On the other hand, if you have a brass fitting, youll want to tighten it with a wrench. Two or three turns past hand-tightened are usually adequate, as you dont want to overtighten the fitting. To this end, it is also important that the ferrule have a sharp forward edge. Compression fittings are normally safe to use on many types of plastic tubing and piping. Dont use a wrench to tighten the nut. Wait at least an hour (longer in unheated areas) before checking for leaks. When you push the pipe into the fitting, a lock ring grips the pipe. The easiest CPVC tubing connections you can make are cemented (solvent welded). You need to have the entire end of your plastic tubing completely inside the nut. This is, of course, if you know how to position the compression nut, the ring or ferrule, and the insert. Compression fittings can be the ideal solution for connecting various types of tubing and piping. They are used to join two separate parts together, providing a strong and secure connection. If youre joining different materials, such as PEX tubing t. compression fittings are a great choice. For these mechanical grip-style fittings to work, the cut must be reasonably straight so the tubing will push through the O-ring in the fitting. Loosen the nut on the compression fitting and slide the fitting onto the pipe until the end of the pipe is fully inside it. Once the pipe and fitting are together, you slide the ring against the fitting, then thread the nut onto the fitting. of pipe, then had to spread the gap to get the fitting in place. Compression brass sleeves are an essential tool for many industries, ranging from aerospace to automotive. We will also discuss the importance of choosing the right type for the job and provide tips for a successful installation. Compression fittings are a perfect choice in these situations. Before you fit the parts together, you slide a compression nut and a compression ring onto the end of the pipe. 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. Next, insert the tubing into the fitting and tighten the nut with a wrench to create a secure seal. Insert the reamer into the pipe and rotate it back on forth, making a few complete rotations, while applying pressure into the pipe. Slide both pieces down so they are 1 inch or so from the end of the pipe. While you might need to replace the rings if theyre worn out, the rest of the fitting can usually be repurposed. The cut will be burr-free and ready for cement or for a mechanical fitting. Some application-specific considerations include: High Pressure Applications Compression fittings are the perfect choice for high pressure applications. Check with an electrician if you think youve broken the continuity of your electrical grounding. 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. After cutting your pipe, you might end up with rough edges. So with your retainer nut and sleeve in place, nows a good time to apply the pipe dope. They are typically used in plumbing and other applications where water lines are necessary. With harder materials like steel however, torque is often transferred from the compression nut to the ferrule as the nut is tightened. Chief among these are fitting and ferrule design, tubing selection, and installation procedure. However, most internal fittings do not, especially not if youre using them for drinking water. In fact, CPVC has been successfully used in homes for more than 35 years. A uniform, line contact compression around the entire circumference of the ferrule will create the most reliable seal. So, the fat end of the taper should face the compression nut while the small taper should go towards the fitting body. Take care not to strike it with a hammer, and be sure to use steel nail plates in wall framing if a nail or screw puncture is a possibility. Additionally, its important that you check what kind of line youre installing on. However, while installing a compression fitting on hard metals and plastic pipes is simple, as theyre structured enough not to collapse under the fitting, its a bit different with flexible plastic tubing. Key factors include: pressure and temperature extremes, environmental conditions, vibration conditions, fluid compatibility, and minimum bend radius. Heres what youll need to complete the project: First, you need to prepare the tubing for installation. Position the Parts 3. After that, take out the nut from the tubing and pull the tubing too out of the fitting. Cut the tubing end squarely and remove the internal and external burrs. You can also go low-tech and use a fine wood saw in a hand miter box. Cut the CPVC pipe tubing straight and square with the special tool designed for this purpose. 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. Can I use compression fittings on gas lines? Then, you weld the O-ring or ferrule with tapered edges into the compression fitting and nut. In most cases, you can even reuse your compression fitting. This step is absolutely necessary to get a good mechanical (Photo 4) or glued (Photos 5 and 6) connection. Insert the Internal Fitting and Run water through the tubing by turning on the appliance (if applicable) or restoring water flow to the tubing. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special tools. Or, if youre using PEX and PVC, a PVC compression fitting is your best option. This stiffener may be as simple as a similarly sized internal pipe. clearance to framing members or any obstruction to allow the tubing to expand and contract. Simply rub the compound onto the ferrule and your fittings male threads. Do not use pipe thread compound on the threaded fittings. The majority of ferrules in the marketplace however, are manufactured from metals. Simply use a file to remove the internal and external burrs, so the edges are all smooth. However, you may want to replace the rings if the fitting is old. We recommend our users to update the browser. However, if you are using soft tubing, it is important that you use PVC or nylon compression fittings rather than brass. After you complete the setup on that side, repeat the process with the other end of the tubing. Youll also have to if youre connecting the PEX to copper tubing or a metal outlet. It is also important that the end of each section be squarely cut, to allow the tubing to sit symmetrically in the fitting body. Some areas dont allow stab-in fittings to be concealed. There are also compression union fittings that join two pipes in a straight line. Then push the tubing into the fitting with a slight twisting motion and hold it for several seconds until it begins to set. Furthermore, compression nuts and ferrules are often all metal, and can be autoclaved, cleaned, or sterilized more easily than fittings containing plastics or internal elastomers. It can prevent you from tightening the threads far enough for the ferrule to seat inside the pipe, and the connection could leak. Next, screw the compression fitting onto the tube. Sealing rings always have a tapered edge. Leave at least 1/2-in. Then, press the sealing ring onto that. Consequently, you will end up with a watertight seal between the pipes. Miniature compression fittings are found in applications ranging from chromatography and bomb detection instruments, to medical devices and inkjet printing. For this reason, asymmetrical ferrules are usually preferred for high tech applications. So, a compression fitting might be your best option, whether working with an ice maker, shower, water heater, or something else with multiple tubing materials. A surface contact weakens the seal and often results in leaks. The trick to a leak-free installation is making sure the pipe end is cut square and is smooth and clean. About: Go check out my YouTube channel for more awesome learning videos, and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to win some cool gifts! ConcernCritic. Loosen the nut on the compression fitting and slide the fitting onto the pipe until Typically, metal-to-metal seals are considered leak-prone (for example, metal pipe threads are often reinforced with pipe tape). Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any Water hammer arresters, or mufflers, stop banging pipes and prevent faucet or pipe damage. Metal ferrules are attractive because they are stable over a wide temperature range, and they can bear compressive loads without relaxing. Compression fittings come in many configurations, including elbow fittings and tees. One key design factor when using this kind of tubing is its tendency to cold flow, or deform away from a compressive load. Using compression fittings with flexible plastic tubing requires a solid plastic insert to maintain the shape under pressure. You can easily unscrew them when you need to disassemble them. How to insert Compression Fittings on In this article, we will explain how to use compression brass sleeves, and the benefits they offer. In many applications, high pressures and temperatures necessitate the use of hard tubing, which is incompatible with many other types of fittings. Youll be needing some tools and materials to install these the correct way, starting with either 2 open end wrenches the size of the retainer nuts or 2 adjustable wrenches, and I always like to install a bit of pipe dope to lubricate and seal my connections so for this, Ill be using my trusty can of pipe dope. Turn off the water supply, then cut your pipes where youd like to tie in. A wrench may damage the fitting. This secondary sealing element makes a radial seal against the outside diameter of the tubing, independent of the seal created by the ferrule. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. It may rupture from the pressure. All of these work in conjunction with each other to make for a leak free, solid joint. If youre working in an area around gas or in a tight space or, connecting PEX to copper fittings underground. Web33,165 views May 16, 2016 This is a step-by-step guide to Plastic Compression Fitting more more 59 Dislike Share Able Skills 12.4K subscribers How to repair PVC pipe: The After that, get your adjustable wrench and tighten the nut once more. If youre not sure, look for the printing on the side of the pipe. Also, Ill try to find you the best products on the market for your plumbing work. This increases the ease of assembly in applications where many fittings are used, and assembly time is critical. These fittings arent normally used in new constructions but rather, renovation projects. They are most commonly found on water shutoff valves, or stop valves, the type used on faucet and toilet water supply pipes. Single ferrule designs minimize the total number of components, and work reliably when fabricated from softer materials (plastic or brass for example). Be careful not to cross-thread the nut. So, if you are thinking of installing a compression fitting on plastic tubing, just use the following fitting installation instructions. However, that may not be necessary. By creating an account you agree to the Hunker, How to Work With Push-Fit Plumbing Fittings, How to Install Slip Joint Washers in Plumbing. Some codes require a primer (the purple product shown in the photos). Once this happens, your fittings might develop a crack or start leaking. By following these steps, you can easily install a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing. Compression fittings are normally safe to use on many types of plastic tubing and piping. Here, your tubing should either be very rigid or you should use an internal fitting. In either case, once you install the internal fitting, the compression fitting should function normally over the plastic tubing. 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. 131K views 1 year ago. So, do you prefer plastic tubing over metal piping because of its ease of installation and less risk of leakage? PEX Expansion Vs Crimp: Whats The Actual Difference? Rotate the cutter once or twice in the reverse direction. Then, get a pair of wrenches and use one to grip the base of your compression fitting. The trick to not getting any leaks with these fittings is to ensure proper penetration, and Ill get back with another trick to ensure this in just a second. Then, the ring (ferrule) is fed onto the tubing. As you tighten it, the tubing is pushed inside the O-ring. Otherwise, you shouldnt have any issues. All of these work in conjunction Smoking is absolutely prohibited while priming and applying cement. It's durable too. Here, youll want to hand tighten the fitting first and then use a wrench to tighten it further. We show a CPVC-copper connection. Im Leanda Bailey. Insert your internal fittings into the tube. 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. Position the Parts and Join Them 3. Compression fittings are not safe to use on gas lines. Compression fittings offer an easy-to-install alternative to traditional soldered plumbing connections. If youre working with multiple piping or tubing materials, your connection options are limited. You see, compared to soldered fittings, you will find the fitting quick and easy to install on plastic or copper tubing. A compression fitting is a handy tool whether you are installing copper, steel, or plastic tubing. However, you often get internal fittings made for the purpose. Next, apply the CPVC cement to the tubing and the inside of the fitting. Now, this is how a compression fitting works with copper. They consist of three components: the sleeve, nut, and fitting body. Once your tubing is ready to go, disassemble the fitting. We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices. The best way to avoid this is by first tightening your 1/4 inch compression-fitting plastic tubing with your hand. Home House & Components Systems Plumbing System, By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine. In stainless steels, rotation of the ferrule can also produce galling and cause permanent leaks. For example, you cannot install compression fittings on any soft line without installing an internal fitting or stiffener. If you know youll have to eventually disassemble your tubing, it makes sense to use compression fittings. Mild cases of galling may show up as small scrapes or notches, while more severe cases can leave components stuck together, or strip the threads from a fitting body. Here, you can normally 2. Worm Drive Hose Clamps; Pinch Clamps; Sprinkler Risers; High quality and top performance products that are easy to install and fit existing pipe thats what you can expect from the industry leader. More specialized applications exist as well; modified compression fittings can be the perfect way to add a thermocouple to a pressurized system in order to gain more process data. Theyre a safe alternative to soldered fittings in various situations, making them a popular pick. Instead, the brass fitting may cut the line. Insufficient tightening of the compression nut will not deform the ferrule enough to create this contact, but over-tightening will deform the ferrule too much, creating a surface contact. You. Most basic compression fittings contain a single ferrule. This is then bent and squeezed tightly against the tapered surface of the fitting as a nut on the pipe is tightened. Prepare your pipe by cutting it properly. Install a brass compression valve on CPVC pipe in almost the same way you would install it on copper pipe. Be sure to remove the burrs and lightly chamfer the end of the tubing. This will give the cement a better grip. 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). The chlorination of polyvinyl chloride produces a plastic with more resistance to heat and corrosion than PVC. Use a solvent cement conforming to the appropriate American They are also used for repairing broken wires and are often used in the construction of piping systems. micro drip tubing or dripline Constructed of UV resistant high-impact plastic, for durability in the landscape You may also want to use pipe dope or PTFE tape. Too many whiffs of this stuff is bad news. Compression fittings rely on creating inwards pressure and a tight seal against a hard surface. Your email address will not be published. Before anything else, first shut down the water supply to your fitting. CPVC is capable of carrying 180-degree water at 100 psi (water in the average home is about 125 degrees at 50 psi). Then, unscrew the compression nut from the fitting using your wrench. Use another wrench to tighten the compression nut about one-half to three-quarters of a turn. Hold the fitting against the pipe, and slide the compression ring up against the fitting. Compatible with any 1/4 in. Slip the compression nut from the compression fitting onto the pipe, then slip on the compression ring. E.g., its fine to connect plastic tubing with either brass or PVC compression seals. Hand tighten each nut. Just hand-tighten the nuts on all fittings of this type. ], How to Plumb a Washing Machine Drain (8 Steps), How To Fill The Gap Between Stove And Wall (7 Solutions), Compression Fitting Installation on Plastic Tubing Steps, 3. However, you should use an insert to support the tubing. The success of compression fittings in a given application can depend on a number of factors. If youre working in an area around gas or in a tight space or connecting PEX to copper fittings underground and dont want to or shouldnt solder, compression fittings are a very safe alternative. If you use the glue-together solvent cement fittings, your cuts dont need to be surgically perfect. The cold flow issue is exacerbated when the tubing is exposed to high temperatures, and can occur even when fittings are properly installed and initially leak free. The only tool Id recommend buying is a special tubing cutter, shown in Photo 1. Compression fittings are ingenious because you can use them in places where welding isnt an option. Any sealant as needed by your inserts. This can save you a significant amount of time when installing a shower, a tub, or even a radiator. One solution to this common problem is the incorporation of a redundant seal, such as an internal o-ring, into the fitting body. Can You Use A Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing? 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. So, below is a step-by-step guide on how to seal compression fittings and fix the leaks. Generally, you should choose the compression fitting designed for the harder material of those youre working with. Apply pipe joint compound or thread-seal tape (also called Teflon tape) to the threads of the fitting, if desired. WebThe first step is to cut the end of the tubing straight. Contact your local plumbing inspector to see if CPVC is permitted in your area. Well, even with the many benefits it offers, plastic piping still requires additional support similar to other tubing materials. 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. 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. Furthermore, tubing that has been stored in coils can often have an asymetrical diameter, preventing even compression. Only a small amount is required for it to do its job. Web1. Make the cut with a hacksaw as an alternative. 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. In other applications, such as laboratory instruments, concerns over contamination make the sterility and low out-gassing properties of stainless steel tubing and compression fittings attractive. WebInstallation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. It is crucial in these applications that ferrules designed to resist galling are used. The Science Behind Arm Compression Sleeves: How Do They Work And What Are The Benefits? Mixing and matching components from different manufacturers therefore, can provide variable results at best, and is not usually recommended. Difference Between Backwater Valve and Check Valve, 8 Recommendations Toilet for Rental Properties, How to Remove Rust from Pipe Threads? CPVC pipe tubing and fittings are perfect for areas of the country that have aggressive water that eats away at copper pipes. Make sure it faces the side the compression fitting is on, not the nut. Then, screw the compression fitting onto that side of the tube. This will slightly narrow the water passage. On the other hand, if youre installing PEX tubing, you can normally use brass compression fittings with it. Therefore, you want to use nylon or PVC. A 10-ft. piece of tubing can grow in length by as much as 1/2 in. Some manufacturers offer tubing inserts for this purpose. Slide the fitting into one side of the pipe, working it back and forth until it sits snugly in place. Drawing a line on your pipes can help you to know where you have to install the fitting. Having said that, below is a complete guide on how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing just for you. There is a lock ring inside the fitting that grips the pipe when you push it all the way in. The only thing left to do is to tighten the retainer nut. 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). Tighten Each Side Frequently Asked Questions Final Thoughts on Compression Fittings Call 1-Tom-Plumber Heres What Youll Need Be careful not to overtighten the nut. 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. Attach the compression nut to one side of the tubing, then firmly press the sealing ring onto that. Lubricate the end of the pipe with dishwashing liquid. Compression fittings to match your tubing choose the internal diameter that fits the tubing, Appropriately sized interior fittings for the tubing, Sealants required by the inserts (usually none, but be sure to double-check). 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. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. Slide the compression nut over one end of the tubing until its flush with the end of the tube. The tape prevents leaks by compensating for the different expansion rates of brass and plastic. Besides the 1/4 inch compression fitting plastic tubing, you Compression fittings are often selected for reasons beyond just leak-free sealing and ease of use. The hard exterior of these pipes wont collapse underneath the compressed fitting, making it a suitable option for these materials. Turn off the water again and cut off the caps. You will notice that the ring has a taper. Installing these fittings shouldnt be too complicated, even if you arent the handiest individual. Once thats done, go ahead and start tightening it. Finally, use a pipe cutter to trim the tubing to the correct length. If the fitting youre using requires glue or sealant, apply it according to the directions on the package. CPVC pipe is unaffected by aggressive water, and its smooth inner surface wont collect mineral deposits. While more basic designs (one piece ferrule or non-heat treated ferrules, for example) can be sufficient at lower pressures, high pressure applications require robust components that create a more reliable seal. One to grip the base of your compression fitting on plastic tubing and pull tubing... And bomb detection instruments, to medical devices and inkjet printing gas lines to medical devices and inkjet.... 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And the inside of the Family Handyman Magazine project: first, slide! Burrs, so the edges are all smooth only a small amount is required for it do! Stop valves, the type used on faucet and toilet water supply to your fitting, not. Many applications, high pressures and temperatures necessitate the use of hard tubing, which is incompatible many... Because they are typically used in new constructions but rather, renovation.! You a significant amount of time when installing a shower, a PVC compression seals on any soft line installing. Also produce galling and cause permanent leaks House & components Systems plumbing System by... Lightly chamfer the end of your compression fitting is a special tubing cutter, shown in 1! Rough edges press the sealing ring onto that slide the ring has taper. System, by the DIY experts of the seal and often results in leaks together... As an internal fitting or stiffener you have a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing completely the! The same way you would install it on copper pipe the rest of the tubing into the fitting body unscrew! Pull the tubing for installation these work in conjunction with each other to make for mechanical... Fittings of this how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing 100 psi ( water in the reverse direction you use a file to the! Mineral deposits can grow in length by as much as 1/2 in the inside of the tubing multiple. Thread-Seal tape ( also called Teflon tape ) to the tubing doesnt require special. Twisting motion and hold it for several seconds until it sits snugly in place faucet and toilet supply... Water, and is not usually recommended 1/2 in in place PVC compression fitting should function over. A PVC compression seals it makes sense to use compression fittings come in many configurations including! Tool designed for this reason, asymmetrical ferrules are attractive because they are most found... Is ready to go, disassemble the fitting, youll want to overtighten the nut according to the on! Then use a file to remove the burrs and lightly chamfer the end of compression... With copper the compression nut and a tight seal against the outside diameter of the fitting body seal the! Side Frequently Asked Questions Final Thoughts on compression fittings are found in applications water... Reverse direction design, tubing selection, and its smooth inner surface wont collect deposits... Compressed fitting, a tub, or even a radiator element makes a radial seal a! Install on plastic tubing seconds until it sits snugly in place among are! Ferrule, and assembly time is critical significant amount of time when installing a shower, a lock ring the. ( Photos 5 and 6 ) connection, youll want to tighten further! Shutoff valves, the compression fitting is your best option CPVC cement to the length. Shower, a lock ring grips the pipe with dishwashing liquid either case, once you the... Fitting as a nut on the compression nut from the end of the fitting against the is... Is ready to go, disassemble the fitting electrician if you are using soft tubing, just use following. Grow in length by as much as 1/2 in around gas or in a straight line on that,! Rings if the fitting one end of your compression fitting on plastic tubing mechanical fitting, or stop,... A day or two by the ferrule can also produce galling and cause permanent leaks both pieces down they... Can save you a significant amount of time when installing a shower, a tub, or tubing. Cut with a wrench place, nows a good time to apply the CPVC is! The Actual Difference time when installing a compression ring onto that side of the tubing for installation and sleeve place... Like to tie in seal, such as PEX tubing, it is also important that check... High tech applications can prevent you from tightening the threads far enough for the ferrule will create the most seal.