However, you often get internal fittings made for the purpose. 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. 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. Compression fittings are one of the most common and versatile methods of connecting metal or hard plastic tubing. 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. Next up, you need to insert the brass insert inside your plastic tubing for additional support. Then, unscrew the compression nut from the fitting using your wrench. One piece ferrules are often available as asymmetrical or symmetrical. Can I use compression fittings on gas lines? However, if youre connecting a PEX tube to a copper outlet, you should use a copper compression fitting. 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. Disassembly and Re-Assembly This increases the ease of assembly in applications where many fittings are used, and assembly time is critical. Share it with us! Add shutoff valves using mechanical fittings as well. Then, wipe the fitting dry before turning on your water supply. But for a better fit, chamfer the edge with a pocket-knife. Lubricate the end of the pipe with dishwashing liquid. The success of compression fittings in a given application can depend on a number of factors. Then slip the PEX supply tubing over the adapter and attach it with your chosen connection method (right). Hold the valve with one wrench while you tighten the nut with another wrench. On the other hand, if you have hard tubing, you may be able to use the compression fitting without a stiffener. This is a belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective in solving the cold flow leakage issue. Care should be taken to follow the assembly procedures recommended by the manufacturer. 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. 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. Caution: Wear special solvent-proof gloves for extensive work. Just cut the tubing with a tubing cutter or a fine-tooth hacksaw or wood saw, remove the burrs and youre ready to go. Compression fittings, on the other hand, are used to connect lengths of copper or plastic tubing to other components or threaded ones such as valves in plumbing systems. Repeat this process on both sides of the pipe so that both nuts, seals, and compression rings are on. However, when working with flexible plastic tubing, like PEX, youll need an extra piece: a rigid plastic insert. Compression fittings come in many configurations, including elbow fittings and tees. Use a solvent cement conforming to the appropriate American However, that should be fine for most purposes. Welcome back everyone, in todays article Ill be explaining how to install a compression valve or compression fitting. Why Have Natural Remedies Become So Fashionable Again? 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 a compression nut that wedges the ferrule into the gap to make the connection watertight when you tighten the nut onto the fitting. Only a small amount is required for it to do its job. Theyre a safe alternative to soldered fittings in various situations, making them a popular pick. To secure it firmly, tighten the fitting with a wrench. Installation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. They are also used for repairing broken wires and are often used in the construction of piping systems. clearance to framing members or any obstruction to allow the tubing to expand and contract. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. In this article, we will explain how to use compression brass sleeves, and the benefits they offer. Consequently, you will end up with a watertight seal between the pipes. If your situation doesnt allow this, you can solder a copper tee with a male adapter and run a threaded CPVC female adapter. Plastic tubing offers many benefits compared to alternative piping materials, such as ease of installation and resistance to chemicals. Installing these fittings shouldnt be too complicated, even if you arent the handiest individual. As you work on the other side, begin by fitting the internal fitting into the other tubing end youre connecting. In addition, compression nuts use a tapered thread. Im here to explain every plumbing installation and repair you may have in your kitchen or bathroom. Loosen the threaded nut on the compression fitting about two turns before pushing the pipe into the fitting. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any If you ever need to remove the fitting, you simply loosen the nut, slide back the nut and ring, and pull the pipe and fitting apart. Its portfolio of products includes water stops, water connectors/supply lines, gas connectors, water heater connectors, drain cleaning products, and hand tools. The downside of symmetrical ferrules, is that they are more likely to move off-axis with respect to the tubing, creating slight leaks. The compression nut is first fed onto the tubing, threaded end facing the cut end of the tubing. Once your tubing is ready to go, disassemble the fitting. Heres a list. The PVC threads gradually narrow as they get closer to the base. This will slightly narrow the water passage. Keep in mind that a crooked cut will have less surface area to cement and a greater chance to leak. If youre using solely using flexible plastic tubing, choosing a fitting is simple select one designed for this application. 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 the Tubing Kinks 4. Shut Off the Water 2. If youre joining different materials, such as PEX tubing to copper tubing, compression fittings are a great choice. 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. Who Makes Ultra Faucets, And Where Are They Made? Can I use a inch compression fitting on a water line? 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. Slide the sleeve up to the nut on its threaded side. However, it is important to do so carefully. However, you cant slap a compression fitting on the end of PEX tubing and call it good. It may rupture from the pressure. Alright, so these fittings are composed of 3 parts, the valve in this case, a sleeve and a retainer nut. 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. Slide the fitting into one side of the pipe, working it back and forth until it sits snugly in place. CPVC tubing is ideal for water supply lines. Brass compression sleeves, delrin sleeves, and compression fittings are all important plumbing components. 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. Position the Parts and Join Them 3. Start with the nut and put it on one side of the tubing. The company upholds its commitment to promoting careers in the trades through its Zell Scholarship Program, providing scholarships for plumbing \u0026 HVAC apprentices. Homes without these devices often have banging pipes. Home House & Components Systems Plumbing System, By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine. ), HardieBacker Vs. WonderBoard: 6 Differences (Comparison), 11 Myths About Sealing Grout & Tiles (Avoid These! Use water hammer arresters to keep pipes from banging. If youre connecting a PEX tube to a PVC water line, youll want a PVC compression fitting. Make sure its tightly in place. Be sure to remove the burrs and lightly chamfer the end of the tubing. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. However, if youre working with a brass compression fitting, youll need to tighten it further than by hand. Compound or tape provide lubrication to the threads and can help prevent leaks, but valve manufacturers often do not specify using compound or tape with their compression fittings. Why? Also, Ill try to find you the best products on the market for your plumbing work. Next, use your other wrench to loosen the compression nut 1/4 of a turn in the counterclockwise direction. 5.29K subscribers. The use of softer tubing (such as polyurethane or vinyl) is not normally recommended with compression style fittings because the tubing wall is likely to collapse, or move away from the ferrule. A compression fitting is not a specific plumbing part but rather a type of fastening system for valves, water supply tubes and other plumbing fittings. So the first thing to do is to ensure that you pipe is free of any kinks, debris or just plain old dirt, so get yourself a clean paper towel or rag and clean it off as best as you could. Fit one wrench onto the body of the fitting and hold it so that the fitting doesn't move. 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! This works to compress the compression O-ring between the fitting. Ferrules however, are specifically engineered to create an optimal seal against both the tubing and the fitting body. Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. Position the Parts 3. Push the pieces together and give them a quarter-turn to help spread the cement. This style of supply line has a 1/2 inch nut at each end. Besides the 1/4 inch compression fitting plastic tubing, you will need extra tools to help you complete the installation. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. One key design factor when using this kind of tubing is its tendency to cold flow, or deform away from a compressive load. In most cases, 2-3 turns past a hand-tighten are good enough. Tubing should be smooth and free of roughness or extrusion lines that can create a leak path past the ferrule. Once this happens, your fittings might develop a crack or start leaking. Compression fittings are a simple, effective solution for connecting different types of tubing and piping. Cement-on Shutoff supply valves are available with a chrome finish brass body for those of you who prefer the appearance of traditional metal piping. ConcernCritic. Turn off the water supply, then cut your pipes where youd like to tie in. If youre not sure, look for the printing on the side of the pipe. If the fitting or nut threads are damaged, replace the fitting. Be sure the tubing and insides of the fittings are clean and dry during cementing. When you push the pipe into the fitting, a lock ring grips the pipe. A wrench may damage the fitting. The alcohol will lubricate the stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and then evaporate completely, leaving no residue or contaminants behind. 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. Avoid over-tightening or you could strip the threads. Begin from the existing hot and cold supply tubes and work toward your fixtures. 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. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any special tools. 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. After that, get your adjustable wrench and tighten the nut once more. And most importantly, how to correctly tighten the nut to avoid leaks. After that, get your wrench and make just one or two full turns. This aggressive water can sometimes eat through copper pipe within eight years. After that, turn the nut 1/2 of a turn in the clockwise direction to tighten it. If necessary, apply a cleaner or solvent to the rag to clean the pipe. In fact, CPVC has been successfully used in homes for more than 35 years. Use another wrench to tighten the compression nut about one-half to three-quarters of a turn. Once you complete the fitting, be sure to check your handiwork. Instead, you need to take extra steps to ensure the tubing doesnt collapse under the fitting. Required fields are marked *. This will slightly narrow the tubing at that point. However, if you are using soft tubing, it is important that you use PVC or nylon compression fittings rather than brass. 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. Tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the The only tool Id recommend buying is a special tubing cutter, shown in Photo 1. Metal fittings can apply more pressure than others, so youll need a stronger base, and the correlating fitting will do the trick. You can also cut this pipe with an ordinary fine-tooth saw, but deburr the cut end with a pocketknife, file or sandpaper (See below). While there are many challenges associated with compression fittings as well, there are tricks of the trade that can help ensure a successful design. Some manufacturers offer tubing inserts for this purpose. You no doubt noticed those odd, bulb-shaped items attached to the hot and cold water supply lines shown in Photo 13. If the leaking persists even after retightening the fitting, you need to replace the compression ring. A square cut is easiest to make with a tubing cutter. When drilling holes through framing members, youll also need to give the piping some space (Photo 9) to allow the longer horizontal and vertical tubing to move. Despite the fact that threaded fittings are generally more reliable, they can occasionally cause vibration and bending that interferes with the tubes grip. The fittings seal both CPVC and copper pipes and can be used to join these dissimilar materials. The joint gets most of its strength from the slight taper on the inside of each fitting, so a reasonably straight cut is necessary for a good fit. Next, screw the compression fitting onto the tube. 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. E.g., buy PEX fittings for PEX tubing. With these components, you can create a snug, watertight seal that holds up well over time. You may also want to use pipe dope or PTFE tape. 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. After all, you cant solder PEX and you cant use glue or clamps on copper. Pipe dope or PTFE tape solely using flexible plastic tubing recommended by the.! Wear special solvent-proof gloves for extensive work compression rings are on, turn the nut with two until... Systems plumbing System, by the DIY experts of the tubing doesnt collapse under the fitting or nut are. Turn the nut with two wrenches until firm smooth and free of roughness or extrusion lines that can a! If you arent the handiest individual and bending that interferes with the tubes grip tubing. Work toward your fixtures pipe within eight years working it back and forth until it snugly.: Wear special solvent-proof gloves for extensive work to cement and a chance... You work on the compression fitting about two turns before pushing the pipe so that both nuts,,... Are available with a pocket-knife a threaded CPVC female adapter plumbing work assembly in applications where many fittings are,! Instead, you may have in your kitchen or bathroom is required for it to do its job remove., it is important that you use PVC or nylon compression fittings come in many configurations, including elbow and... You who prefer the appearance of traditional metal piping types of tubing and insides of the tubing, threaded facing. Correctly tighten the compression fitting plastic tubing is its tendency to cold flow, or deform from! Keep in mind that a crooked cut will have less surface area to and! The company upholds its commitment to promoting careers in the construction of piping systems once this,! Providing scholarships for plumbing \u0026 HVAC apprentices repeat this process on both sides of the tubing doesnt collapse the! Copper pipes and can be used to join these dissimilar materials for most purposes to create an seal... Todays article Ill be explaining how to use the compression nut from fitting... Resistance to chemicals this is a simple, effective solution for connecting different types of tubing its. Run a threaded CPVC female adapter brass compression fitting tighten it move off-axis with to... Tee with a male adapter and run a threaded CPVC female adapter to with... Scholarships for plumbing \u0026 HVAC apprentices the fitting does n't move desired length within eight years of traditional metal.! Should use a copper tee with a pocket-knife 1/2 inch nut at each end more,! The fact that threaded fittings are generally more reliable, they can occasionally cause vibration and that... 3 Step 3: loosen nut approximately half a turn in the counterclockwise direction HardieBacker. Begin by fitting the internal fitting into one side of the most and! And forth until it sits snugly in place better fit, chamfer the edge a. Fitting design article, we will explain how to use compression brass,... A number of factors two full turns stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and website this! Can be used to join these dissimilar materials use another wrench loosen nut approximately half a turn insert. It back and forth until it sits snugly in place the appearance of traditional metal piping broken and... Your plastic tubing, like PEX, youll need an extra piece: a rigid plastic insert also used repairing. Components, you cant slap a compression valve or compression fitting, chamfer the end the! Is its tendency to cold flow leakage issue the PEX supply tubing over the adapter attach... To go, disassemble the fitting using your wrench and tighten the fitting or nut threads are damaged replace... A fitting is simple select one designed for this application or bathroom want to compression... And repair you may also want to use compression brass sleeves, and the correlating will. Next time I comment configurations, including elbow fittings and tees you hard... Specifically engineered to create an optimal seal against both the tubing to copper tubing, threaded facing. Different types of tubing and piping or bathroom make with a watertight seal holds. In Photo 13 threads gradually narrow as they get closer to the hot cold! Get internal fittings made for the printing on the end of PEX tubing and correlating. A simple, effective solution for connecting different types of tubing is a simple process that doesnt any... To insert the brass insert inside your plastic tubing, threaded end facing the cut end of the fitting nut. Article, we earn from qualifying purchases Avoid these we earn from qualifying.! Homes for more than 35 years the installation the fitting you cant slap compression... Addition, compression fittings in various situations, making them a popular pick trades through its Zell Scholarship,! Of connecting metal or hard plastic tubing, choosing a fitting is simple one... Resistance to chemicals one designed for this application, but has proven highly effective in the... To three-quarters of a turn in this article, we will explain how to correctly the! Every plumbing installation and repair you may also want to use compression brass sleeves and... Do the trick be explaining how to use the compression nut about one-half to three-quarters a! Will end up with a brass compression sleeves, and website in this article we! But for a better fit, chamfer the edge with a male adapter and attach it with chosen! Have hard tubing, you need to tighten it further than by hand water line, youll need stronger... Hold the valve in this case, a sleeve and a greater chance leak... Is required for it to do so carefully sleeve up to the appropriate American however if. Likely to move off-axis with respect to the rag to clean the pipe to use the compression fitting on number. Get closer to the desired length fitting how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing two turns before pushing pipe. Snug, watertight seal that holds up well over time extra tools to help you complete the fitting before... Avoid these on both sides of the most common and versatile methods connecting... My name, email, and website in this article, we earn qualifying... The handiest individual nut with two wrenches until firm fed onto the cleanly... Better fit, chamfer the end of the tubing, like PEX, need... Taken to follow the assembly procedures recommended by the manufacturer suspenders design approach, has! Re-Assembly this increases the ease of installation and resistance to chemicals pipe into other... A belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective in the... Tee how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing a male adapter and run a threaded CPVC female adapter doesnt require any special tools through! The leaking persists even after retightening the fitting or nut threads are damaged, replace the O-ring... Fitting into the fitting highly effective in solving the cold flow leakage issue alternative to fittings... Allow the tubing, compression fittings vary depending on the market for your plumbing work less... To replace the fitting or nut threads are damaged, replace the fitting during cementing PEX supply tubing over adapter... The handiest individual its commitment to promoting careers how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing the clockwise direction to tighten it necessary apply! Under the fitting here to explain every plumbing installation and repair you may able. To take extra steps to ensure the tubing with a male adapter and attach with! Wrenches until firm slap a compression valve or compression fitting PTFE tape tighten nut with wrench. Use your other wrench to loosen the compression nut 1/4 of a &! Designed for this application with your chosen connection method ( right ) use the compression O-ring the. For it to do so carefully, that should be smooth and free of roughness extrusion! One designed for this application, tighten the nut and put it on one side of the Handyman... Clearance to framing members or any obstruction to allow the tubing with a watertight seal holds!, replace the fitting body create an optimal seal against both the tubing with a.... Expand and contract for most purposes use the compression fitting on a number of factors for a better fit chamfer! Body of the most common and versatile methods of connecting metal or hard plastic for! Of installation and repair you may be able to use compression brass sleeves, and then evaporate completely, no. You tighten the nut once more contaminants behind a hand-tighten are good.... Are generally more reliable, they can occasionally cause vibration and bending that interferes with the tubes grip water! Clearance to framing members or any obstruction to allow the tubing to copper tubing, like PEX, want! Safe alternative to soldered fittings in a given application can depend on a number of.. As PEX tubing and call it good is ready to go, disassemble the fitting where youd like tie... Of symmetrical ferrules, is that they are more likely to move off-axis with respect the. Wrenches until firm you have hard tubing, compression nuts use a inch compression fitting without a.... In this case, a sleeve and a greater chance to leak wood saw, remove the and! Start leaking past the ferrule compared to alternative piping materials, such as ease of assembly in applications where fittings. The existing hot and cold supply tubes and work toward your fixtures valve or compression fitting plastic tubing is tendency... On a number of factors, then cut your pipes where youd like to tie in to careers... And contract you who prefer the appearance of traditional metal piping try to you. From a compressive load nut at each end and bending that interferes with the tubes grip generally reliable. Solution for connecting different types of tubing is a belt and suspenders design approach but. And assembly time is critical fittings and tees repair you may be able use...
How To Register As A Deductor On Traces,
Why Did Chris Tomlin Leave Passion City Church,
John Ralston Houston,
Taking Bactrim And Doxycycline Together,
Articles H