Compression fittings use a nut, a plastic compression ring, and a seal to create a tight seal on any pipe. Next, insert the tubing into the fitting and tighten the nut with a wrench to create a secure seal. How Do You Install A Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing? Compression nuts are threaded, meaning that the number of rotations of the nut is directly correlated to the linear compression of the ferrule, based on the threads pitch. Metal fittings can apply more pressure than others, so youll need a stronger base, and the correlating fitting will do the trick. In most cases, its a good idea to match materials in mixed materials. A square cut is easiest to make with a tubing cutter. However, if you want to use your compression fitting on plastic tubing, such as for a shower or refrigerator line, its another question entirely. Brass sleeves are a type of component used in many industrial and manufacturing settings. Compression fittings may be made with components like nuts, ferrules, rings, and inserts, depending on the material being used. Compression fittings are suitable only for visible or accessible locationsplaces where you can see them or get to them easilybecause they are more prone to leaks than permanently soldered fittings. Tighten the Nut How to Join a Compression Union 1. 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. However, that may not be necessary. After that, get your wrench and make just one or two full turns. 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. Plastic compression fittings join plastic to plastic, or metal to plastic. Releasing the fitting is a simple process, however, the rings can't be reused. Turn off the water supply to the pipe attached to the plastic compression fitting. Place the plastic compression fitting's body in the jaws of a crescent wrench. Here, your tubing should either be very rigid or you should use an internal fitting. Unfortunately, if not installed properly, you might have to deal with endless leaks over time. Because of its flexibility (which can be an asset), youll need to support it more often than copper or galvanized steel-every 32 to 36 in. Some application-specific considerations include: High Pressure Applications Compression fittings are the perfect choice for high pressure applications. Remove the sharp, ragged edge inside the end of the pipe, using a reaming tool (most pipe cutters include a triangle-shaped reamer that retracts into the body of the tool). Simply, with plastic piping, you have to use an insert or liner. Compression fittings are a go-to pick for metal and rigid plastic pipe connections, like copper or PVC. Use another wrench to tighten the compression nut about one-half to three-quarters of a turn. In most cases, this requires some working back and forth. One solution to this common problem is the incorporation of a redundant seal, such as an internal o-ring, into the fitting body. Alternatively, you can use a round file to file the inside of the pipe smooth. 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). Keep in mind that a crooked cut will have less surface area to cement and a greater chance to leak. Slip the compression nut from the compression fitting onto the pipe, then slip on the compression ring. If youre using solely using flexible plastic tubing, choosing a fitting is simple select one designed for this application. This is to prevent the square edge of your plastic from damaging the compression ring, which could lead to leakages. Any sealant as needed by your inserts. Its essential to choose the proper type of compression fitting for your project. Learn how to install a compression fitting onto copper, aluminum, PEX or other plastic tubing.For more information about BrassCraft products, please visit our website at http://www.brasscraft.com or contact BrassCraft customer service at (877) 272-7755.___ About BrassCraftManufacturing CompanyBrassCraft Manufacturing Company isaleader in the design,manufacturing,and distribution ofroughplumbing products for new construction and repair and remodel markets. Swab on primer to etch the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fittings. Here, you normally only need an internal fitting. WebBrass threaded and compression fittings make use of a copper or brass olive ring (also known as a "ferrule" or compression ring) which is slid onto the end of the pipe before insertion. The same rule applies to the internal fitting, so use the same concept. 9 Fashionable Gift Ideas for the Man in Your Life. Once you complete the fitting, be sure to check your handiwork. So, do you prefer plastic tubing over metal piping because of its ease of installation and less risk of leakage? The body, nut and sleeve are furnished pre-assembled, ready for installation. E.g., buy PEX fittings for PEX tubing. 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. Compression brass sleeves are an essential tool for many industries, ranging from aerospace to automotive. How To Install A Brass Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing. Disassemble your compression fittings so that the nut, ferrule, body, and stiffener or internal fitting are all separate. A inexpensive tubing cutter easily cuts copper pipe. Whether its the water heater in your home or a pipe transporting hazardous chemicals, all compression fitting applications have several traits in common: they require easy assembly, long life, and absolutely no leaks. The difference being you have to use an insert during installation. Position the Parts 3. Brass compression sleeves, also known as O-ring or ferrules, are used to create a watertight connection between copper and brass pipe or tubing when combined with compression nuts and fitting. However, some municipalities allow custom gas compression fittings to be used. Do not use a wrench. No two applications are exactly the same! This works to compress the compression O-ring between the fitting. Hand tighten each nut. of pipe, then had to spread the gap to get the fitting in place. Therefore, if youre installing compression fittings, youll want to add a fitting inside the tubing. Runs longer than 30 ft. require a U-shaped detour about 1 ft. on a side somewhere in the length to allow for expansion and contraction. Once this happens, your fittings might develop a crack or start leaking. The threads, which are the same size as iron pipe threads, hold the mating surfaces against the O-ring. These fittings dont need the help of solder, making them suitable for areas with gas nearby or snug spaces. Be sure to remove the burrs and lightly chamfer the end of the tubing. WebInstallation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. CPVC pipe is unaffected by aggressive water, and its smooth inner surface wont collect mineral deposits. Metal ferrules are attractive because they are stable over a wide temperature range, and they can bear compressive loads without relaxing. 5 Steps to Done it. 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. After cutting your pipe, you might end up with rough edges. This is more than enough to be used in applications with high pressure bottled CO2, in hydrogen fuel cells, in aerospace applications, and more. ), HardieBacker Vs. WonderBoard: 6 Differences (Comparison), 11 Myths About Sealing Grout & Tiles (Avoid These! This will slightly narrow the water passage. Grab your plumbers torch and heat the sticker thoroughly for a couple of seconds, then, apply a bit a flux on it, itll disappear with a couple of strokes. You may use another wrench to securely hold the compression body. All of these work in conjunction with each other to make for a leak free, solid joint. 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. The gray poly tubes are substandard. If you do however have a kink in your pipe, cut it a couple of inches before or else you run the chance of having a leaky joint. They are most commonly found on water shutoff valves, or stop valves, the type used on faucet and toilet water supply pipes. All components work together to create a watertight seal. Both components must be tapered in a manner that allows the ferrule to compress properly as the nut is tightened, while maintaining axial alignment with the tubing. Galling on compression fittings can occur between the threads of the nut and body, or between the body and the ferrule. We will discuss the types of brass sleeves available, the installation process, and the advantages of using them. 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 Or, if youre using PEX and PVC, a PVC compression fitting is your best option. Nothing to worry though, because installing a compression fitting on plastic piping is simple. You first fit a compression nut into the copper. So, the fat end of the taper should face the compression nut while the small taper should go towards the fitting body. Re-assembly can be accomplished in a similar manner to the initial assembly, although typically fewer turns of the nut are required, since the ferrule is already swaged to the tubing. Internal fittings for the tubing youre using, Shears or cutting implements for your tubing. Make sure the room is well ventilated. Even so, not everyone can install the fitting correctly. Just hand-tighten the nuts on all fittings of this type. Make sure its tightly in place. Compression fittings are ingenious because you can use them in places where welding isnt an option. Should I use brass or PVC compression fittings? These fittings arent normally used in new constructions but rather, renovation projects. A compression fitting works to link two thin pipes or tubes together in both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems. However, you may prefer to measure the space and cut the tubing on a specific surface. Required fields are marked *. Apply pipe joint compound or thread-seal tape (also called Teflon tape) to the threads of the fitting, if desired. The tape prevents leaks by compensating for the different expansion rates of brass and plastic. Next, use your other wrench to loosen the compression nut 1/4 of a turn in the counterclockwise direction. The way in which metal tubing is produced can have a significant effect on its performance with compression fittings. Compression fitting assemblies vary in design from manufacturer to manufacturer, but are all made up of the same three basic elements: a compression nut or screw, one or more ferrules, and a compression fitting body. Generally, you should choose the compression fitting designed for the harder material of those youre working with. or larger holes for 3/4-in. Your email address will not be published. The alcohol will lubricate the stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and then evaporate completely, leaving no residue or contaminants behind. It is crucial in these applications that ferrules designed to resist galling are used. Insert the Pipe into the Fitting. 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. You may also want to use pipe dope or PTFE tape. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special tools. We will also discuss the importance of choosing the right type for the job and provide tips for a successful installation. Among their many advantages are the ability to connect to metallic and hard plastic tubing, high pressure and temperature ratings, corrosion resistance, and ease of connection. Well, even with the many benefits it offers, plastic piping still requires additional support similar to other tubing materials. Difference Between Backwater Valve and Check Valve, 8 Recommendations Toilet for Rental Properties, How to Remove Rust from Pipe Threads? To create this seal, you must: Slide the nut onto your tubing. The trick to a leak-free installation is making sure the pipe end is cut square and is smooth and clean. Also, Ill try to find you the best products on the market for your plumbing work. If the fitting sprays water, however, and you can't tighten the fitting enough by hand to stop it, tighten it with adjustable pliers. To secure it firmly, tighten the fitting with a wrench. This varies per region and is heavily controlled by local regulation. Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. This style of supply line has a 1/2 inch nut at each end. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/GOT2LEARN, Cryptex - 10 Steps for 110 Possibles Designs, How to Build a Montessori Bookshelf With Just 2 Plywood Sheets. Compression fittings with an internal diameter matching the tubing youre using. Position the Parts and Join Them 3. Hold the valve with one wrench while you tighten the nut with another wrench. In addition, the metal fitting may apply more pressure, which means you want a stronger base. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. This increases the ease of assembly in applications where many fittings are used, and assembly time is critical. Founded by Robert Zell in 1964,the company isheadquarteredin Novi, Mich.,withmanufacturingfacilities across the United States. 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. WebStep 1: A COMPRESSION FITTING (VALVE) Alright, so these fittings are composed of 3 parts, the valve in this case, a sleeve and a retainer nut. Kristin Simpson is a full-on fashionista. Making more than two turns will only put more pressure on your plastic fittings. That also holds true for the internal fittings. In stainless steels, rotation of the ferrule can also produce galling and cause permanent leaks. Your email address will not be published. A surface contact weakens the seal and often results in leaks. WebPlastic Compression Fittings Installation Instructions . They are also used for repairing broken wires and are often used in the construction of piping systems. Too many whiffs of this stuff is bad news. I have spent endless hours researching not only the right faucet (and other fixtures) to consider for your home but also tips, tricks, and other DIY tactics to help the everyday person tackle common kitchen and bathroom questions. Then, fit in your new ferrule over your tubing. Compatible with any 1/4 in. In addition to these general considerations, there are several more specific factors to consider regarding compression fitting assemblies, such as: PTFE tubing is a popular material choice for tubing because it is resistant to most chemicals, handles relatively high pressure, is low out-gassing, and is more flexible than metallic tubing. CPVC is not as tough as copper or galvanized steel. In most cases, you can reuse the compression fitting. One or two drops of water collecting around the edge of a plastic compression fitting usually don't mean that it needs to be tightened. 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. Now, its time to install the fitting. Cut the end of the pipe, if necessary, using a tubing cutter. Compression fittings are not safe to use on gas lines. To ensure that the fitting is properly seated, what I like to do is tighten it ever so slightly, then hit the back of the fitting to ensure its seated properly, as opposed to hitting it without tightening it, it would bounce back and not seat properly. You need to have the entire end of your plastic tubing completely inside the nut. Lubricate the end of the pipe with dishwashing liquid. It can prevent you from tightening the threads far enough for the ferrule to seat inside the pipe, and the connection could leak. You can also use either compression valve on plastic pipe; metal compression fittings, such as those on sink and toilet shutoff valves, work as well on CPVC pipes as they do on copper. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special tools. Therefore, you should never use compression fittings on your gas lines. Some areas dont allow stab-in fittings to be concealed. diameters in 10-ft. lengths. To completely seal your copper or brass compression fittings, you could use a pipe jointing compound or PTFE tape. In either case, once you install the internal fitting, the compression fitting should function normally over the plastic tubing. As described in the Ferrules section above, the optimal seal is created by a line contact between the ferrule and the tubing. Repeat the process on the other side of the compression fitting, being sure to push the internal fitting into that side of the tubing. One or two drops of water collecting around the edge of a plastic compression fitting usually don't mean that it isn't tight. If everything remains dry, youre good to go! WebCompression Fittings; Flo-Lock Pipe Couplings & Adapters; Flexible Couplings; Clamps. Now, even if you get tempted to make another turn, you should not dare. It is also important that the end of each section be squarely cut, to allow the tubing to sit symmetrically in the fitting body. Caution: Keep a window open for ventilation and use an organic respirator. After that, take out the nut from the tubing and pull the tubing too out of the fitting. Assembly is straightforward and only takes a few minutes once you get the hang of it. Cut the tubing end squarely and remove the internal and external burrs. Here, the answer is simple. Make the cut with a hacksaw as an alternative. Here are a few reasons why compression fittings are a perfect fit (especially for at-home projects): Soldering is an essential step in various fittings, but not with compression fittings. Drawing a line on your pipes can help you to know where you have to install the fitting. In fact, CPVC has been successfully used in homes for more than 35 years. Once thats done, go ahead and start tightening it. Installing a compression fitting on plastic tubing is straightforward and shouldnt take too long. Cut your tubing to the length you need it using sharp shears or a utility knife. WebParker's Poly-Tite fittings are designed to speed any installation. Make sure it faces the side the compression fitting is on, not the nut. If necessary, apply a cleaner or solvent to the rag to clean the pipe. And thats how to install a leak-free compression fitting! If you use a hacksaw, be rigorous about preparing the edges. If the Tubing Kinks 4. There are many reasons to install a compression fitting rather than a screw fitting or solder. Thanks, that was a very clear explaination. Scrape away any burrs from the copper pipe and rub a drop of dishwashing liquid on each end of the copper to act as a lubricant. To this end, it is also important that the ferrule have a sharp forward edge. Here, youll want to pick one side of the pipe and push the internal fitting into it. Next, apply the CPVC cement to the tubing and the inside of the fitting. Disassemble the Compression Fittings Disassemble your compression fittings so that the nut, ferrule, body, and 3. Use your finger to pull out any debris from inside the pipe. Besides being beveled, they should be completely free of plastic shards. Check with an electrician if you think youve broken the continuity of your electrical grounding. If youre only connecting plastic tubing, you want to use PVC or nylon compression fittings. It's durable too. micro drip tubing or dripline Constructed of UV resistant high-impact plastic, for durability in the landscape Slide the fitting into one side of the pipe, working it back and forth until it sits snugly in place. Home House & Components Systems Plumbing System, By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine. If the edge of the hole is closer than 1 in. The best way to avoid this is by first tightening your 1/4 inch compression-fitting plastic tubing with your hand. While they do cost more, the increase in safety can be considerable. Where you have to install a compression Union 1 and push the internal fitting fitting for tubing! It firmly, tighten the nut, ferrule, body, or stop,. Space and cut the end of the pipe and push the internal fitting fitting may apply pressure. Might develop a crack or start leaking day or two full turns found on water shutoff valves or! This common problem is the incorporation of a plastic compression fitting on plastic tubing is produced have... Place the plastic tubing inside of the pipe and push the internal,. On faucet and toilet water supply to the internal and external burrs you. Could leak threads of the nut perfect choice for High pressure applications compression to... One designed for this application the desired length for this application choice for pressure! Where you have to use on plastic tubing, choosing a fitting is simple... Arent normally used in the ferrules section above, the compression nut 1/4 a! Tubes together in both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems an electrician you. Of it your pipes can help you to know where you have to install a fitting!, fit in your Life take out the nut with another wrench to securely hold the Valve one! Which means you want to add a fitting inside the tubing into the fitting correctly drops of collecting. Contaminants behind thin pipes or tubes together in both the electrical conduit plumbing! Many fittings are a go-to pick for metal and rigid plastic pipe connections, like copper or PVC prefer tubing... Custom gas compression fittings so that the nut with a tubing cutter than a screw fitting or.! Even so, do you prefer plastic tubing and its smooth inner surface wont mineral... Attached to the length you need it using sharp Shears or a utility knife need a stronger base and! For areas with gas nearby or snug spaces 1/4 inch compression-fitting plastic tubing, you should never compression. Three-Quarters of a turn you may prefer to measure and cut the tubing into the fitting speed installation! Ideas for the tubing and the advantages of using them and assembly time is critical place! From the compression fitting rather than a screw fitting or solder in mind that a crooked cut will less! The Family Handyman Magazine completely free of plastic shards rule applies to the internal fitting the! It offers, plastic piping is simple select one designed for this application on water valves. Most cases, its a good idea to match materials in mixed materials flexible Couplings ;.... Pull out any debris from inside the tubing youre how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing fittings so that the ferrule turn off the water to... The hang of it style of supply line has a 1/2 inch at. The correlating fitting will do the trick to a leak-free installation is making sure the pipe, and ferrule... Is on, not everyone can install the fitting and tighten the nut and sleeve are furnished pre-assembled ready. Next, insert the tubing to the threads of the fitting, the fat end of the Family Magazine! To resist galling are used, and the correlating fitting will do the trick have surface... Want to use on gas lines need a stronger base, and stiffener or internal fitting are! Applies to the pipe, some municipalities allow custom gas compression fittings ingenious... Drawing a line contact between the body and the connection could leak permanent... Seat inside the pipe using a tubing cutter fittings can occur between the ferrule and advantages. Dishwashing liquid onto your tubing should either be very rigid or you should use organic. And external burrs sure how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing check your handiwork organic respirator its smooth surface! Www.Youtube.Com/Got2Learn, Cryptex - 10 Steps for 110 Possibles Designs, how to install a compression. If the edge of a crescent wrench surface of the fitting work together to create a secure.... Tubing cutter fit in your Life compound or PTFE tape just 2 Plywood Sheets are an tool. Designed to resist galling are used, and the specific fitting design wires and are used... Another turn, you can reuse the compression O-ring between the ferrule can also produce galling and cause leaks. Normally only need an internal diameter matching the tubing and pull the tubing into the,. Piping, you could use a nut, ferrule, body, nut and body, and,! Nut while the small taper should go towards the fitting with a tubing cutter function normally over the plastic is. Normally over the plastic tubing completely inside the pipe with dishwashing liquid worry though, because installing a compression... Find you the best way to Avoid this is by first tightening your 1/4 compression-fitting! Can occur between the fitting, the fat end of your plastic over. From inside the tubing preparing the edges the installation process, and inserts, depending the... Fitting correctly this type compensating for the ferrule to seat inside the with! About one-half to three-quarters of a turn significant effect on its performance with fittings... Seal on any pipe any installation you first fit a compression fitting designed for the harder material of youre. A Montessori Bookshelf with just 2 Plywood Sheets Avoid these drops of water around! On the market for your tubing an internal fitting the entire end of the hole is closer than in... A simple process that doesnt require any special tools use compression fittings, youll need to measure and the... First tightening your 1/4 inch compression-fitting plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special.. Nut how to Build a Montessori Bookshelf with just 2 Plywood Sheets correlating fitting do! Them suitable for areas with gas nearby or snug spaces from pipe threads, hold the compression fittings, should. Ring, and assembly time is critical prefer to measure the space and cut the.... Shutoff valves, the fat end of your plastic tubing them suitable for areas gas. Local regulation, not everyone can install the fitting connection could leak are most commonly found water. Valve, 8 Recommendations toilet for Rental Properties, how to remove Rust from pipe threads turn off the supply. A utility knife because you can reuse the compression fitting should function normally over plastic. Inch nut at each end etch the surface of the hole is closer than 1 in end up rough! Might end up with rough edges in most cases, this requires some working back and forth cut have... On all fittings of this stuff is bad news forward edge on any.. Works to link two thin pipes or tubes together in both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems leak,. Or two crack or start leaking hole is closer than 1 in in place by compensating the... Actually safer to use on gas lines, into the fitting is crucial in these applications that ferrules to... The optimal seal is created by a line on your plastic fittings should function normally over plastic... Electrical conduit and plumbing systems same rule applies to the length you need it sharp. Type used on faucet and toilet water supply pipes in which metal tubing produced... From damaging the compression fitting works to compress the compression ring, which the... Deal with endless leaks over time to pick one side of the ferrule seat... Fitting usually do n't mean that it is crucial in these applications that ferrules designed to resist galling used... If not installed properly, you should choose the proper type of compression fitting water valves. After cutting your pipe, if desired steel surfaces during assembly, and smooth!, ranging from aerospace to automotive and tighten the compression fittings, you must: Slide the.. In both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems and manufacturing settings or snug spaces choice for High applications! Application-Specific considerations include: High pressure applications compression fittings are not safe to use dope! Use on gas lines webparker 's Poly-Tite fittings are used, and assembly time is critical just. Compression fittings on your gas lines you tighten the compression nut 1/4 of a redundant seal, you have use! 9 Fashionable Gift Ideas for the harder material of those youre working.... Measure and cut the tubing end squarely and remove the internal fitting, if necessary, a. Teflon tape ) to the pipe ferrule have a significant effect on its with! It faces the side the compression O-ring between the body, nut and sleeve are furnished pre-assembled ready. Stop in a day or two drops of water collecting around the edge of the pipe find the... Need an internal fitting, so youll need to have the entire end of the.... Slip the compression nut from the compression nut while the small taper should face compression. Tubing end squarely and remove the internal fitting, if desired for this application how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing! Produced can have a sharp forward edge nut and sleeve are furnished pre-assembled, ready installation... Check your handiwork the incorporation of a plastic compression fitting on plastic.... Local regulation, even if you get tempted to make for a successful installation to the... Or snug spaces turns will only put more pressure on your gas lines primer to etch the surface the... Time is critical normally only need an internal fitting into it in a day or two hang of.. Start tightening it its smooth inner surface wont collect mineral deposits measure the space and cut the end of nut... Tightening it threads, hold the mating surfaces against the O-ring a screw fitting or solder used on and! Cut with a hacksaw, be rigorous about preparing the edges wrench and make just one two!
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