How to use a pipe soldering iron - Metals and their processing

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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU

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/

Types of polypropylene pipes. Soldering instructions. Tips and rules

Polypropylene pipes have entered our lives as a cheap and versatile building material. There are many ways to connect them, but one of the most reliable, practical and convenient is soldering. To perform quality work, you need to know some subtleties and tricks, which will be discussed in the article.

Pipe types

Many people miss this moment, but in vain. The quality and possibility of connecting pipes by soldering directly depends on their type. Here are a few of the most important points:

Pipe diameter.
Wall thickness . The heating time of the pipe depends on it. The thicker the wall, the longer it will take to heat the pipe or set the temperature higher.
External or internal reinforcement . This is an extremely important stage that many are silent about. Some pipes are reinforced with metal to increase strength. This protection can be located both inside the pipe and outside. When working with such pipes, there are subtleties that should be taken into account.

Also see the table of markings corresponding to the scope of application.

Marking	Scope of application and features
PN 10	For supplying cold water in heated floor heating systems up to 450C . Has thin walls.
PN 16	Used on high-pressure water pipes and low-pressure heating pipes.
PN 20	Universal pipe. Supply of water with a temperature not higher than 850C
PN 25	Hot water supply, heating. Water supply up to 950C . Reinforced with foil.

Pipes of the latter type are used to connect plastic pipelines to metal ones.

Types of connection of polypropylene pipes

When polypropylene is heated, mutual diffusion occurs - mixing of particles. What’s characteristic is that when it cools, the reverse reaction does not occur; the part becomes monolithic. This quality is used when connecting two pipes. Let's consider how the result is achieved.

Socket welding

This principle is most popular due to its simplicity and accessibility. To connect pipes of the same diameter, a special part is used - a coupling. Its internal diameter is slightly smaller than the external diameter of the pipes being welded.

Welding occurs due to heating and melting of the outer surface of the pipe and the inner surface of the coupling. Then the pipe is inserted into the coupling, the operation is repeated with the other part, and the connection is complete.

Butt welding

This principle is applied in production. To connect pipes of the same diameter, their sides are melted and then joined into a joint. The method is complicated in that it is necessary to ensure perfect, precise alignment, which is impossible at home.

Another disadvantage is the low strength of the resulting joint, so butt welding is not particularly widespread among craftsmen.

Cold welding

Cold welding (using glue) is another type of connection. A special glue containing a strong solvent is applied to the pipe. It softens the surfaces of the pipes and they can be inserted into each other.

The big disadvantage of this method is the low strength and tightness of the resulting connection. Another disadvantage is the drying time – a day or more. This is where cold welding loses to thermal welding.

At home, it is advisable to use connections using couplings. We will consider this method in more detail.

Required Tools

Before starting work, it is important to prepare all the necessary tools. Here's what you'll need:

Welding machine is a heating element with nozzles for different pipe diameters. Some models have a thermostat to maintain a set temperature; working with these devices is much easier.

Pay attention to the number of holes for nozzles. Optimal – 2-3 pcs . This will speed up the process of welding pipes of different diameters.

If you do not plan to use this device in the future, then there are many services where you can rent a welding machine for the duration of the repair. So you don't have to buy it.

Scissors. You can cut the pipe with a hacksaw, saw or even a grinder, but the quality of the resulting surface will be unsatisfactory. It is much more convenient and practical to purchase special scissors for these purposes.

Gloves to protect your hands - choose thick ones that do not conduct heat well. This will protect you from getting burned.

Shaver. The device removes the outer aluminum layer when working with reinforced pipes. The tool may not be useful, depending on the type of material

Trimmer. The device is designed to remove part of the internal reinforcement. This is necessary to avoid water getting between the layers of the pipe.

Degreasing agent. Necessary for cleaning the pipe from dirt and grease. You can use ethyl or isopropyl alcohol. It is not recommended to use acetone; it can soften polyvinyl chloride.

Carrying out work

Before carrying out work, it is necessary to prepare the working surface - measure and cut the pipes, remove the foil reinforcement, clean the pipe from dirt and degrease. Next, follow our instructions.

Assemble the soldering iron, heat it to 2700C .
Place the pipe onto the metal coupling and the connecting piece onto the soldering iron mandrel. The plastic will heat up and become soft.
Remove the connecting piece and pipe from the heater.
Without wasting time, connect the elements to each other using little force.
Make sure that alignment is maintained and do not allow bending.

In most cases, the diameter of the pipe is larger than the diameter of the coupling or fitting. When heated and then joined, a bead of molten polypropylene is formed, which closes the seams.

Try not to overexpose the parts to the heating elements of the soldering iron. The optimal times for the various installation stages are shown in the table.

Diameter (mm)	16	20	25	32	40	50	63
Heating (s)	5	5	7	8	12	12	24
Rearrangement (c)	4	4	4	6	6	6	8
Bonding (with)	6	6	10	10	20	20	30
Complete cooling time (min)	2	2	2	4	4	4	6

When working, consider the following points:

If the part cannot be placed on the nozzle, increase the temperature by 5-150C .
When working outdoors in freezing temperatures, increase the heating time.
Do not allow the parts to rotate relative to each other.

A correct and high-quality seam will not melt inward; if this happens to you, reduce the heating time. If the parts don’t fit on top of each other, it means you haven’t heated them enough. It is necessary to increase the heating time.

Final Tips

Here are some useful tips to help you in your work:

Carry out work only in ventilated areas. Heating the plastic releases substances that, if you breathe in them, can give you a headache.
Draw a plan for the future structure, this will make further work easier.
Remember to thoroughly clean the surfaces to be welded.
Completely remove metal reinforcement from the soldering area. Even a small piece at the seam site can cause damage.
After the welding machine heats up to the desired temperature, turn off one spiral. This simple measure will help extend the life of the device.

Try not to solder polypropylene pipes in a hurry. Four to six seconds is enough to calmly remove the parts from the heating elements and combine them according to the instructions.

Source: http://bydom.ru/news/read/poshagovaya-instrukciya-po-pajke-polipropilenovyh-trub.html

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.

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

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.

Criteria for choosing a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

Metal pipelines have long lost popularity. They were replaced by heating and water supply systems made of plastic. This material has surpassed metal in performance characteristics. Installing plastic pipelines differs from working with metal. To obtain tight connections, you need to use a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes. It is used to weld individual elements.

Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

Welding principles

How to properly solder polypropylene (plastic) pipes

So, dear reader, you have decided to change the water pipes in your apartment with your own hands. And if your choice fell on polypropylene pipes, I will help you learn how to work with them correctly.

I won’t go into much detail about the technical description of polypropylene pipes; a separate article will be written for this, but I’ll go straight to the instructions.

tool for soldering polypropylene pipes

How to properly solder plastic pipes with a soldering iron

Manufacturers of materials for laying utility networks offer a wide selection of modern solutions that have replaced traditional ones. In particular, this applies to pipes for installation in a house or apartment of a water supply system, a hot water supply branch, a radiator and floor heating system.

To lay or repair a local pipeline made of polymer pipes (polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene), you need a special tool and some skill in working with it.

Soldering plastic pipes is not a complex job, but it is important to understand the technology and take into account a number of points in order to get a reliable and durable result.

Tool for soldering plastic pipes

Pipe soldering machine

Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes

Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages

How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions

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

Types of polypropylene pipes. Soldering instructions. Tips and rules

Pipe types

Soldering plastic pipes: necessary tools, step-by-step soldering instructions, expert advice

Soldering plastic pipes with your own hands.

Types of pipes connected by soldering

Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes

diffusion soldering;
soldering with electrical fittings;
cold welding.

Welders

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.

3. Prepare your soldering iron

Criteria for choosing a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

Welding principles

Many people do not know which machine to choose for welding polypropylene pipes and how to use it correctly. There are three technologies for welding individual parts of polypropylene water pipes:

butt;
coupling;
electrofusion.

Soldering equipment and joining technology are selected depending on the diameter of the pipes. For example, for small diameter tubes (up to 63 mm), the socket method is used. For larger diameter products, butt soldering technology is suitable. An electric coupling can be used to connect parts with different cross-sections.

Soldering iron operating principle

How to properly solder polypropylene (plastic) pipes

I won’t go into much detail about the technical description of polypropylene pipes; a separate article will be written for this, but I’ll go straight to the instructions.

tool for soldering polypropylene pipes

From the tool we need:

Alcohol marker (a marker for discs will do)
Roulette
Building level
Special scissors for cutting pipes
Soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

The last one on the list will be cheaper to rent; I don’t see the point in buying one for home, because... you will only need it once. You can rent it in the same place where you will buy plastic pipes.

This list is only necessary for soldering pipes. If you are going to lay pipes in a groove, it will be useful to read the article “Installing electrical wiring in an apartment with your own hands”, in which I described the technology of wall grooves.

Instructions for using a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

How to properly solder plastic pipes with a soldering iron

To lay or repair a local pipeline made of polymer pipes (polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene), you need a special tool and some skill in working with it.

Soldering plastic pipes is not a complex job, but it is important to understand the technology and take into account a number of points in order to get a reliable and durable result.

Tool for soldering plastic pipes

Pipe soldering machine

In everyday life, a special device is used, designed to connect a polymer pipe to the corresponding fitting or coupling. The maximum permissible pipe diameter that a home craftsman can handle is 63 mm. Larger diameter pipes are mostly butt welded using professional equipment.

A soldering tool for home use is a unit equipped with a stand, the working part of which is heated to a predetermined temperature. The heating element (sole) is equipped with holes for installing nozzles of various diameters (from 16 to 32 mm).

Apparatus for soldering plastic pipes

The devices differ in design:

xiphoid;
cylindrical.

There is no fundamental difference which one to use for soldering plastic pipes with your own hands. In any case, strictly following the instructions will help you get the desired result.

Secrets of high-quality soldering

Guide to proper soldering of polypropylene pipes

Pipelines made of polypropylene, their advantages

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.

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.

Sleeve soldering

Soldering using electrofitting

Other soldering methods

Devices and other tools for soldering polypropylene pipes

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.

How to solder polypropylene pipes with your own hands

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ooY-UcQuIbU

Features of soldering pipes with reinforcement

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.

Source: https://trubarik.ru/polipropilenovye/pajka-polipropilenovyh-trub

How to properly solder plastic pipes with your own hands - detailed instructions

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.

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.

Source: https://masterim.guru/sovety/kak-payat-plastikovye-truby/

Types of polypropylene pipes. Soldering instructions. Tips and rules

Pipe types

Many people miss this moment, but in vain. The quality and possibility of connecting pipes by soldering directly depends on their type. Here are a few of the most important points:

Pipe diameter.
Wall thickness . The heating time of the pipe depends on it. The thicker the wall, the longer it will take to heat the pipe or set the temperature higher.
External or internal reinforcement . This is an extremely important stage that many are silent about. Some pipes are reinforced with metal to increase strength. This protection can be located both inside the pipe and outside. When working with such pipes, there are subtleties that should be taken into account.

Also see the table of markings corresponding to the scope of application.

Marking	Scope of application and features
PN 10	For supplying cold water in heated floor heating systems up to 450C . Has thin walls.
PN 16	Used on high-pressure water pipes and low-pressure heating pipes.
PN 20	Universal pipe. Supply of water with a temperature not higher than 850C
PN 25	Hot water supply, heating. Water supply up to 950C . Reinforced with foil.