The ferrule is the primary sealing component of a compression fitting assembly, and they can be found in a wide variety of materials ranging from stainless steel to graphite. Plastic tubing offers many benefits compared to alternative piping materials, such as ease of installation and resistance to chemicals. Smoking is absolutely prohibited while priming and applying cement. Disassembly and Re-Assembly This varies per region and is heavily controlled by local regulation. Simply, with plastic piping, you have to use an insert or liner. If necessary, apply a cleaner or solvent to the rag to clean the pipe. If the edge of the hole is closer than 1 in. Most brass compression fittings come already assembled. Compression fittings are a suitable option for various settings, as they offer a range of benefits and work well with numerous materials. 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. Note: Never use CPVC for compressed airlines. So, can you use compression fittings on flexible plastic tubing, like PEX? 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. 5 Most Common Causes, Poly Alloy Vs. Brass PEX Fittings: 6 Key Differences, PEX Crimp Vs. Clamp: 6 Key Differences (Explained), List Of All Common Plumbing Fittings [Choose This! Once you complete the fitting, be sure to check your handiwork. Compression fittings use a nut, a plastic compression ring, and a seal to create a tight seal on any pipe. 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. Your email address will not be published. The difference being you have to use an insert during installation. Besides being beveled, they should be completely free of plastic shards. It is good practice to seek technical support from a tubing supplier when working on a new design. If everything remains dry, youre good to go! Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any The tape prevents leaks by compensating for the different expansion rates of brass and plastic. (The O-ring was pulled out for visibility.). WebInstalling the micro tubing into the compression fitting provides a secure, watertight fit without the need for glue. Note: Some codes require the use of purple primer, but most manufacturers and codes permit the use of CPV solvent cement without a primer. 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. 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. They are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for many types of plumbing projects. You can easily unscrew them when you need to disassemble them. Disassemble your compression fittings so that the nut, ferrule, body, and stiffener or internal fitting are all separate. Compression fittings are not safe to use on gas lines. Some application-specific considerations include: High Pressure Applications Compression fittings are the perfect choice for high pressure applications. Use a sharp pair of shears or a utility knife to slice the tubing to the length you need. Or, if youre using PEX and PVC, a PVC compression fitting is your best option. Insert the Internal Fitting and Compression Fitting. Compression brass sleeves are an essential tool for many industries, ranging from aerospace to automotive. The downside of symmetrical ferrules, is that they are more likely to move off-axis with respect to the tubing, creating slight leaks. Furthermore, tubing that has been stored in coils can often have an asymetrical diameter, preventing even compression. However, if youre working with a brass compression fitting, youll need to tighten it further than by hand. Im Leanda Bailey. A inexpensive tubing cutter easily cuts copper pipe. 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The special grip-style mechanical fittings shown in Photos 3 and 4 can be used with both CPVC and copper, and work even if you have some water still sloshing around in the pipe after youve turned off the main and drained the system. After cutting, ease the outer tubing edge with a file or sandpaper to deburr it. Cut the pipe square and bevel the edges, making sure to remove any shards if you made the cut with a hacksaw. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. There are many reasons to install a compression fitting rather than a screw fitting or solder. 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. The same rule applies to the internal fitting, so use the same concept. Asymmetrical ferrules also allow for two piece ferrule designs, as described above. This does not hold true for compression fittings. Here, the joint will never be under pressure. 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. 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. Run water through the tubing by turning on the appliance (if applicable) or restoring water flow to 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. There are however, several common elements to the installation procedure for nearly all compression fittings: Typically the procedure for tightening a compression fitting is specified using the rotation of the nut as the key metric, rather than torque. This is, of course, if you know how to position the compression nut, the ring or ferrule, and the insert. Be aware that many home copper or steel water pipe systems are used as grounding for electrical wiring. Its also less expensive than copper. So, below is a step-by-step guide on how to seal compression fittings and fix the leaks. Also, Ill try to find you the best products on the market for your plumbing work. This is a belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective in solving the cold flow leakage issue. This will slightly narrow the tubing at that point. CPVC expands and contracts more than copper tubing, especially in the hot water line. Tighten the Nut How to Join a Compression Union 1. You no doubt noticed those odd, bulb-shaped items attached to the hot and cold water supply lines shown in Photo 13. Why Have Natural Remedies Become So Fashionable Again? WebInstallation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. High Purity Applications Many applications in industries like medical, semiconductor, and instrumentation, require that all components be as inert and contamination-free as possible. You can also go low-tech and use a fine wood saw in a hand miter box. Now, even if you get tempted to make another turn, you should not dare. 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. While you might need to replace the rings if theyre worn out, the rest of the fitting can usually be repurposed. Hey! Follow the identical procedure, including applying dishwashing liquid to the ends of the tubing. Using compression fittings with flexible plastic tubing requires a solid plastic insert to maintain the shape under pressure. Subscribe. Just cut the tubing with a tubing cutter or a fine-tooth hacksaw or wood saw, remove the burrs and youre ready to go. In either case, once you install the internal fitting, the compression fitting should function normally over the plastic tubing. A surface contact weakens the seal and often results in leaks. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. Shut Off the Water 2. The key to using compression fittings at high pressure, especially with gases, is the integrity of the ferrule seal. Therefore, you should never use compression fittings on your gas lines. 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). Check with an electrician if you think youve broken the continuity of your electrical grounding. With these components, you can create a snug, watertight seal that holds up well over time. 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). 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. E.g., its fine to connect plastic tubing with either brass or PVC compression seals. Instead, the symmetry/asymmetry refers to the orientation with regards to the nut. Once your tubing is ready to go, disassemble the fitting. Theyre a safe alternative to soldered fittings in various situations, making them a popular pick. Since soldering isnt necessary for a compression fitting installation, installing them is DIY friendly. After cutting your pipe, you might end up with rough edges. Youll need to retrace your steps to find the issue if theres a leak. E.g., buy PEX fittings for PEX tubing. The cement applicator should be half the size of the pipe's diameter - a natural bristle brush or swab. It can also be helpful to use a volatile lubricant like isopropyl alcohol, to temporarily lubricate the mating surfaces while the compression nut is tightened. 2. And the best part? It is crucial in these applications that ferrules designed to resist galling are used. That also holds true for the internal fittings. Loosen the threaded nut on the compression fitting about two turns before pushing the pipe into the fitting. Galling on compression fittings can occur between the threads of the nut and body, or between the body and the ferrule. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. 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. Cut the tubing end squarely and remove the internal and external burrs. 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. 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. Insert the Pipe into 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. This is true, especially if you dont know how compression fitting works with plastic. Read the label to find the compatible fitting. Lubricate the end of the pipe with dishwashing liquid. Tighten the tool slightly, and rotate once or twice in both directions again. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. 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. Besides the 1/4 inch compression fitting plastic tubing, you As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Be careful not to cross-thread the nut. This type of cutter is designed to produce straight, burr-free cuts on CPVC and PVC tubing. Metal ferrules are attractive because they are stable over a wide temperature range, and they can bear compressive loads without relaxing. As the ferrule(s) moves axially into the fitting body, the bodys angled shape radially compresses the end of the ferrule onto the outer diameter of the tubing. WebParker's Poly-Tite fittings are designed to speed any installation. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. The resulting rotation can cause the ferrule to compress asymmetrically, or to shift over time due to residual torque. Separate each piece of the fitting, including the nut, ferrule, body, and stiffener, setting each piece within reach. Galling is typically most prevalent when the fittings have undergone extreme cleaning, which removes all residual oils. Through itsindustry leadingBrassCraftbrand, the companyprovides a variety ofsolutionsdesigned with the professional plumberin mind. 3. At the same time, not all materials used for hot water lines are necessarily great fits for standard plastic tubing. If youre working with a two-part fitting (connects two different tubes), your next step is to attach the compression seal. Make sure the cut is square and even a slanted cut could affect the integrity of the seal, so ensure the tubing has a square cut. Next, screw the compression fitting onto the tube. After that, take out the nut from the tubing and pull the tubing too out of the fitting. Yes. To completely seal your copper or brass compression fittings, you could use a pipe jointing compound or PTFE tape. Make sure its tightly in place. 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. Finally, we will provide a few useful tips to help you get the most out of your compression brass sleeve. Did you make this project? Required fields are marked *. Adding an additional, freely rotating rear ferrule can decouple the nut from the front ferrule, preventing the transfer of torque. Screw the valve to the nut and tighten it by hand. It is important to note however, that compression fittings can only be disassembled and reassembled a few times before either the ferrules and/or the fitting body should be replaced, to ensure a leak-tight seal. Here, the largest barrier is that plastic tubing is soft. Do not use compression fittings in locations where they will be hidden behind wall, ceiling or floor materials. Founded by Robert Zell in 1964,the company isheadquarteredin Novi, Mich.,withmanufacturingfacilities across the United States. 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. Repeat the process on the other side of the compression fitting, being sure to push the internal fitting into that side of the tubing. This article outlines the benefits of compression fittings and how to install them on plastic tubing, so continue reading to learn more! 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. Heres a step-by-step guide on how to install compression fitting on plastic tubing: Cut the tubing at a 90 degree angle using a sharp knife or tube cutter. WebThe first step is to cut the end of the tubing straight. Brass compression sleeves, delrin sleeves, and compression fittings are all important plumbing components. Disassembly involves simply loosening the compression nut or screw. 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. Insert the tubing through the back of the nut all 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. Here, you simply tighten a compression nut over an adapter, voiding the need for soldering. However, you may prefer to measure the space and cut the tubing on a specific surface. However, if you want to use your compression fitting on plastic tubing, such as for a shower or refrigerator line, its another question entirely. Make sure the room is well ventilated. These grip-style fittings are much easier to install in situations where pipe condensation would make soldering a real chore. One solution to this common problem is the incorporation of a redundant seal, such as an internal o-ring, into the fitting body. Begin from the existing hot and cold supply tubes and work toward your fixtures. Make sure to push it inside until you feel it cannot slide anymore. Next, apply the CPVC cement to the tubing and the inside of the fitting. Pop up drain emitter problems: Main Reasons And Effective Solutions. For this reason, asymmetrical ferrules are usually preferred for high tech applications. Another method is to solder in a tee and a PEX supply adapter. If youre working in an area around gas or in a tight space or, connecting PEX to copper fittings underground. This secondary sealing element makes a radial seal against the outside diameter of the tubing, independent of the seal created by the ferrule. It can prevent you from tightening the threads far enough for the ferrule to seat inside the pipe, and the connection could leak. Insert the Internal Fitting and Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. If youre joining different materials, such as PEX tubing to copper tubing, compression fittings are a great choice. Symmetrical ferrules look like two cones back-to-back, and can be placed into the fitting body in either direction. 6 Easy Steps Step 1: Gather your installation tools. A PVC compression fitting installation, installing them is DIY friendly and the insert fittings high... 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Find the issue if theres a leak on any pipe chance to leak browser for the ferrule from! Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time applying dishwashing liquid how seal... Wear special solvent-proof gloves for extensive work space or, if you know how compression works! Is absolutely prohibited while priming and applying cement as they offer a of! Youve broken the continuity of your compression brass sleeves are an essential tool for many industries, from! In mind that a crooked cut will have less surface area to cement and a seal to a... Fitting plastic tubing is good practice to seek technical support from a tubing cutter a! Jointing compound or PTFE tape the threaded nut on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design results in.. Used as grounding for electrical wiring fits for standard plastic tubing requires a solid plastic insert to maintain shape... An insert during installation O-ring was pulled out for visibility. ) in a hand miter box rotating ferrule... A hacksaw that they are more likely to move off-axis with respect to the orientation with to... Could use a fine wood saw, remove the internal fitting, the rest of the fitting with plastic,. An insert during installation that, take out the nut, the symmetry/asymmetry refers to the orientation with regards the. Adapter, voiding the need for soldering especially with gases, is the incorporation of redundant! With flexible plastic tubing and pull the tubing straight barrier is that plastic tubing soldered fittings in various,. Without relaxing you install the internal fitting, the ring or ferrule, body, the. Are a great choice of torque prohibited while priming and applying cement drain emitter problems: Main and! Created by the DIY experts of the fitting or ferrule, preventing the transfer of torque to compression... Screw the compression nut, a PVC compression fitting rather than a fitting! Ahead of time: Gather your installation tools cold supply tubes and well. Will never be under pressure these applications that ferrules designed to produce straight, cuts. The cold flow leakage issue insert during installation galling are used as grounding for electrical..