cheaper. For an installer who uses them for his own purposes, this is the most profitable option. Chinese products will fulfill the warranty period, but no more.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
To connect pipes using soldering, the parts to be connected are heated and inserted into each other. After cooling, we obtain a single design. To know how to properly solder polypropylene pipes, you should read the instructions. The procedure is as follows:
- Cut the required pipe size.
- We mark the depth of its entry into the coupling.
- Turn on the soldering iron for polypropylene pipes and heat the nozzles.
- We put the parts on the nozzles. We maintain the heating time (we determine it according to table 1).
- Remove the parts from the heater, connect them, press, hold for 4-6 seconds.
- Checking the quality of the connection.
The heating time and temperature of polypropylene depend on the size of the pipes being welded; this is clarified according to Table 1.
Table 1
Pipe diameter, mm | Length of welded surface, mm | Heating period, sec | Welding period, sec | Cooling period, min |
16,0 | 13,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
20,0 | 14,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
25,0 | 16,0 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
32,0 | 20,0 | 8 | 4 | 4 |
40,0 | 21,0 | 12 | 6 | 4 |
50,0 | 22,5 | 18 | 6 | 5 |
63,0 | 24,0 | 24 | 6 | 6 |
As we can see from the table, all the main soldering parameters depend on the diameter. The heating or cooling time must be respected; deviation in any direction will lead to a poor-quality connection.
Before you start soldering, you need to prepare a soldering iron. Nozzles of the required diameter are put on it. The device is connected to the network and heated to 260 0 C. This is indicated by a sound signal or a flashing green light. Next, we follow the instructions, observing the required temperature and heating time.
When the pipeline is located in inconvenient places, individual elements are heated one at a time. The first one should have a higher temperature; while the second one is heating up, it will cool down a little. After this, both parts are quickly connected and held for 4-6 seconds. When turning, corner couplings are used to ensure a right joint angle.
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Before soldering reinforced polypropylene pipes, the reinforcement layer must be removed. The aluminum in the wall requires a long time of heating to melt, plus it increases the diameter, and it is not included in standard nozzles.
A seamstress is used for cleaning. This is a metal sleeve with built-in knives, which, when rotated, remove the reinforcement to plastic. If the aluminum layer is located inside the wall, use a trimmer.
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
The main mistakes are:
- underheating or overheating of polypropylene;
- violation of the alignment of joined parts;
- violation of the soldering process;
- wrong choice of material or size.
If polypropylene is heated for more than the prescribed time, an influx of plastic occurs inside the pipe, which reduces its throughput. If the temperature is insufficient, the polypropylene joint becomes fragile and will last a short time. If the axes of the joined workpieces do not coincide, the pipeline becomes distorted, which impairs its operation. When butt welding, the material of the joining surfaces must be the same, otherwise the strength of the seam is compromised.
Soldering polypropylene pipes is a difficult process, but doable. An important point is the choice of high-quality material, a convenient and reliable soldering iron. When carrying out work, you should follow safety precautions, have protective clothing and gloves, and be sure to ventilate the room.
Source: https://trubarik.ru/polipropilenovye/pajka-polipropilenovyh-trub
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Briefly about the welding machine
Before you start soldering, you should briefly become familiar with the device you are about to use.
An important element of the welding machine is the sole, equipped with heating elements. Convenience of work is ensured by the fact that there are holes on the base that allow you to attach special soldering attachments. The temperature is adjusted using a thermostat located on the body.
Pipe soldering process
Pipe soldering process
When starting soldering, the device must be installed in the desired position and nozzles of the appropriate size must be secured to it. Using the thermostat, set the required temperature:
- 260°C for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C for polyethylene pipes.
Allow the device to warm up for 10-20 minutes until the indicator goes out.
When performing soldering, you must proceed from the following data:
External pipe size, mm | 16 | 25 | 40 | 63 | 90 |
Interval to mark, mm | 13 | 15 | 18 | 24 | 29 |
Heating duration, sec | 5 | 7 | 12 | 24 | 40 |
Maximum duration of technological pause, sec | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
Cooling duration, min | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
The soldering process boils down to the following operations:
- Using special scissors, cut the pipe to the required length, using an alcohol solution, clean the joints from dirt and grease;
- Place the pipe and counter socket in the nozzle and heat for the time indicated in the table;
- Connect the heated elements together by inserting the pipe into the socket. This operation must be performed during the time called a technological pause in the table;
- After completing the operation, check the quality of the resulting welded joint, which will be noticeable in the form of plastic rings.
Recommendations for proper soldering
Recommendations for proper soldering
We have just outlined the essence of the soldering process. However, to ensure reliable operation of the pipeline, attention should be paid to the following details:
- The first welding operation should be performed five minutes after the soldering iron has warmed up.
- If it is necessary to weld reinforced pipes, you should use a special tool called a shaver to remove the aluminum and polypropylene, which form the two top layers, from the pipe. After this, the pipes are joined according to the method already described.
- Welding work should only be carried out when the ambient temperature is above zero.
- After welding, allow the connected pipes to cool, avoiding their rotation or mutual movement. In the case where the connecting seam turns out to be of poor quality, the assembly must be cut and the welding process must be repeated.
When working with a welding machine, it is necessary to observe certain precautions, failure to comply with which may affect the quality of welded joints. In particular, it must be remembered that the nozzles are coated with Teflon, which prevents the formation of carbon deposits.
At the end of each operation, melted residues must be removed from them using a wooden spatula. It is strictly forbidden to remove any remaining material after the attachments have cooled, as this could damage the coating and cause a malfunction of the entire device.
Source: https://masterim.guru/sovety/kak-payat-plastikovye-truby/
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, several welding methods are used depending on their diameter, wall thickness and area of application:
- Stykova. The technique is used for joining large-diameter pipeline elements used in industrial and public utilities. The process occurs by simultaneous heating of pipe ends pre-cut at an angle of 90 degrees with a flat disk, after which their edges are forcefully pressed against each other on a special machine.
- Coupling. The technology is practically not used in welding polypropylene pipes (mainly with HDPE); the connection occurs using electric welded couplings, into which both ends of the pipe elements are inserted. When an electric current is passed, the inner casing heats up, becomes softer and loses its rigidity. As a result of this process, it is compressed under the pressure of the outer shell, forming a strong permanent joint between the connected elements (active hardening). After cooling, the active hardening effect remains, pressing the coupling tightly to the pipes.
- Bell method. The method, widely used in everyday life and in all areas of industry, consists of connecting the two ends of a polypropylene pipe using polypropylene fittings. For heating in everyday life and industry, special welding machines (irons) and heating nozzles are used, which simultaneously heat the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fitting, after which the elements are joined.
Rice. 2 Welding device - soldering iron
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
The thermal diffusion method used for welding polypropylene elements is realized by heating them with special devices, usually called soldering irons or irons. Structurally, the unit is a steel body with a built-in heating element, to which cylindrical heaters (nozzles) are screwed, the dimensions corresponding to the standard outer diameters of polypropylene pipes.
The temperature is set by a mechanical thermostat and two switches; in more modern devices, an electronic temperature indicator with processor-controlled heating is installed. The majority of irons have a flat shape; a less common variety has a round heating element, the nozzles on which are fixed with double-sided clamping screws.
In addition to the iron, the following tool is required for welded installation of a polypropylene line:
- Scissors. Designed for cutting polypropylene pipes, they are often supplied with a soldering device.
- Pencil and tape measure. The tool, as well as a corner and a knife, are used to accurately measure and control the location of the cut areas and remove the internal chamfer.
- Set of connecting fittings. Includes straight and angle couplings, tees, taps, threaded fittings and other fittings used to change the direction or connect plumbing fixtures to the main line.
- Household chemicals. Substances may be needed to degrease the welded surface and clean it from dirt.
Rice. 3 Tools for working with PPR
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
When deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, the following factors should be taken into account.
Working with polypropylene pipelines in narrow places is more difficult than welding on straight pipe runs in conditions of sufficient space. Inconvenient places usually include areas near the top of the ceiling, spots in corners, and tight space conditions that make it difficult to install the soldering iron on the stand. In the latter case, you cannot do without outside help; an alternative solution is a special hook, prepared in advance in a convenient place, on which you can hang a soldering iron.
If the soldered pipe sections are located too close to each other on the wall, a special technique is used - the direct and mating parts of the joint are heated in turn. In this case, the first section is heated a little longer than the allotted time, and then the pipe is heated for a shorter time and, if possible, at a higher temperature (the regulator is set to a larger diameter).
The situation when the soldered sections must be of a certain length, but when welding them in line with a soldering iron, one of the parts will have to be cut to the width of two nozzles and a heating iron, can be solved in another way.
A similar nozzle is purchased, fixed on the heating platform, and each of the segments is simultaneously soldered in different planes, after which they are connected.
Using this method, you can mount not only straight sections, but also turns on walls, thereby ensuring a tighter fit of the line to the curved surface.
Rice. 4 Welding pipeline sections with an iron with two nozzles
Source: https://montagtrub.ru/payka-polipropilenovyih-trub-v-trudnodostupnyih-mestah-sovetyi-rekomendatsii-spetsialista/
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
Required Tools
For soldering work you will need:
- roulette;
- scissors designed for cutting PVC pipes;
- soldering iron designed for polymer pipes;
- building level.
Most of these tools are well known to those who have ever participated in construction work.
Therefore, if you decide: we solder polypropylene pipes yourself, you probably already know the necessary tools well, or you can borrow them from your friends or colleagues.
If you don't have the tools yet, they can all be easily purchased at a hardware store. It can be difficult to find just the right scissors and soldering iron. As a rule, they are purchased as a set.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with and without a soldering iron?
Of course, this tool must be available if you are going to connect PVC pipes. Specialized scissors are also called roller pipe cutters.
The tool is available for sale in one of two modifications according to its intended purpose:
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-4 cm;
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-11 cm.
Soldering iron selection
Soldering iron selection
A soldering iron suitable for cutting pipes is also called a manual welding machine. The tool is a heating device that has a sole equipped with heating elements.
As a rule, it is equipped with holes of different diameters in which soldering nozzles are fixed. The soldering iron is equipped with a temperature regulator.
It also has a heating indicator, a comfortable handle and a special stand. The latter allows you to install the device on a flat surface. The tool is turned on and off by pressing additional switches.
It is the soldering iron that helps answer the question of how to solder polypropylene pipes for heating or plumbing, and how to connect them.
And if you plan to install the pipeline yourself, you should get this device. Depending on the purpose, the tool intended for working with polypropylene pipes comes in two modifications:
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 1.6-5 cm with a maximum power of 650 W;
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 6.3-11 cm with a maximum power of 1600 W.
Any soldering iron is equipped with paired nozzles of different diameters and a stand.
If you don’t yet know how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, take a closer look at the soldering iron attachments.
As a rule, they allow you to perform complex work.
- Soldering iron tips are coated with a non-stick coating, similar to the coating used in cookware.
- Therefore, the instrument requires special care and cleaning.
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Before starting soldering work, you should carefully study the technology, the necessary instructions, and learn how to use a soldering iron in order to reduce the risks of irreparable errors.
When soldering pipes, you must remember that this is part of the soldering of the pipeline, so work should begin with its most difficult step - marking.
It is the markings that will tell you how to solder polypropylene pipes smoothly. It is good when the marking is carried out by a specialist who is familiar with the drawings of the pipeline system and represents the implementation of the drawings.
Pipe cutting
Pipe cutting
Before cutting the pipes, measure the interval between the fittings and add 3 cm to the resulting distance. After this, carefully cut the pipe at a right angle with special scissors.
Fittings are put on the pipe, marking the depth on it with a marker, thereby applying a transverse mark to the product. And the longitudinal one will make it possible to join pipeline elements along the axes.
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
First, turn on the soldering iron and insert a nozzle of the required diameter into its hole. Using a thermostat, you need to set the optimal soldering temperature.
At what temperature should polypropylene pipes be soldered?
Recommended value:
- 260°С – for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C – for polyethylene.
The soldering iron is heated up for 10-20 minutes. You can know when it is ready for use by the heating indicator.
Next, the pipeline element that needs to be heated is put on the soldering iron nozzle at a moderate pace. It is heated for the time required by the technology and quickly removed from the nozzle, holding the soldering iron, if necessary.
- How long does it take to solder polypropylene pipes? As a rule, a polypropylene pipe cools down in 8-10 seconds, which means you need to work quite quickly. Using the nozzle, you can heat two elements at a time - parallel along the outer and inner surfaces.
The heated element is placed on the pipe, aligning the transverse and longitudinal marks. After this, the quality of the connections is verified. It is important that the solder seam is smooth in appearance.
For a high-quality connection, it is better to solder the pipes within the time specified in the technological tables.
Protective gloves should be used during work. Working with polypropylene pipes must be done carefully and patiently.
Soldering pipes is a simple process, but very responsible. If you want to better understand how to solder reinforced polypropylene pipes, the video on this page will help you understand the soldering technology.
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes with an aluminum layer? How to connect them? Is it possible to solder polypropylene pipes from different manufacturers?
In cases where such questions arise, special adapters must be used when soldering.
One side of them is attached to metal or metal-plastic by means of a thread, the other is soldered to plastic using standard technology.
The only difference in the work is that threads must be cut on the metal and the connection must be sealed manually to avoid leaks. It is best to use tow or sanitary flax fiber as a sealant. This material is affordable and effectively seals the joint.
Using the same technology, adapters are installed, on the basis of which mixers are connected. The products externally look as if metal threads were fused into polypropylene.
How to check the connection for leaks
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes
- Pipes;
- fitting;
- napkins;
- gloves;
- soldering iron;
- pipe cutters;
- roulette;
- pencil;
- level;
- isopropyl alcohol.
‑channel “Do-it-yourself repairs”
Connecting polypropylene pipes is quite simple, but - as with any other structure - before starting work, it is advisable to prepare an approximate installation diagram.
Sketch out a drawing on paper with the location of the insertion points, shut-off valves and other necessary parts. This way you can immediately estimate the length of the pipes, as well as determine the location, type and number of fittings needed.
Since both ends of the pipeline heat up during connection, for ease of installation it is important that one of them remains free. Some pipes with fittings can be assembled on a table and then installed in the desired location, making just one joint. All this will help to provide an assembly diagram.
3. Prepare your soldering iron
In general, the device is correctly called a “welding machine.” The process of joining polypropylene takes place without the use of solder, which means it is welding and not soldering. We will use both terms.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Install nozzles of the required diameter onto the soldering iron platform and secure them with a screw using a wrench. If you are working with pipes of several sizes, use an additional pair of sleeves.
Set the heating temperature to 260 °C and turn on the device. It will take 10–20 minutes to heat up. An LED indicator will indicate that it is ready for use. You need to wait about 5 more minutes before welding the first joint.
When polypropylene is heated, harmful fumes and smoke are released, which should not be inhaled. Therefore, ventilate the room while working.
4. Make markings
While the soldering iron is heating up, prepare the pipe and fittings. For high-quality welding, they must fit into each other strictly to a certain depth. Insufficient immersion will lead to a poor connection, and excessive immersion will reduce or completely block the flow area with extruded plastic. Here are the values recommended by most manufacturers for the most common sizes:
As you can see, the soldering depth depends on the diameter of the pipes and fittings.
‑channel FV Miano
To avoid mistakes, measure the required length of the pipe, taking into account the allowance for the joint, and mark it with a pencil. Then, at the required distance from this mark, draw another line - it will serve as a guide during welding.
termpro.ru
For example, we need to connect an angle and a tee in a heating system. The distance between them is 270 mm. For fittings with a diameter of 25 mm, the soldering depth is 18 mm, which means we add another 36 mm to 270 (18 on each side). The result is 306 mm - this is exactly the piece of pipe that needs to be cut off.
5. Cut the pipe
To cut polypropylene, special scissors are used, which are also called pipe cutters. They make it easy to cut off a thick-walled pipe and get smooth edges without burrs.
‑channel “Sergey Efimov”
Place the scissors exactly perpendicular to the pipe and align the blade with the first mark. Holding the pipe with one hand, press the handles of the scissors with the other until the part is completely cut.
It is important to get an even end so that the pipe fits evenly into the fitting and is soldered equally over the entire diameter. If you cut it at an angle, the protruding part will go in too deep and the molten polypropylene will squeeze out, reducing the inner diameter of the fitting.
If the edge turns out to be uneven and the margin allows, it is better to cut it again. If the length is close, trim the end, removing all excess with a sharp knife.
6. Degrease parts
According to the instructions of all manufacturers, the parts to be welded must be degreased for a quality connection. And although many craftsmen neglect this and limit themselves to only wiping the pipes with a rag, we recommend sticking to the technology.
‑channel "KaUT Company"
Clean the pipes of any contamination. Drain off any remaining water and wipe thoroughly with a napkin or toilet paper. Clean the surfaces of fittings and pipes with a cloth soaked in isopropyl alcohol.
The same alcohol can easily erase all the inscriptions on the pipes and give them a more aesthetic appearance.
7. Heat the pipe and fitting
There is a risk of serious burns when working with a hot soldering iron, so be sure to wear protective gloves. Parts of different sizes need to be heated for a certain time. The larger the diameter, the longer.
For a reliable connection, it is important not to overheat the polypropylene, otherwise the material will become fluid, melt and block the fitting from the inside.
‑channel “Twice Father Dmitry”
Insert the fitting first into the corresponding soldering iron sleeves, then the pipe. When pushing parts, do not rotate them around their axis or tilt them. Insert the pipe to the previously marked depth until the molten polypropylene reaches the pencil line. Only then count down the allotted time.
All specified data is valid for work at an ambient temperature of about 20 ° C. If the room is colder than 5 °C, the heating time approximately doubles.
8. Weld the joint
Without turning or tilting, quickly remove first the pipe and then the fitting from the nozzles and connect both parts in the desired position relative to each other. Don't fuss, but don't hesitate either - you have 4-6 seconds left.
‑channel FV Miano
Hold the pipe and fitting motionless for about 5 seconds to ensure the joint locks into place. At this moment, it is allowed to rotate the connection no more than 10 degrees to correct its position.
The complete cooling time, after which the welding site can be loaded, ranges from 2 to 4 minutes.
Remains of polypropylene from the nozzle can be easily removed with a paper napkin while the soldering iron is hot. If you clean already cooled cartridges, there is a risk of damaging the Teflon coating.
9. Check the connection
‑channel FV Miano
The quality of welding can be determined by a small, uniform bead at the end of the fitting. If it is not there, then perhaps the joint is underheated and the tightness will be in question. If the influx is too large, the pipe is most likely overheated and it melts inside, partially or completely blocking the flow area.
For those who are dealing with polypropylene welding for the first time, it would be a good idea to first practice and weld a few practice joints. It's better to learn on straight couplings. Unlike corners and other fittings of complex shapes, they can be easily inspected after soldering, not only from the outside, but also from the inside.
Source: https://Lifehacker.ru/kak-payat-polipropilenovye-truby/
How to properly solder polypropylene pipes to create strong connections - Prof Pipes
Today, polypropylene pipes are used to install the water supply system. These are easy to use, reliable and durable products. With their help, anyone can create a plumbing system of almost any configuration. The main thing is to know the connection rules. This article will discuss exactly this. Here we will talk about how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Methods for soldering polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, you can use one of three methods . Namely:
- using diffuse soldering (using a special device - “iron”);
- soldering using electrical fittings;
- use of cold soldering.
The most common method is diffuse soldering. In this case, various additional fittings and an electric heating device (soldering iron or “iron”) are used. This method will be discussed in more detail below.
When connecting using electrical fittings, special connecting elements are used. They are put on the ends of pipes . After this, electrical voltage is applied to special metal inserts in the fitting. As a result of heating the metal, polypropylene melts, and after cooling, a strong connection is created.
This method is rarely used, only in cases where soldering using a “soldering iron” is impossible. Large construction companies also use this method of creating communications from polypropylene pipes when performing large volumes of work. The fact is that the electrical fittings themselves are quite expensive, so using them at home is unprofitable.
Another method to connect polypropylene pipes is to use cold welding . Special glue is applied to the desired area. With its composition, the adhesive mass slightly softens the polypropylene. The result is a strong and reliable connection. You can learn more about this method by watching a video from the Internet.
But this method also has its drawbacks. Firstly, cold soldering can only be used when installing communications for supplying cold liquids (cold water supply).
When heated, the connection may lose its tightness. Secondly, the pipes must be firmly secured.
If you use cold welding in areas where pipeline movement is possible, the connection (over time) will leak.
Features of diffuse soldering
To perform soldering of two polypropylene pipes, you must first prepare the necessary tools and materials. For work you will need:
- electric heating device or “soldering iron”. It can be purchased at any hardware store. But, most often, equipment is rented. Any communications made from polypropylene pipes last for many decades. Therefore, there is no point in buying rather expensive equipment for one-time use. You also need to prepare nozzles for the “soldering iron” of the required diameter. As a rule, they come with the device;
- device for cutting polypropylene pipes. This could be a special roller cutter, pipe shears or a hacksaw;
- to remove burrs on the ends of pipes after cutting them, prepare a file or a sharp knife;
- measuring tools (tape measure, ruler, marker or chalk);
- rags and liquid for degreasing polypropylene surfaces (alcohol or acetone);
- the pipes themselves and additional fittings (fittings).
Also, before soldering, you should familiarize yourself with the table , which indicates the time frame for all work. It takes a certain amount of time to heat polypropylene pipes of a certain diameter to the desired state. It also takes time for the polypropylene to lock into the joint and cool completely.
small diameter pipes are used to install a plumbing or heating system . In this case it is necessary:
- with an outer diameter of 16 mm, the heating time is 5 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the complete cooling time is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 20 mm, the heating time is 6 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 2 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 25 mm, the heating time is 7 seconds, the fixing time is 4 seconds, the time for complete cooling is 3 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 32 mm, the heating time is 8 seconds, the fixing time is 6 seconds, the complete cooling time is 4 minutes;
- with an outer diameter of 40 mm, heating time is 12 seconds, fixing time is 6 seconds, complete cooling time is 4 minutes.
Having prepared all the tools and materials, as well as knowing the required time parameters, you can begin soldering work. How to do this correctly is described in the next chapter.
Stages of work execution
Soldering of polypropylene pipes is carried out in several stages . Namely:
- First, marking and cutting of a piece of pipe is done. After this, using a knife or file, all burrs are cut off from the cut end. If the outer diameter of the pipe is more than 40 mm, then it is necessary to cut the ends at an angle of 45 degrees.
- Now you need to “dry” check the connection . To do this, the prepared end of the pipe is inserted into the additional fittings (fitting). Check to see if there are any distortions or defects in the fitting itself. If any are found, it is better to make a replacement. After this, the end of the pipe is degreased, and the depth of the entrance to the fitting is marked on it. In this case, you need to leave a gap of 1 mm. It is necessary to avoid reducing the internal diameter of the pipe when extruding the end edge during soldering. Since pipes with a reinforcing layer are used to create a heating system, it is removed before further work (in the area that will be included in the fitting). To do this, you can use a knife or a special sewing machine.
- Now you need to select a nozzle for the electric heating device of the required diameter. It's worth practicing a little to fit the pipe onto the nozzle. It is better to conduct training on a cold tool, because during soldering this will need to be done quickly but carefully.
- The next step will be preparing the “soldering iron” for work. The selected attachments are put on it, and the equipment itself is installed on a flat, stable and durable base. It is better to place the “soldering iron” in a place so that it does not interfere with the marking and installation work itself. After this, connect the device to the power supply. A lit indicator will indicate that the soldering iron is ready for use. On some models, it is necessary to pre-set the heating temperature (in order to solder polyethylene pipes, 260 degrees will be enough).
- After heating the “soldering iron”, the connection parts are put . In this case, you must first put a fitting (additional fittings) on the nozzle and then insert the end of the pipe into the other one. It is necessary to remove (after waiting the required period of time) in the reverse order.
- After removing the connection elements from the heating device, they are inserted into each other, up to the pre-marked mark. In this case, axial rotations cannot be made.
- Now wait some time for the polypropylene to set. Further work can be continued after the joint has completely hardened.
At this point, the work on soldering polypropylene pipes is completed.
Conclusion
To install the heating system, polypropylene pipes with a reinforcing layer . To connect them, you can use diffuse soldering, cold welding or electrical fittings.
But it is the first option that is used most often in everyday life. By purchasing or renting an electric heating device (“soldering iron”), all the work can be done with your own hands and in a short time.
And you can get acquainted with all the subtleties by watching a video from the Internet.
Source: https://profpipe.ru/drugoe/kak-pravilno-payat-polipropilenovye-truby-dlya-sozdaniya-prochnyh-soedinenij.html
How to solder plastic pipes correctly and reliably?
The range of construction products is growing every year. Modern materials are appearing on the market that make construction stages easier and increase worker productivity. Consumers tend to use pipelines with a long service life when planning internal systems in their homes. Plastic internal communications branches have become a suitable alternative that meets consumer needs. How to solder plastic pipes?
Another advantage of such technologies is the ability to independently repair or replace water supply and heating networks. How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
Let's understand the types
Metal-plastic Polyethylene
Such communications are divided into subtypes:
- Polyethylene - used for laying wiring inside buildings and external routes. They can be used on high-pressure pipe connections and at low ambient temperatures.
- PVC is used to reduce the cost of repairs.
- Metal-plastic ones are the most practical products, with a useful life of more than 50 years. Ideal option for replacing hot water supply.
The widespread use of this material is due to a number of reasons. Positive properties of such structures, in contrast to metal ones:
- Long service life.
- Low corrosivity.
- Easy to install.
- Does not require special skills.
- Environmentally friendly material.
- Economical and easy to use.
- Lightweight and easy to transport.
- Resistant to the harmful effects of microorganisms.
Your water supply
Coupling assembly Soldering
Polyethylene models are mounted using the welded method or using couplings/fittings (coupling assembly). How to solder plastic pipes for water supply?
For new water supply networks, products made of PVC and polyethylene without reinforcement or reinforcement are suitable. Preparation requires creating a diagram of the future water supply indicating the lengths of the branches, its position and all the fittings necessary for installing the structure. Correct calculation of the lengths and number of bends will simplify the technology, increase the speed of task completion and prevent rework.
Soldering iron Pipe cutter
To solder polyethylene connections you will need:
- Soldering iron.
- Pipe cutter
- A trimmer for cutting pipes and trimming the edges of cut ends.
- Fine sandpaper for cleaning edges
- Connecting coupling (if coupling assembly)
The heating device is a special device with a sole with special nozzles of various diameters attached to it. There are devices that include two or more attachments at the same time.
The stages of technology for laying hydraulic communications will tell you how to learn to solder:
- We measure the required length with a tape measure.
- Use a pipe cutter to cut the measured length.
- Trim the cut ends. This is an important step in soldering. The cuts must be smoothly sanded and cleaned. To be more sure, you can additionally degrease it with an alcohol solution.
- We solder the ends. If a coupling connection is used when installing life support networks, then we install a coupling/fitting at one end of the structure and heat it together with the future return in a soldering iron nozzle of the required diameter. After warming up, immediately connect the ends and wait for the assembly to cool completely. The quality of welding is indicated by the presence of a shoulder.
Attention! When installing heat and water supply using a soldered seam, it is strictly forbidden for water or moisture to fall into the cavity or onto the surface. When heated, water, turning into steam, deforms the plastic structure, as a result of which it loses its strength.
What to pay attention to
Temperature conditions for soldering are described in the instructions for the tool. Modern products have an automatic heating mode depending on the size of the installed network and the welding depth. On previous brands, the heating strength was selected manually.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered? When soldering polyethylene risers, we set the temperature regulator at around 220 ° C, for polypropylene risers - 260 ° C. There is an indicator on the heating mechanism that shows the device is ready for use. The indicator lights up only in heating mode.
The duration of soldering depends on the circumferential radius of the pipeline, and can range from 5 to 40 seconds. The ends should not be overheated. This can cause a blockage to form at the adhesion site.
If you need to install a water supply of the same size, you should not overpay for the number of nozzles and the presence of a temperature mechanism.
If you plan a large volume of long-term production using networks of various sizes around the circumference, then we purchase a universal device for connection with the latest technical capabilities and characteristics.
Soldering nuances
Knowing the technology for connecting autonomous communications is not enough. For high-quality installation, you need to know a number of features of laying and soldering housing branches. How to solder plastic pipes correctly? To ensure professional assembly of technological buildings, it is necessary to remember some connection nuances:
- A warm-up time is provided for soldering assembly. This time ranges from 5 to 20 minutes.
- The production of in-house life support should be carried out at temperatures above zero.
- After soldering the ends, it is necessary to prevent them from scrolling or moving; it is enough to smoothly eliminate distortions. You need to let them cool. Turning the weld seam may cause a leak in the future. It takes the same amount of time to cool down as it does to solder it.
- The required power of the soldering tool is 1200 W.
- Home soldering irons are designed for soldering wires with a diameter of up to 32 cm. If you need to assemble products of large diameter, then we purchase a professional soldering device.
- There should be no gaps between the edge of the pipeline and the internal thread of the fitting. Gaps can leak under high water pressure. Excessive force when compressing elements can lead to a decrease in the clearance in the cavity and impair the performance of the entire structure.
- Residues of material from the nozzles should be removed after each pack produced. Since the nozzles have a special coating, carbon deposits should be removed with a wooden device so as not to damage the integrity of the surface. Scratches on the surface of the nozzle will worsen the technological characteristics of the device and render it unusable for further use.
Thinking about how to make heating?
Installation of heat supply has a number of difficulties. Heating models can be installed in rooms with low temperatures, which complicates the soldering process. For heat supply, systems are developed depending on the temperature of the water supplied to the system and the operating pressure. The use of plastic in construction has increased productivity and reduced costs for the necessary material.
Heating pipes are reinforced with fiberglass, which makes this material strong and durable.
Health protection and working conditions
When carrying out work related to heating heating main joints, we follow safety rules to prevent injuries and burns:
- We solder using special protective gloves.
- We monitor the cleanliness of the floor in the room. Dirt will negatively affect the quality of welding and the appearance of the entire structure.
- The soldering iron is installed on a flat horizontal surface.
- It is necessary to start working after the device has completely warmed up and after the readiness indicator has turned off.
- We do not turn off the electrical outlet during the entire installation.
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands is not difficult. The soldering process does not require professional skills or experience. Anyone can install life support networks in their own home.
The mandatory composition of the required tool includes only a soldering device. The remaining auxiliary tools can be replaced with improvised means, a pipe cutter - with a sharp knife.
A pipeline made of polyethylene structures and PVC is a reliable, durable and environmentally friendly system for supplying water and heating.
We recommend video: Secrets of installing polypropylene pipes
Source: https://VashPlastik.ru/santehnika/kak-pajat-plastikovye-truby
Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice
You can solder plastic pipes with your own hands, since this is a simpler task compared to the technology of welding metal analogues. This joining method is used to work with polymer communications of different types. However, the techniques for soldering plastic pipes and reinforced analogues differ slightly. To avoid mistakes when welding communications, study the recommendations of specialists.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU
Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.
Types of pipes connected by soldering
A soldering iron for working with polymer material is designed for joining water pipes, which differ in production technology and type of material:
- made of polypropylene - they tolerate high temperatures well, thanks to this property they can be used when installing a heating system;
- PVC: when exposed to strong heat, they partially lose their properties;
- plastic with reinforcement - due to the reinforcing layer, strength and resistance to heat increase, such communications are less susceptible to expansion upon contact with a heat source;
- heat-resistant polyethylene - tolerate long-term contact with coolant;
- polybutylene - superior in properties to analogues from other materials: they are durable, resistant to extreme temperatures, elastic, and can be used in pressure heating systems;
- sections of the copper pipeline are connected with a soldering iron or gas torch.
Necessary tools and materials for soldering
When you plan to repair or replace water supply networks, you will need a device for working with plastic.
Additionally, auxiliary tools are prepared:
- building level;
- pipe cutter or slicing scissors;
- a set of nozzles (included in the set of the welding machine for polymers);
- roulette;
- a shaver that allows you to remove the reinforcement of communications;
- chamfer;
- deburring tool;
- solder;
- flux.
Soldering iron for soldering plastic pipes.
Elements of the smallest diameter in everyday life are connected using the butt method much less often. Preference is given to fittings.
Solder for soldering
This is a consumable material used to connect copper sections of the pipeline. It is made in the form of wire, rods. Foil solder is also available. The materials of this group differ in composition. They can be produced on the basis of tin, zinc, lead, antimony, and silver. The quality of the seam joint depends on what metals are included in the composition. In addition, solder is divided into types based on exposure to high temperatures: low-melting, medium- and high-melting.
Fluxes and fittings
Fittings for plastic pipes for soldering.
Flux is necessary for welding metal parts. If you plan to use a machine for soldering plastic elements, this material is not used. Flux helps protect metal surfaces during the oxidation process. Another property of such materials is improved solder fluidity. Flux is available in different variants, differing in composition. Necessary materials for working with copper: zinc chloride, boric and hydrochloric acids.
Fittings are the connecting elements for pipelines: tees, couplings, crosses, etc. Their internal size must be equal to the outer diameter of the elements. This creates a reliable connection. However, if a PVC pipeline or other types of polymer structures are welded, then the seam connection using fittings in this case will be permanent.
Cutting scissors
The purpose of the tool is to make cuts on polymer products. If you use a pipe cutter, the edge of the communications will be more neat, and burrs will not appear. This makes further work easier.
This tool comes in different types, including:
- auto;
- guillotine cutter;
- roller shears;
- pipe cutter with ratchet mechanism (suitable for working with communications up to 75 mm in diameter).
Tips for choosing and using a pipe soldering iron
When you plan to weld plastic pipes with your own hands, you need to prepare the tool in advance, since polymer products cool quickly when heated. The main criteria for choosing a soldering iron for working with elastic communications:
- type of heating element: cylindrical, flat;
- the number of nozzles in the set, their outer diameter, which will allow you to work only with pipes of a given size;
- power – determines the heating capacity of the soldering iron; when doing the work yourself, a value of up to 1.2 kW is acceptable; when choosing a tool, the size of the connected communications is taken into account;
- the type of coating of the nozzles, it is important that the polymer material does not stick to them during soldering;
- type of temperature controller - affects the error in determining the temperature of the material.
The essence of the process and soldering methods
This technology is based on the principle of changing the structure of the material for joining individual sections of the pipeline. This ensures a connection with a high degree of strength.
Different ways to connect polymer pipes:
- electric welding installation technique – based on the use of special fittings equipped with conductive elements;
- soldering by heating parts: involves the need to change the temperature of the end sections and further compress them;
- cold welding of PVC pipes: chemicals are used that can change the structure of the plastic; after joining the pipeline sections, a permanent, strong seam is obtained, but in terms of reliability, such a connection is inferior to welding, and the elements of the system do not heat up.
Step-by-step instructions for soldering plastic pipes
During the installation of communications, it is important to avoid mistakes. If the installation technology is violated, the quality of the seam joint is significantly reduced, which leads to a reduction in the service life of the pipeline. The risk of leakage increases.
Security measures
Gloves must be used for work. Do not touch the heating element after turning on the device, as it tends to heat up to +300°C.
The room where welding work is performed must be ventilated. If there is a water source nearby, it is important to secure the work area. Do not allow liquid to get on the soldering iron during the welding process.
It is necessary to make sure that the welding machine is in working condition - the integrity of the wire is not compromised.
Preparation of elements and parts
It is not recommended to connect raw communications. First, the material is cut in accordance with the design of the water supply system. Even if a pipe cutter is used, the burrs still need to be removed, since they are formed, although in smaller quantities. To make communications easier to connect to fittings, chamfers are made at the end sections (angle up to 45°). A special tool is used for this. Before starting welding work, the pipes are degreased.
Before soldering, the pipe is degreased.
Preparing the soldering iron
It is not difficult to operate the machine for welding polymer communications. It is installed on a stand and then connected to the network. At the same time, the required heating temperature is set (if there is such a function), which is implemented via a thermostat. After this, you just have to wait until the thermogulator warms up enough (use an electric thermometer). The duration of this period depends on the power of the unit and the heating rate. You often have to wait up to 30 minutes.
At what temperature should plastic pipes be soldered?
The temperature regime varies depending on the type of communication material. Most often, polypropylene pipes are used; the temperature for them is set at +260°C (upper limit).
They work with polyethylene products under less aggressive conditions: temperature not higher than +220°C. In the absence of a thermostat, the main criterion is the heating time. The larger the diameter of the pipe, the longer it takes to warm up.
The heating time varies from 6 to 20 seconds (for communications with a diameter of 20-63 mm).
Docking rules
The main requirement when installing polymer communications is compliance with the axis of the pipeline. They are flexible and become plastic when heated. This increases the risk of incorrect pipe installation. To avoid the formation of sagging inside the communications at the joint area, leave a gap of up to 3 mm between the edges.
Sequence of soldering plastic pipes.
Pipe connection
After waiting a sufficient amount of time, the pipe and fitting are removed from the nozzles. It is important to immediately connect them, installing them in the correct position relative to the axis of the pipeline. Complete hardening of the polymer material occurs in 2-3 minutes. However, closer to the end of this period of time, it is no longer possible to adjust the position of the pipe and fitting relative to each other. This will lead to the destruction of the formed molecular bonds. As a result, the quality of the connection will decrease.
Cleaning and cooling connections
Connecting the pipeline to the fitting.
After connecting to the fitting, the pipeline section is left in a stationary position. Wait until the temperature of the material decreases to +40°C (a change of 1-2°C is allowed). After this, it is necessary to partially remove the sagging. Under such conditions, the polymer material manages to gain strength, but still retains sufficient ductility. This makes it easy to remove beads without deforming the seam joint.
The pipeline section must not be subjected to artificial cooling. It needs to cool in the open air. It is prohibited to use special means (blowing, low temperature sources or cold water) for this.
Checking the connection quality
The appearance of the pipe section is assessed. So, there should be no cracks in the seam. The material here should be uniform, without leaks, and the structure should not be porous. A connection without defects and with an influx of 2-4 mm is considered to be of high quality. If the pipe wall thickness is less than 10 mm, then leave a bead on the seam up to 2 mm high. When larger communications are welded, the overlap must be at least 4 mm.
Common mistakes
Inadmissible actions that can lead to a decrease in the quality of the seam joint:
- violation of the temperature regime when heating pipes: insufficient thermal effect or, conversely, overheating;
- complete removal of beads or cutting off excess material from the seam before it cools;
- applying excessive force when connecting pipes, which will lead to deterioration in the quality of the joint;
- if welding is carried out without preliminary treatment of communications, the seam will not last long, because dust and dirt remain on the pipes, which reduces the adhesion of materials.
Expert advice
If you do not have enough experience in performing welding work, you can study the recommendations of the masters.
Soldering in hard-to-reach places and corners
When work is carried out in areas where it is difficult to reach, it is permissible to heat the pipeline elements sequentially. First, you need to install a flange on the soldering iron nozzle, then a section of pipe. To prevent the first element from cooling down, it should be heated more strongly. To transition from difficult sections to the main pipeline line, angle fittings are used.
Connecting plastic pipes without soldering
If there is no welding machine, consider other methods:
- Cold soldering. In this case, it is assumed that a special adhesive composition must be applied to the inner walls of the pipe and the outer surface of the fitting. The material can be pre-treated with sandpaper, then the pipeline elements are degreased and connected.
- Application of a compression fitting: a connecting element is used, which is fixed with a nut.
Welding large diameter plastic pipes
If there is a need to install larger communications, use the butt connection method. In this case, fittings are not used. A minimum gap is left between the pipes; they are fixed with special equipment. After alignment is completed, proceed to soldering.
Source: https://VodaSovet.ru/vodoprovod/pajka-plastikovyh-trub-instrumenty
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes
The welded connection of polypropylene pipes is characterized by higher reliability compared to other methods of combining products with each other. This connection technology does not have any differences when working with polypropylene. The only exception is reinforced products: their installation requires some specific features.
This technique is quite simple.
Welding can be carried out at home, observing the requirements of the technological process and having the entire arsenal of necessary tools. There are several options for connecting polypropylene pipes:
- diffusion soldering;
- soldering with electrical fittings;
- cold welding.
In this article we will talk about each method of combining cylindrical products in more detail, consider their advantages and disadvantages, and also learn how to properly solder polypropylene pipes.
Welders
Before you begin, you need to prepare the installation tool. To create a reliable joint between the structures and all additional parts, you will need a special soldering iron.
It is worth noting that sometimes the connection of products made of polypropylene is called welding. However, this process has many varieties, so it is important to remember that polypropylene pipes are connected in only one way - soldering. For the installation of such a system, threaded fittings and metal-plastic are not used.
Soldering polypropylene pipes requires the use of welding machines. There are several types of devices on sale:
- heater with a round cross-section;
- flat unit.
The second type of soldering machine is popularly called an iron, which is largely due to its appearance. Such devices differ only in their design.
For the first model, Teflon nozzles are put on the heater and fixed with parts similar to clamps. In the second device, the same nozzles are screwed to the heater on both sides. The rest of the design elements are no different. The main function of the device is to perform high-quality and reliable soldering of polypropylene products.
The set of soldering devices must include nozzles. The most inexpensive device, the set of which includes a minimum number of elements, is considered to be a Chinese soldering iron. Its power does not exceed 800 W. It is presented for sale together with a stand, as well as attachments that allow soldering of PP pipes with a cross-section of 20-32 mm.
When the heating system of a private house is made of cylindrical products of this diameter, this kit will be quite sufficient. But if more professional work involving soldering is expected, you will need a better device.
For pipes with a cross-section of 40-63 mm, a different soldering kit is required. It will have to be purchased separately. The most expensive sets, characterized by increased reliability, are manufactured in large European countries. Their kit includes the following parts:
- soldering iron;
- stand;
- Teflon nozzles of different diameters;
- scissors that allow you to cut pipes at 90 degrees;
- hexagon;
- Phillips screwdriver;
- roulette;
- gloves.
Since you have to work with hot equipment to solder polypropylene pipes, you must wear gloves when performing the operation. Beginners often get burned when touching the heating element.
The design of any soldering iron is designed so that it is possible to install several nozzles at once for connecting small-diameter pipes, which saves time, especially when working with products with a cross-section of 20-40 mm.
Soldering machine power
To evenly and quickly heat a pipe with a diameter of 63 mm, greater system power is required. For domestic purposes, a device with a value that determines the amount of energy not exceeding 0.7-1 kW will be sufficient.
If the power of the iron is more than 1 kW, it becomes professional. Its cost is much higher than the price of an ordinary soldering iron.
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes
It is not recommended for a beginner to purchase such a device. It can be made from iron and appropriate materials, saving a significant amount.
Method one
To make a homemade soldering iron you will need:
- a broken old iron that still has a heating element;
- children's metal construction set;
- rubber handle;
- toggle switch;
- asbestos cord;
- duralumin;
- insulating tape.
Manufacturing technology
- use a grinder to cut off all unnecessary parts from the bottom of the iron;
- an aluminum cover is made;
- a box is assembled from the construction kit; a light bulb and a rubber handle are installed in it;
- a toggle switch and a soldering iron regulator are connected to the wire;
- all parts are combined into one whole;
- cables are soldered;
- The heating element is bolted to the body, having previously placed an asbestos gasket.
Thus, after spending a little time using available material, you become the owner of a homemade soldering iron for welding PP pipes.
Source: https://VseProTruby.ru/pajka/svarka-pp-trub.html
Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes
To install internal water supply and heating networks in a manor house or apartment, plastic pipelines are used. To combine individual sections into a single system, soldering of polypropylene pipes is intended. To perform the operation well, certain skills are required, but after some training you can do it yourself.
Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages
Polypropylene pipelines are suitable for hot and cold water supply and heating. Products with a reinforced layer of foil, fiberglass or aluminum can withstand temperatures up to 95 0 C, pressure 20-25 atm. They are used for internal water supply and heating, in the supply system from the main line.
The products have the following advantages:
- long service life;
- withstand high physical activity;
- are not destroyed by moisture or aggressive liquids;
- lightweight, making them easier to install;
- low thermal conductivity does not reduce the temperature of the coolant;
- do not impair the taste and chemical composition of the liquid;
- have low cost.
These characteristics of polypropylene pipelines make it popular in modern construction and when repairing water supply systems in residential buildings.
Types of plastic pipes, details of the soldering process
The concept of “plastic pipes” combines a number of products that differ in use and chemical composition. The following types are distinguished:
- Polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Recommended for cold water supply. Lightweight, durable. Used for open laying.
- Polypropylene (PP). They can withstand high temperatures and pressure, and are intended for the transport of hot liquids and in heating systems. Connections of individual elements are made by soldering propylene pipes.
- Polyethylene (PE). Flexible, elastic, when heated they become soft. There are high pressure (HPV) and low pressure (LHP). Used for cold water.
- Made from cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). They bend easily, withstand mechanical loads, high and low temperatures. Designed for hot and cold water supply.
- Metal-plastic. Multilayer. Used for drinking water supply and heating.
Soldering of plastic is ensured by the thermoplasticity of the material. When heated, it becomes soft, like plasticine, and individual fragments are easily connected when pressed against each other. Cooling leads to the formation of a strong joint that does not allow liquid to pass through.
During the soldering process, polyfusion occurs—the mutual penetration of molecules. Since the seam is formed from the material of the product, its chemical formula is equal to the formula of the material and retains its physical properties. At the joint there is no boundary between the elements, which explains its strength.
Methods for connecting polymer pipes
There are several methods for carrying out such an operation as soldering plastic pipes. Let's look at each in more detail.
Butt soldering
This is a connection of a product with the same internal and external diameters. The sequence is as follows:
- Adjusting the ends to ensure a tight fit; for this, use an edge trimmer.
- A flat heater is pressed against the end. Allow a certain amount of time to melt.
- Remove the heater and press the ends together, leave until cool. The process of polymerization and formation of a seam occurs.
To obtain a high-quality connection, special machine-type devices are used for butt welding. Such devices are chosen for work by professionals. At the household level, this method is practically not used for polypropylene compounds.
Sleeve soldering
Coupling soldering of polypropylene pipes is most often used for laying them in an apartment or residential building. Two parts are used here - a coupling and a pipe. The inner diameter of the coupling must match the outer diameter of the pipe. A coupling can be a piece of pipe, a tee, an elbow, a faucet, or another fitting.
Soldering is carried out using a device, on one side of which there is a coupling, on the other - a mandrel. A pipe is inserted into the coupling of the apparatus, a coupling is put on the mandrel, with the help of which the connection is made. The ends are heated simultaneously. It is important not to exceed the heating time so that the entire wall does not melt.
After heating, both workpieces are simultaneously removed from the heater, the pipe is inserted into the coupling to the marked depth. Further cooling leads to the process of polymerization of the contacting surfaces and their soldering.
Soldering using electrofitting
Soldering of polypropylene pipes using electrical fittings is carried out using a coupling apparatus equipped with an electric cable. The coupling fitting is put on the pipe and connected to the heater. It heats up to a temperature of 260 0 C, melts and they are soldered together. Next, the device is turned off and disconnected from the fitting. After the connection cools, a strong contact is formed.
Other soldering methods
One of the ways to connect polypropylene pipelines is the so-called cold welding. Performed using organic solvent glue. Its application to the surface of plastic causes the plastic to soften. The treated areas must be connected immediately, as the glue evaporates quickly. This method is used to connect PVC parts that are not very flexible when heated.
Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes
For home communications, plastic pipes with an outer diameter of 20-63 mm are used. For their soldering, small-sized devices are chosen. This is a soldering iron of simple design, often called an iron. The devices differ in the shape of the heating element; they are cylindrical and xiphoid. Attachments in the form of a mandrel and a sleeve are put on the xiphoid ones. They are designed for end soldering. The cylindrical heater uses a long, round, crimp-type nozzle.
In addition to the soldering machine, you will need the following tools:
- scissors for slicing;
- seamstress for trimming reinforced products;
- tape measure or ruler;
- marker;
- organic alcohol for degreasing;
- rags;
- gloves.
Having provided yourself with the necessary tools, you can get to work.
Choosing a soldering machine
Before deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes, you need to choose a suitable device. The first thing you should pay attention to:
- Power. At home, pipes with a diameter of up to 50 mm are used. For their soldering, a device with a power of 0.7 kW is sufficient. If you plan to solder sections with a diameter of up to 75 mm, opt for a unit with 1 kW of power.
- Type of heating element - plate or cylinder. The first option is easier to work with and should be used by an inexperienced plumber.
- Number of nozzles and their sizes. Select several diameters, matching them to the sizes of the parts used.
- Manufacturer. They give preference to well-known manufacturers who have proven themselves with quality products.
The quality of welding machines is determined by the error in the heating temperature of the part. Czech instruments are considered the best, but they are the most expensive. Russian-made devices are cheaper. For an installer who uses them for his own purposes, this is the most profitable option. Chinese products will fulfill the warranty period, but no more.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands
To connect pipes using soldering, the parts to be connected are heated and inserted into each other. After cooling, we obtain a single design. To know how to properly solder polypropylene pipes, you should read the instructions. The procedure is as follows:
- Cut the required pipe size.
- We mark the depth of its entry into the coupling.
- Turn on the soldering iron for polypropylene pipes and heat the nozzles.
- We put the parts on the nozzles. We maintain the heating time (we determine it according to table 1).
- Remove the parts from the heater, connect them, press, hold for 4-6 seconds.
- Checking the quality of the connection.
The heating time and temperature of polypropylene depend on the size of the pipes being welded; this is clarified according to Table 1.
Table 1
Pipe diameter, mm | Length of welded surface, mm | Heating period, sec | Welding period, sec | Cooling period, min |
16,0 | 13,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
20,0 | 14,0 | 5 | 4 | 3 |
25,0 | 16,0 | 7 | 4 | 3 |
32,0 | 20,0 | 8 | 4 | 4 |
40,0 | 21,0 | 12 | 6 | 4 |
50,0 | 22,5 | 18 | 6 | 5 |
63,0 | 24,0 | 24 | 6 | 6 |
As we can see from the table, all the main soldering parameters depend on the diameter. The heating or cooling time must be respected; deviation in any direction will lead to a poor-quality connection.
Before you start soldering, you need to prepare a soldering iron. Nozzles of the required diameter are put on it. The device is connected to the network and heated to 260 0 C. This is indicated by a sound signal or a flashing green light. Next, we follow the instructions, observing the required temperature and heating time.
When the pipeline is located in inconvenient places, individual elements are heated one at a time. The first one should have a higher temperature; while the second one is heating up, it will cool down a little. After this, both parts are quickly connected and held for 4-6 seconds. When turning, corner couplings are used to ensure a right joint angle.
Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement
Before soldering reinforced polypropylene pipes, the reinforcement layer must be removed. The aluminum in the wall requires a long time of heating to melt, plus it increases the diameter, and it is not included in standard nozzles.
A seamstress is used for cleaning. This is a metal sleeve with built-in knives, which, when rotated, remove the reinforcement to plastic. If the aluminum layer is located inside the wall, use a trimmer.
Mistakes that are unacceptable when soldering pipes
The main mistakes are:
- underheating or overheating of polypropylene;
- violation of the alignment of joined parts;
- violation of the soldering process;
- wrong choice of material or size.
If polypropylene is heated for more than the prescribed time, an influx of plastic occurs inside the pipe, which reduces its throughput. If the temperature is insufficient, the polypropylene joint becomes fragile and will last a short time. If the axes of the joined workpieces do not coincide, the pipeline becomes distorted, which impairs its operation. When butt welding, the material of the joining surfaces must be the same, otherwise the strength of the seam is compromised.
Soldering polypropylene pipes is a difficult process, but doable. An important point is the choice of high-quality material, a convenient and reliable soldering iron. When carrying out work, you should follow safety precautions, have protective clothing and gloves, and be sure to ventilate the room.
Source: https://trubarik.ru/polipropilenovye/pajka-polipropilenovyh-trub
How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions
If you have decided to make your own plumbing for your home, then know that the best material for this will be plastic pipes. In order to connect pipes into a single system, you need to understand how plastic welding is done. However, don’t let this scare you, since the process of soldering plastic pipes is not particularly complicated and does not require a large number of special tools.
To carry out welding work you will need:
- roulette;
- marker;
- building level;
- scissors for cutting plastic pipes;
- welding device for plastic pipes.
Almost every craftsman has all the tools, except the last one. You may need the latter only once in your life, so it is much more advisable not to buy it, but to borrow or rent it.
Briefly about the welding machine
Before you start soldering, you should briefly become familiar with the device you are about to use.
An important element of the welding machine is the sole, equipped with heating elements. Convenience of work is ensured by the fact that there are holes on the base that allow you to attach special soldering attachments. The temperature is adjusted using a thermostat located on the body.
Pipe soldering process
When starting soldering, the device must be installed in the desired position and nozzles of the appropriate size must be secured to it. Using the thermostat, set the required temperature:
- 260°C for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C for polyethylene pipes.
Allow the device to warm up for 10-20 minutes until the indicator goes out.
When performing soldering, you must proceed from the following data:
External pipe size, mm | 16 | 25 | 40 | 63 | 90 |
Interval to mark, mm | 13 | 15 | 18 | 24 | 29 |
Heating duration, sec | 5 | 7 | 12 | 24 | 40 |
Maximum duration of technological pause, sec | 4 | 4 | 6 | 8 | 8 |
Cooling duration, min | 2 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 8 |
The soldering process boils down to the following operations:
- Using special scissors, cut the pipe to the required length, using an alcohol solution, clean the joints from dirt and grease;
- Place the pipe and counter socket in the nozzle and heat for the time indicated in the table;
- Connect the heated elements together by inserting the pipe into the socket. This operation must be performed during the time called a technological pause in the table;
- After completing the operation, check the quality of the resulting welded joint, which will be noticeable in the form of plastic rings.
Recommendations for proper soldering
We have just outlined the essence of the soldering process. However, to ensure reliable operation of the pipeline, attention should be paid to the following details:
- The first welding operation should be performed five minutes after the soldering iron has warmed up.
- If it is necessary to weld reinforced pipes, you should use a special tool called a shaver to remove the aluminum and polypropylene, which form the two top layers, from the pipe. After this, the pipes are joined according to the method already described.
- Welding work should only be carried out when the ambient temperature is above zero.
- After welding, allow the connected pipes to cool, avoiding their rotation or mutual movement. In the case where the connecting seam turns out to be of poor quality, the assembly must be cut and the welding process must be repeated.
When working with a welding machine, it is necessary to observe certain precautions, failure to comply with which may affect the quality of welded joints. In particular, it must be remembered that the nozzles are coated with Teflon, which prevents the formation of carbon deposits.
At the end of each operation, melted residues must be removed from them using a wooden spatula. It is strictly forbidden to remove any remaining material after the attachments have cooled, as this could damage the coating and cause a malfunction of the entire device.
Source: https://masterim.guru/sovety/kak-payat-plastikovye-truby/
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places: tips and tricks
Polypropylene pipelines (PPR), due to their affordability, physical parameters and ease of installation, are widely in demand in households when organizing cold and hot water supply. During self-installation, the greatest difficulty is caused by soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, which is quite difficult for a beginner to cope with without making mistakes.
Therefore, it is useful to study techniques - how to properly solder a pipeline near walls, the specifics of soldering in corners, it is advisable to be able to repair polypropylene sections of a pipeline in compliance with technology.
At the same time, it is very important to make the right choice of tool and know the most common mistakes made by beginners.
Fig. 1 Industrial apparatus for PPR butt soldering - principle of operation
Methods for welding polypropylene pipes
To connect polypropylene pipes, several welding methods are used depending on their diameter, wall thickness and area of application:
- Stykova. The technique is used for joining large-diameter pipeline elements used in industrial and public utilities. The process occurs by simultaneous heating of pipe ends pre-cut at an angle of 90 degrees with a flat disk, after which their edges are forcefully pressed against each other on a special machine.
- Coupling. The technology is practically not used in welding polypropylene pipes (mainly with HDPE); the connection occurs using electric welded couplings, into which both ends of the pipe elements are inserted. When an electric current is passed, the inner casing heats up, becomes softer and loses its rigidity. As a result of this process, it is compressed under the pressure of the outer shell, forming a strong permanent joint between the connected elements (active hardening). After cooling, the active hardening effect remains, pressing the coupling tightly to the pipes.
- Bell method. The method, widely used in everyday life and in all areas of industry, consists of connecting the two ends of a polypropylene pipe using polypropylene fittings. For heating in everyday life and industry, special welding machines (irons) and heating nozzles are used, which simultaneously heat the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fitting, after which the elements are joined.
Rice. 2 Welding device - soldering iron
Necessary tool for soldering small diameter polypropylene pipes
The thermal diffusion method used for welding polypropylene elements is realized by heating them with special devices, usually called soldering irons or irons. Structurally, the unit is a steel body with a built-in heating element, to which cylindrical heaters (nozzles) are screwed, the dimensions corresponding to the standard outer diameters of polypropylene pipes.
The temperature is set by a mechanical thermostat and two switches; in more modern devices, an electronic temperature indicator with processor-controlled heating is installed. The majority of irons have a flat shape; a less common variety has a round heating element, the nozzles on which are fixed with double-sided clamping screws.
In addition to the iron, the following tool is required for welded installation of a polypropylene line:
- Scissors. Designed for cutting polypropylene pipes, they are often supplied with a soldering device.
- Pencil and tape measure. The tool, as well as a corner and a knife, are used to accurately measure and control the location of the cut areas and remove the internal chamfer.
- Set of connecting fittings. Includes straight and angle couplings, tees, taps, threaded fittings and other fittings used to change the direction or connect plumbing fixtures to the main line.
- Household chemicals. Substances may be needed to degrease the welded surface and clean it from dirt.
Rice. 3 Tools for working with PPR
Soldering polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
When deciding how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, the following factors should be taken into account.
Working with polypropylene pipelines in narrow places is more difficult than welding on straight pipe runs in conditions of sufficient space. Inconvenient places usually include areas near the top of the ceiling, spots in corners, and tight space conditions that make it difficult to install the soldering iron on the stand. In the latter case, you cannot do without outside help; an alternative solution is a special hook, prepared in advance in a convenient place, on which you can hang a soldering iron.
If the soldered pipe sections are located too close to each other on the wall, a special technique is used - the direct and mating parts of the joint are heated in turn. In this case, the first section is heated a little longer than the allotted time, and then the pipe is heated for a shorter time and, if possible, at a higher temperature (the regulator is set to a larger diameter).
The situation when the soldered sections must be of a certain length, but when welding them in line with a soldering iron, one of the parts will have to be cut to the width of two nozzles and a heating iron, can be solved in another way.
A similar nozzle is purchased, fixed on the heating platform, and each of the segments is simultaneously soldered in different planes, after which they are connected.
Using this method, you can mount not only straight sections, but also turns on walls, thereby ensuring a tighter fit of the line to the curved surface.
Rice. 4 Welding pipeline sections with an iron with two nozzles
Source: https://montagtrub.ru/payka-polipropilenovyih-trub-v-trudnodostupnyih-mestah-sovetyi-rekomendatsii-spetsialista/
How to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places
Plastic pipes are being used more and more often than metal ones, since they have undeniable advantages, which include a longer service life - up to 50 years for polypropylene pipes, as well as high sound insulation characteristics, resistance to temperature changes, low electrical and thermal conductivity.
PVC pipes are also popular because they are very durable, reliable and easy to install.
Initially, such products were not soldered. Polypropylene pipelines were connected by gluing with special adhesives.
In some countries of the world, polypropylene pipes with small diameters, which are used indoors, are still connected by gluing today.
However, a more reliable and simpler method of fastening is soldering. From this article you will learn how to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands.
And so that you better understand the technology of work, we recommend reading articles and watching videos on how to solder polypropylene pipes.
Required Tools
For soldering work you will need:
- roulette;
- scissors designed for cutting PVC pipes;
- soldering iron designed for polymer pipes;
- building level.
Most of these tools are well known to those who have ever participated in construction work.
Therefore, if you decide: we solder polypropylene pipes yourself, you probably already know the necessary tools well, or you can borrow them from your friends or colleagues.
If you don't have the tools yet, they can all be easily purchased at a hardware store. It can be difficult to find just the right scissors and soldering iron. As a rule, they are purchased as a set.
How to solder polypropylene pipes with and without a soldering iron?
Of course, this tool must be available if you are going to connect PVC pipes. Specialized scissors are also called roller pipe cutters.
The tool is available for sale in one of two modifications according to its intended purpose:
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-4 cm;
- for pipes with an outer diameter of 1.6-11 cm.
Soldering iron selection
A soldering iron suitable for cutting pipes is also called a manual welding machine. The tool is a heating device that has a sole equipped with heating elements.
As a rule, it is equipped with holes of different diameters in which soldering nozzles are fixed. The soldering iron is equipped with a temperature regulator.
It also has a heating indicator, a comfortable handle and a special stand. The latter allows you to install the device on a flat surface. The tool is turned on and off by pressing additional switches.
It is the soldering iron that helps answer the question of how to solder polypropylene pipes for heating or plumbing, and how to connect them.
And if you plan to install the pipeline yourself, you should get this device. Depending on the purpose, the tool intended for working with polypropylene pipes comes in two modifications:
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 1.6-5 cm with a maximum power of 650 W;
- for PVC pipes with a diameter of 6.3-11 cm with a maximum power of 1600 W.
Any soldering iron is equipped with paired nozzles of different diameters and a stand.
If you don’t yet know how to solder polypropylene pipes in hard-to-reach places, take a closer look at the soldering iron attachments.
As a rule, they allow you to perform complex work.
- Soldering iron tips are coated with a non-stick coating, similar to the coating used in cookware.
- Therefore, the instrument requires special care and cleaning.
Recommendations - how to solder polypropylene pipes
Before starting soldering work, you should carefully study the technology, the necessary instructions, and learn how to use a soldering iron in order to reduce the risks of irreparable errors.
When soldering pipes, you must remember that this is part of the soldering of the pipeline, so work should begin with its most difficult step - marking.
It is the markings that will tell you how to solder polypropylene pipes smoothly. It is good when the marking is carried out by a specialist who is familiar with the drawings of the pipeline system and represents the implementation of the drawings.
Pipe cutting
Before cutting the pipes, measure the interval between the fittings and add 3 cm to the resulting distance. After this, carefully cut the pipe at a right angle with special scissors.
Fittings are put on the pipe, marking the depth on it with a marker, thereby applying a transverse mark to the product. And the longitudinal one will make it possible to join pipeline elements along the axes.
Soldering of polypropylene pipes
First, turn on the soldering iron and insert a nozzle of the required diameter into its hole. Using a thermostat, you need to set the optimal soldering temperature.
At what temperature should polypropylene pipes be soldered?
Recommended value:
- 260°С – for polypropylene pipes;
- 220°C – for polyethylene.
The soldering iron is heated up for 10-20 minutes. You can know when it is ready for use by the heating indicator.
Next, the pipeline element that needs to be heated is put on the soldering iron nozzle at a moderate pace. It is heated for the time required by the technology and quickly removed from the nozzle, holding the soldering iron, if necessary.
- How long does it take to solder polypropylene pipes? As a rule, a polypropylene pipe cools down in 8-10 seconds, which means you need to work quite quickly. Using the nozzle, you can heat two elements at a time - parallel along the outer and inner surfaces.
The heated element is placed on the pipe, aligning the transverse and longitudinal marks. After this, the quality of the connections is verified. It is important that the solder seam is smooth in appearance.
For a high-quality connection, it is better to solder the pipes within the time specified in the technological tables.
Protective gloves should be used during work. Working with polypropylene pipes must be done carefully and patiently.
Soldering pipes is a simple process, but very responsible. If you want to better understand how to solder reinforced polypropylene pipes, the video on this page will help you understand the soldering technology.
Connection of PVC pipes with metal-plastic pipes
How to solder polypropylene pipes with an aluminum layer? How to connect them? Is it possible to solder polypropylene pipes from different manufacturers?
In cases where such questions arise, special adapters must be used when soldering.
One side of them is attached to metal or metal-plastic by means of a thread, the other is soldered to plastic using standard technology.
The only difference in the work is that threads must be cut on the metal and the connection must be sealed manually to avoid leaks. It is best to use tow or sanitary flax fiber as a sealant. This material is affordable and effectively seals the joint.
Using the same technology, adapters are installed, on the basis of which mixers are connected. The products externally look as if metal threads were fused into polypropylene.
How to check the connection for leaks
Upon completion of installation work related to the organization of the water supply system, you can begin to check the quality of the pipeline.
To do this, water is supplied to it. The valve is opened to the house or apartment, then the faucet taps in the rooms are opened. The water pressure should be maximum.
First of all, they feel the joints, especially carefully observing the threaded connections.
Sealed joints leak very rarely if the work is carried out in accordance with the technology and the specialist knows well how to properly solder polypropylene pipes for heating, water supply, reinforced with fiberglass or aluminum, large or small in diameter.
But if a leak is detected in the welded pipes, the water is turned off, and the vulnerable pipe connection is redone, having previously been cut off. Before soldering, the pipes are wiped dry so as not to break the soldering iron and warm up the polypropylene well.
If a leak is detected at a threaded connection, it can be carefully tightened with a wrench so that the thread does not break.
Another option is to strengthen the seal. But in the latter case, you need to turn off the water and unscrew the connection.
Now you know more about how to solder polypropylene pipes with a soldering iron, what tools to choose for installation work and how to use a soldering iron correctly.
Follow the recommendations of experienced specialists when creating a pipeline, arranging it yourself, or seek installation services from professionals.
Source: https://iseptick.ru/truby-i-fitingi/polipropilenovye-truby/kak-payat-polipropilenovye-truby.html