Installing these fittings shouldnt be too complicated, even if you arent the handiest individual. Fit one wrench onto the body of the fitting and hold it so that the fitting doesn't move. Some application-specific considerations include: High Pressure Applications Compression fittings are the perfect choice for high pressure applications. And this is where a compression fitting comes in. A compression fitting is a handy tool whether you are installing copper, steel, or plastic tubing. 5 Steps to Done it. When you push the pipe into the fitting, a lock ring grips the pipe. (The O-ring was pulled out for visibility.). Therefore, you want to use nylon or PVC. Make sure to push it inside until you feel it cannot slide anymore. The Science Behind Arm Compression Sleeves: How Do They Work And What Are The Benefits? How To Install A Brass Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing. Because all of these components are designed specifically to be used in specific applications, they can be used in OD and pipe OD sizes that correspond to each other. Compression fittings are a suitable option for various settings, as they offer a range of benefits and work well with numerous materials. Installation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. Care should be taken to follow the assembly procedures recommended by the manufacturer. Open the jaws of the tubing cutter and fit it onto the pipe so the pipe rests squarely against the two flat rollers of the cutter. Tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the This system is designed to be very user-friendly, and because the outside diameter of CPVC tubing is sized the same as copper pipe, the grip-style mechanical fittings (Photos 3 and 4) can be used on both copper and CPVC pipe. Most basic compression fittings contain a single ferrule. If youre working with multiple piping or tubing materials, your connection options are limited. Thread-on copper water hammer arresters are available at home centers and are compatible with CPVC systems if you do not have aggressive water. If you use a saw, remove the burrs from the saw cut. Hold the fitting against the pipe, and slide the compression ring up against the fitting. The only thing left to do is to tighten the retainer nut. Dont use a wrench to tighten the nut. You. Plastic tubing offers many benefits compared to alternative piping materials, such as ease of installation and resistance to chemicals. And most importantly, how to correctly tighten the nut to avoid leaks. Go around the tubing several times with the dauber (Photo 6) to work the solvent into the plastic. However, if youre working with a brass compression fitting, youll need to tighten it further than by hand. On the other hand, if youre installing PEX tubing, you can normally use brass compression fittings with it. Compression fittings with an internal diameter matching the tubing youre using. If you overtighten the nut, it could force those threads further apart, breaking the seal. Additionally, the relative angles of the ferrule and the fitting body will determine how much linear motion is converted into radial compression, and what level of contact (line contact or surface contact) is made with the tubing. In our photo series, we show you how to run the hot and cold water supply lines to a basic half bath (sink and toilet). Be careful not to overtighten the nut. To secure it firmly, tighten the fitting with a wrench. Some of the key factors of the ferrule design include: The shape of both the ferrule and the mating angle of the fitting body are critical factors in the reliability of a compression seal. How to insert Compression Fittings on Smoking is absolutely prohibited while priming and applying cement. Pressure ratings decrease in the miniature realm due to more compact dimensions, but Beswicks stainless steel compression fittings, for example, are still rated to 3,000 5,000 psig, depending on the model. Position the Parts and Join Them 3. You need to have the entire end of your plastic tubing completely inside the nut. Then, press the sealing ring onto that. This is then bent and squeezed tightly against the tapered surface of the fitting as a nut on the pipe is tightened. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. Here, you can normally 2. Instead, the symmetry/asymmetry refers to the orientation with regards to the nut. If the compression fitting leaks, use both wrenches to tighten the compression nut gently until the leak stops. Its important that you only hand tighten this if youre using a PVC fitting. Installing a compression fitting on plastic tubing is straightforward and shouldnt take too long. The functioning principle of each component also remains more or less the same between designs: tubing is inserted into the end of the fitting, and the nut/screw is tightened, forcing the ferrule(s) into the fitting body. Cut the CPVC pipe at the point where you want to install the compression fitting, using a tubing cutter to produce a clean, square cut. Once your pipe is ready, slip on your retainer nut, then the sleeve and finally the fitting. The tubing should slide freely within each hanger to allow it to move as it expands and contracts. You cant solder PEX to copper or utilize glue or clamps for copper, so youll need a different alternative. While you might need to replace the rings if theyre worn out, the rest of the fitting can usually be repurposed. However, that may not be necessary. A wrench may damage the fitting. Tailoring The Perfect Look: How To Create A Sleeve Placket Pattern, Should You Wear A Knee Sleeve To Bed? Soap the end of the pipe to slip on a mechanical grip-style CPVC fitting such as this shutoff valve (cement-on shutoff valves are also available). Too much exposure can be hazardous. This negates the holding power of the ferrule, and can also prevent the ferrule from making a leak-tight seal around the full diameter of the tubing. Interestingly, it works in the same way as on a copper pipe, but there is a slight difference. 740. So, the fat end of the taper should face the compression nut while the small taper should go towards the fitting body. If it is metal tubing it is a good idea to de-burr it. If youve ever done any soldering, you know that you have to get rid of all the water in the adjacent copper pipes to heat the pipe to accept the solder. With plastic, you must put a liner into the end of the pipe after adding the compression nut. Common choices include metallic tubing (such as stainless steel or copper) and stiff plastic tubing (such as PEEK, nylon, Teflon, Kynar, or polyethylene). Pipe joint compound or thread-seal tape (optional). How to Install Compression Fittings. 1 Step 1: Cut the tube cleanly, preferably with a tube cutter. 2 Step 2: Remove any internal burrs. 3 Step 3: Loosen nut approximately half a turn & insert tube as far as internal stop. 4 Step 4: Hand tighten then tighten nut with two wrenches until firm. If youre working with a two-part fitting (connects two different tubes), your next step is to attach the compression seal. with special CPVC supports. Therefore, compression tubes are the first choice when using PEX tubes for hot water to copper outlets whether for showers, radiators, or hot water heaters. The compression sleeve and nut slide over the rigid supply tube, and tighten onto the valve. The only tool Id recommend buying is a special tubing cutter, shown in Photo 1. In addition, the metal fitting may apply more pressure, which means you want a stronger base. Sealing rings always have a tapered edge. Your email address will not be published. You could use either a hacksaw, chop saw, or a tubing cutter to achieve a clean, square cut. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. These fittings dont need the help of solder, making them suitable for areas with gas nearby or snug spaces. This is, of course, if you know how to position the compression nut, the ring or ferrule, and the insert. Tighter is Not Better Often when assembling fittings, assemblers and engineers assume that tighter is better. If youre using solely using flexible plastic tubing, choosing a fitting is simple select one designed for this application. Shut Off the Water 2. This increases the ease of assembly in applications where many fittings are used, and assembly time is critical. Disassembly involves simply loosening the compression nut or screw. or larger holes for 3/4-in. This secondary sealing element makes a radial seal against the outside diameter of the tubing, independent of the seal created by the ferrule. Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. After that, slide your fittings ring or ferrule onto your PVC pipe. ), HardieBacker Vs. WonderBoard: 6 Differences (Comparison), 11 Myths About Sealing Grout & Tiles (Avoid These! You can also go low-tech and use a fine wood saw in a hand miter box. Then slip the PEX supply tubing over the adapter and attach it with your chosen connection method (right). Refrigerators and other coolant lines normally arent strong enough for brass compression tubing, even with an insert. Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. The company upholds its commitment to promoting careers in the trades through its Zell Scholarship Program, providing scholarships for plumbing \u0026 HVAC apprentices. Compression fittings are often selected for reasons beyond just leak-free sealing and ease of use. Even so, not everyone can install the fitting correctly. Then, slide your tubing into the compression body, tighten the nut with your hand, and lastly, use a wrench. The alcohol will lubricate the stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and then evaporate completely, leaving no residue or contaminants behind. Mixing and Matching Components No two applications are exactly the same! Homes without these devices often have banging pipes. Wait at least an hour (longer in unheated areas) before checking for leaks. The chlorination of polyvinyl chloride produces a plastic with more resistance to heat and corrosion than PVC. Particularly useful for their extreme temperature and pressure capabilities, and their compatibility with aggressive fluids, compression fittings can be seen in systems varying from gas lines in refineries, to the plumbing under your sink. The key to using compression fittings at high pressure, especially with gases, is the integrity of the ferrule seal. 6 Ways to Dress to Represent Your Culture, 5 Ways to Cosplay Like Your Favorite Game Character, If You Are Looking For A New Pair Of Pants To Add To Your Wardrobe Consider Free People Cargo Pants, Why Cargo Pants Are A No-Go For Fashion Stylists, The Finishing Touch: The Importance Of The Hem Of The Sleeve, How To Attach Sleeves To A Jacket: Tips For Professional-Looking Results. All of these work in conjunction Thanks, that was a very clear explaination. Two or three turns past hand-tightened are usually adequate, as you dont want to overtighten the fitting. This is a belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective in solving the cold flow leakage issue. In most cases, this requires some working back and forth. For the mechanical fitting shown, we removed 1-1/2 in. Simply rub the compound onto the ferrule and your fittings male threads. Contact your local plumbing inspector to see if CPVC is permitted in your area. In fact, CPVC has been successfully used in homes for more than 35 years. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. If the Tubing Kinks 4. A compression fitting has three main parts: a pipe with male threads into which the water line fits, a ferrule that fits in the gap between the pipe and the fitting, and This will slightly narrow the water passage. Slide the compression nut over one end of the tubing until its flush with the end of the tube. Your email address will not be published. As described in the Ferrules section above, the optimal seal is created by a line contact between the ferrule and the tubing. After you complete the setup on that side, repeat the process with the other end of the tubing. If youre working in an area around gas or in a tight space or, connecting PEX to copper fittings underground. Insert the Pipe into the Fitting. Then, get a pair of wrenches and use one to grip the base of your compression fitting. This style of supply line has a 1/2 inch nut at each end. Thats because compression fittings simply unscrew and come off. Can I use a inch compression fitting on a water line? Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special tools. Run water through the tubing by turning on the appliance (if applicable) or restoring water flow to the tubing. In addition, if your fitting type requires sealant or glue, apply it now. Drywall Nails Vs. Screws: 4 Key Differences, 11 Cheap Ways To Insulate A Shed (Money Saving Options), 6 Alternatives To Popcorn Ceilings (Pick These! Share it with us! Fit the compression fitting onto the pipe (or fit the pipe into the fitting, as applicable) until the pipe stops inside the fitting. Compression fittings are one of the most common and versatile methods of connecting metal or hard plastic tubing. You may have heard claims about CPVC pipe and chemical leaching, the transfer of chemicals from the pipe into the water. If the fitting or nut threads are damaged, replace the fitting. If there is a particular design issue (for example, a tight bend radius) that necessitates softer tubing, it is important to reinforce the tubing wall. Next, apply the CPVC cement to the tubing and the inside of the fitting. You no doubt noticed those odd, bulb-shaped items attached to the hot and cold water supply lines shown in Photo 13. These grip-style fittings are much easier to install in situations where pipe condensation would make soldering a real chore. Harsh water won't harm the material, unlike copper, which will erode from acidic water. If you can't get a leak to stop, you may have cross-threaded the compression nut, or the compression ring may not be seated properly against the fitting. If youre joining different materials, such as PEX tubing to copper tubing, compression fittings are a great choice. Furthermore, tubing that has been stored in coils can often have an asymetrical diameter, preventing even compression. Caution: Keep a window open for ventilation and use an organic respirator. With these components, you can create a snug, watertight seal that holds up well over time. Single ferrule designs minimize the total number of components, and work reliably when fabricated from softer materials (plastic or brass for example). CPVC pipe tubing and fittings are perfect for areas of the country that have aggressive water that eats away at copper pipes. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. But for a better fit, chamfer the edge with a pocket-knife. micro drip tubing or dripline Constructed of UV resistant high-impact plastic, for durability in the landscape The compression ring (also called a ferrule or sleeve) is a thin brass ring with tapered edges. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. How to Replace Copper Water Lines With PVC Pipe, How to Remove a Plumbing Compression Fitting, How to Connect a Garden Hose to a Water Line, How to Install Sink Compression/Shutoff Valves, How to grow your own herb garden in any indoor or outdoor space, How to Glue PVC Pipes Under a Bathroom Sink, How to Replace a Hot Water Spigot on a CPVC Pipe for a Washing Machine, How to Connect CPVC to a Brass Shower Valve. Even if components from two different manufacturers look similar externally, they will often differ in key internal dimensions, such as ferrule/body taper, ferrule length, and thread size and pitch. Add shutoff valves using mechanical fittings as well. When you go to the hardware store, get a "homeowner approved" steel braided supply line the correct length to fit from the stop up to your faucet. This can save you a significant amount of time when installing a shower, a tub, or even a radiator. Compression fittings are most commonly used with hard tubing because the tubing wall must be rigid enough to resist the compression forces applied by the ferrule. Loosen the nut on the compression fitting and slide the fitting onto the pipe until the end of the pipe is fully inside it. All components work together to create a watertight seal. With our aim of creating a strong online fashion community full of fashion enthusiasts, we are here with the best and most relevant content for our readers. There is a lock ring inside the fitting that grips the pipe when you push it all the way in. Once you lubricate the end of the tubing with a drop of dishwashing liquid and push it into the fitting, it wont come out. Swab on primer to etch the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fittings.