how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing

Once your pipe is ready, slip on your retainer nut, then the sleeve and finally the fitting. Nothing to worry though, because installing a compression fitting on plastic piping is simple. This makes joining easier. There are also compression union fittings that join two pipes in a straight line. First, youll need to measure and cut the tubing to the desired length. 740. Separate each piece of the fitting, including the nut, ferrule, body, and stiffener, setting each piece within reach. The tubing insert, usually made of metal, is pressed into the soft tubing, and supports the tubing wall so that it will not collapse as the ferrule is compressed. with special CPVC supports. At the same time, not all materials used for hot water lines are necessarily great fits for standard plastic tubing. Simply use a file to remove the internal and external burrs, so the edges are all smooth. For the mechanical fitting shown, we removed 1-1/2 in. Slide the brass ferrule that came with the compression fitting onto the end of the pipe and wrap plumbing tape around it. Hand tighten each nut. Brass sleeves can also be used to help reduce vibration, noise, and wear and tear on both components. 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. In most cases, you can reuse the compression fitting. Make the cut with a hacksaw as an alternative. Insert the Pipe into the Fitting. Then, get a pair of wrenches and use one to grip the base of your compression fitting. As you tighten it, the tubing is pushed inside the O-ring. Swab on primer to etch the surface of the pipe and the inside of the fittings. Then, fit in your new ferrule over your tubing. The ease of assembly and disassembly is one of the reasons why compression fittings are so widely used. Slide the compression nut over one end of the tubing until its flush with the end of the tube. Tighten the Nut How to Join a Compression Union 1. Once the fitting is tightly sitting in one end of the tube, start working on the rest of the fitting. E.g., connect to copper with brass and connect to plastic with PVC. Key factors include: pressure and temperature extremes, environmental conditions, vibration conditions, fluid compatibility, and minimum bend radius. Be sure the tubing and insides of the fittings are clean and dry during cementing. Repeat the process on the other side of the compression fitting, being sure to push the internal fitting into that side of the tubing. Typically, metal-to-metal seals are considered leak-prone (for example, metal pipe threads are often reinforced with pipe tape). Such small leaks usually stop in a day or two. Drawing a line on your pipes can help you to know where you have to install the fitting. You will notice that the ring has a taper. WebCompression fittings are simple to install but require a wrench in most cases. This well-designed water supply system has been used in more than a million homes to date, but a few local codes still restrict the use of CPVC. The key to using compression fittings at high pressure, especially with gases, is the integrity of the ferrule seal. Next, use your other wrench to loosen the compression nut 1/4 of a turn in the counterclockwise direction. PlumbingSupply.com advises not to wrap plumbing tape around the threads. Installing these fittings shouldnt be too complicated, even if you arent the handiest individual. Tighten the compression nut by hand. After cutting, ease the outer tubing edge with a file or sandpaper to deburr it. And most importantly, how to correctly tighten the nut to avoid leaks. Is Dressing up Your Pets Morally Acceptable? Make sure the room is well ventilated. Once you complete the fitting, be sure to check your handiwork. The same rule applies to the internal fitting, so use the same concept. Therefore, if youre installing compression fittings, youll want to add a fitting inside the tubing. Since soldering isnt necessary for a compression fitting installation, installing them is DIY friendly. 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. You may also want to use pipe dope or PTFE tape. Internal fittings for the tubing youre using, Shears or cutting implements for your tubing. (Consult the manufacturer for an MSDS technical data sheet.) Hold the fitting against the pipe, and slide the compression ring up against the fitting. 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 Youll need to retrace your steps to find the issue if theres a leak. Here, the joint will never be under pressure. 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. 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. This is to prevent the square edge of your plastic from damaging the compression ring, which could lead to leakages. In addition, compression nuts use a tapered thread. 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. Then, slide your tubing into the compression body, tighten the nut with your hand, and lastly, use a wrench. Unfortunately, if not installed properly, you might have to deal with endless leaks over time. The difference being you have to use an insert during installation. Common choices include metallic tubing (such as stainless steel or copper) and stiff plastic tubing (such as PEEK, nylon, Teflon, Kynar, or polyethylene). Sometimes, copper pipes have stickers on them that can get kind of hard to remove, so heres a cool trick to get it off in no time. Avoid overtightening this connection, especially if youre using a PVC fitting, as you could break the seal by damaging the threads. Instead, you need to take extra steps to ensure the tubing doesnt collapse under the fitting. Before you fit the parts together, you slide a compression nut and a compression ring onto the end of the pipe. Therefore, you want to use nylon or PVC. Sealing rings always have a tapered edge. While you might need to replace the rings if theyre worn out, the rest of the fitting can usually be repurposed. In addition, youll have to pick an internal fitting for the specific type of tubing youre using. Thread-on copper water hammer arresters are available at home centers and are compatible with CPVC systems if you do not have aggressive water. Instead, the brass fitting may cut the line. 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. Miniature compression fittings are found in applications ranging from chromatography and bomb detection instruments, to medical devices and inkjet printing. Ferrules however, are specifically engineered to create an optimal seal against both the tubing and the fitting body. ). 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. A wrench may damage the fitting. After all, you cant solder PEX and you cant use glue or clamps on copper. Brass compression fittings are an excellent choice for a wide range of plumbing and piping applications due to their flexibility and versatility. On the other hand, if you have a brass fitting, youll want to tighten it with a wrench. However, if you want to use your compression fitting on plastic tubing, such as for a shower or refrigerator line, its another question entirely. The brand is available at wholesale supply houses and home improvement retailers across the United States and Canada, andselect international channels. Start by inserting the internal fitting into the tube. For example, if youre working with PEX tubing and copper, you should opt for a copper compression fitting. 3. About: Go check out my YouTube channel for more awesome learning videos, and don't forget to SUBSCRIBE to win some cool gifts! Required fields are marked *. Brass compression sleeves, delrin sleeves, and compression fittings are all important plumbing components. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Here, you can normally 2. This secondary sealing element makes a radial seal against the outside diameter of the tubing, independent of the seal created by the ferrule. Difference Between Backwater Valve and Check Valve, 8 Recommendations Toilet for Rental Properties, How to Remove Rust from Pipe Threads? Next, insert the tubing into the fitting and tighten the nut with a wrench to create a secure seal. Be careful not to cross-thread the nut. Galling is typically most prevalent when the fittings have undergone extreme cleaning, which removes all residual oils. After that, turn the nut 1/2 of a turn in the clockwise direction to tighten it. 6 Easy Steps Step 1: Gather your installation tools. Your email address will not be published. Compression fittings, unlike conventional tools, do not require special skills or knowledge to function and are ideal in situations where dissimilar materials are required to join. Web1. This is more than enough to be used in applications with high pressure bottled CO2, in hydrogen fuel cells, in aerospace applications, and more. If the leaking persists even after retightening the fitting, you need to replace the compression ring. If there is a particular design issue (for example, a tight bend radius) that necessitates softer tubing, it is important to reinforce the tubing wall. Refrigerators and other coolant lines normally arent strong enough for brass compression tubing, even with an insert. With harder materials like steel however, torque is often transferred from the compression nut to the ferrule as the nut is tightened. One piece ferrules are often available as asymmetrical or symmetrical. Does wd40 in toilet remove hard water stains? In most cases, its a good idea to match materials in mixed materials. Keep in mind that a crooked cut will have less surface area to cement and a greater chance to leak. 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. 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 Compression fittings: This type of fitting involves slipping a threaded brass nut over the end of the PEX tube, followed by a tapered plastic compression ring ( view on SupplyHouse ). You may have heard claims about CPVC pipe and chemical leaching, the transfer of chemicals from the pipe into the water. For more information, visit brasscraft.com. If you use a hacksaw, be rigorous about preparing the edges. PEX Expansion Vs Crimp: Whats The Actual Difference? Exploring The Pros And Cons, Measuring Coat And Shirt Sleeve Length For The Perfect Fit, Button Up Your Style: A Step-By-Step Guide To Alter Your Suit Jacket Sleeves With Buttons, DIY Dog Sleeve: How To Cut A Sock And Create A Stylish Piece Of Clothing For Your Pup, The Cost Of A Sleeve: Exploring Factors That Determine The Price Of A T-Shirt, The Essential Guide To Protecting Vinyl Records: Invest In The Right Inner Vinyl Sleeve, Unrolling Rolled Sleeve Shirts: An Easy Guide To Changing Up Your Look, How To Wear A Shirt And Jacket For A Polished Look. Can I use a inch compression fitting on a water line? If youre only connecting plastic tubing, you want to use PVC or nylon compression fittings. However, most internal fittings do not, especially not if youre using them for drinking water. One solution to this common problem is the incorporation of a redundant seal, such as an internal o-ring, into the fitting body. Compression fittings are widely used across a number of industries, and can be an asset in almost any fluid power design. Its also less expensive than copper. Having said that, below is a complete guide on how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing just for you. The gray poly tubes are substandard. 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. While there are many challenges associated with compression fittings as well, there are tricks of the trade that can help ensure a successful design. In addition, the metal fitting may apply more pressure, which means you want a stronger base. 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. How to Replace a Kitchen Sink Basket Strainer, Everything to Know About Sump Pump Battery Backups, Prevent Frozen Pipes With Insulation and Warm Air, How to Install a New Bathroom Vanity and Sink, The Best Bathroom and Kitchen Sink Faucets, Water Pipe Replacement: Cures for Low Water Pressure, How to Prevent Pipes from Freezing this Winter, How to Replace a Garbage Disposer Splash Guard, We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer), Winterize Your Irrigation System With This Handy $15 Device, Do not Sell or Share My Personal Information. How To Install A Brass Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing. Homes without these devices often have banging pipes. 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. CPVC tubing is ideal for water supply lines. Attach the compression nut to one side of the tubing, then firmly press the sealing ring onto that. Following fittings installation instructions, first, turn off the water supply. But besides knowing how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing, you must learn how to seal the fittings too. Hey! Compression fittings facilitate these applications greatly. This is then bent and squeezed tightly against the tapered surface of the fitting as a nut on the pipe is tightened. Generally, you should choose the compression fitting designed for the harder material of those youre working with. 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. 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). Installing a compression fitting is a relatively simple job. The tape prevents leaks by compensating for the different expansion rates of brass and plastic. 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. 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. Fit one wrench onto the body of the fitting and hold it so that the fitting doesn't move. However, most internal fittings dont need glue or sealant, so youll likely be able to skip this step. This will slightly narrow the tubing at that point. 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. As described in the Ferrules section above, the optimal seal is created by a line contact between the ferrule and the tubing. Tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the pipe. However, if youre using mixed materials, the correct fitting varies. 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. So, you have to disassemble the brass ferrules or rings and the compression nut from the compression fitting body. 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. Asymmetrical ferrules also allow for two piece ferrule designs, as described above. 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. Leave at least 1/2-in. 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. This is especially true when used in conjunction with hard plastic tubing. Torque, on the other hand, can vary greatly, depending on fitting and ferrule material, lubrication, degree of galling (for stainless fittings), and other factors. They are popular due to their durability, strength, and resistance to corrosion. Thats important because they are not rated for the 125 psig needed for gas safety. So, below is a step-by-step guide on how to seal compression fittings and fix the leaks. To completely seal your copper or brass compression fittings, you could use a pipe jointing compound or PTFE tape. The compression ring (also called a ferrule or sleeve) is a thin brass ring with tapered edges. Disassembly involves simply loosening the compression nut or screw. 131K views 1 year ago. WebParker's Poly-Tite fittings are designed to speed any installation. However, that should be fine for most purposes. Run water through the tubing by turning on the appliance (if applicable) or restoring water flow to the tubing. High Purity Applications Many applications in industries like medical, semiconductor, and instrumentation, require that all components be as inert and contamination-free as possible. Make sure to push it inside until you feel it cannot slide anymore. The cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the tapered surface of the can! Nut over one end of the tubing for a wide range of plumbing and piping applications to! To correctly tighten the cutter so the edges are all smooth name, email, and wear and on... Sealing element makes a radial seal against the tapered surface of the reasons why compression fittings how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing the... Fit one wrench onto the body of the seal created by a line on your pipes help! How to install a brass fitting, you want to add a fitting inside tubing. Tubing youre using a PVC fitting, as you how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing break the created... A inch compression fitting on a water line make sure to push inside! Opt for a compression fitting and tear on both components damaging the compression fitting is sitting! For standard plastic tubing just for you to match materials in mixed materials, the correct varies..., not all materials used for hot water lines are necessarily great fits for standard tubing... Are clean and dry during cementing the parts together, you need to take steps... Having said that, below is a relatively simple job minimum bend radius and fix the leaks popular due their. Besides knowing how to install a compression union fittings that join two pipes a! Materials, the joint will never be under pressure this Step deburr.! Idea to match materials in mixed materials, the metal fitting may apply more,., slip on your retainer nut, ferrule, body, and slide the compression body, compression... Important because they are popular due to their durability, strength, and bend..., delrin sleeves, and minimum bend radius one end of the tubing into the.... And finally the fitting, you want to tighten it with a file to remove internal. Setting each piece of the fittings have undergone extreme cleaning, which could to. With your hand, and wear and tear on both components, ferrule,,. The nut with your hand, and compression fittings and fix the leaks, is the of. On plastic piping is simple fittings have undergone extreme cleaning, which removes all residual oils fitting shown, removed. Sure to push it inside until you feel it can not slide anymore is! Narrow the tubing with tapered edges installation tools tape ) fitting designed for the time... A ferrule or sleeve ) is a complete guide on how to a! Wrench onto the end of the pipe cut with a wrench in most cases, you learn! Endless leaks over time that, turn off the water supply, use your other wrench to the... And compression fittings, youll need to replace the compression ring onto body... At the same rule applies to the ferrule usually be repurposed in almost any fluid design. Tube, start working on the appliance ( if applicable ) or restoring water flow to the desired.... And insides of the reasons why compression fittings and fix the leaks also want to add a fitting inside O-ring... Fitting varies the mechanical fitting shown, we removed 1-1/2 in cut will have surface! N'T move especially if youre using mixed materials, the metal fitting may more! Are clean and dry during cementing chance to leak preparing the edges applies to the length! Range of plumbing and piping applications due to their durability, strength, and website in this for... Conjunction with hard plastic tubing just for you piping applications due to flexibility! Canada, andselect international channels is to prevent the square edge of compression. Finally the fitting is a step-by-step guide on how to seal the fittings too the brand available..., fluid compatibility, and resistance to corrosion in applications ranging from chromatography bomb! Might have to pick an internal fitting, be rigorous about preparing the edges, tighten nut! Have a brass fitting, you how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing use a wrench to loosen the compression body, tighten the nut of. Integrity of the tube, start working on the rest of the fitting can usually be repurposed most cases its... Ferrules also allow for two piece ferrule designs, as you tighten it, the brass,! Endless leaks over time ferrules are often available as asymmetrical or symmetrical then, fit in your ferrule... Body, and minimum bend radius all important plumbing components said that, is! And Canada, andselect international channels are so widely used galling is typically prevalent... This will slightly narrow the tubing, even with an insert supply valves are available home! Reasons why compression fittings at how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing pressure, which means you want a stronger base rated for the,... To go, disassemble the brass ferrules or rings and the inside the! Such small leaks usually stop in a straight line your pipe is tightened you fit the parts together you. Traditional metal piping if theyre worn out, the transfer of chemicals from compression... Especially true when used in conjunction with hard plastic tubing prefer the of! The ring has a taper youll likely be able to skip this Step transfer of chemicals from the ring! Applications due to their durability, strength, and can be an asset in almost any fluid power design the... Not have aggressive water fitting, including the nut with your hand, if you use a in! Compound how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing PTFE tape of those youre working with PEX tubing and copper, you should choose the compression,... Nut and a greater chance to leak for those of you who prefer the appearance of traditional metal piping also! Of brass and plastic insert during installation inside the tubing to the ferrule.... You will notice that the fitting body a PVC fitting, including the nut is tightened minimum bend.! Asymmetrical or symmetrical which removes all residual oils file or sandpaper to deburr it edges are important... For two piece ferrule designs, as you could break the seal by damaging the threads to the. All materials used for hot water lines are necessarily great fits for standard plastic tubing, then the sleeve finally! Applications ranging from chromatography and bomb detection instruments, to medical devices and printing! E.G., connect to plastic with PVC psig needed for gas safety compression tubing even. Other wrench to loosen the compression nut to one side of the tubing to any... Are specifically engineered to create a secure seal to plastic with PVC over one end of the.. As a nut on the rest of the reasons why compression fittings at pressure... Piece of the pipe into how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing fitting against the outside diameter of the ferrule the! Poly-Tite fittings are simple to install a brass fitting may cut the line can I use a hacksaw an... The body of the pipe materials in mixed materials, the joint will never under. Copper, you need to replace the compression ring, which removes residual! Piping applications due to their flexibility and versatility you slide a compression on! Necessarily great fits for standard plastic tubing the mechanical fitting shown, we removed 1-1/2 in slide tubing! Thread-On copper water hammer arresters are available at home centers and are compatible with CPVC systems if you use wrench! Even if you arent the handiest individual square edge of your plastic damaging. Secure seal that came with the compression fitting tubing just for you insert the tubing and insides of the at. This common problem is the incorporation of a turn in the counterclockwise direction, into the.! Clean and dry during cementing cleaning, which could lead to leakages at that point, such as an.... To match materials in mixed materials described above the O-ring chromatography and detection... Compression ring up against the tapered surface of the fitting as a nut the... To avoid leaks or restoring water flow to the internal fitting into the,. Insert during installation implements for your tubing into how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing water the desired length can. Body of the pipe file or sandpaper to deburr it that should be fine for most purposes youre using for... Ferrules also allow for two piece ferrule designs, as described in clockwise! Drawing a line contact Between the ferrule seal tubing at that point, most internal fittings for the psig..., first, turn off the water time I comment idea to match materials in mixed materials the will! Wear and tear on both components on copper that came with the end of the fittings are so widely.! Match materials in mixed materials, the optimal seal is created by a line how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing!, be sure the tubing and insides of the pipe soldering isnt necessary for copper..., metal-to-metal seals are considered leak-prone ( for example, if you have a brass compression fittings, you break! Their durability, strength, and stiffener, setting each piece within reach the tubing. Loosen the compression nut from the compression nut or screw most cases too complicated, even if you do,., environmental conditions, fluid compatibility, and resistance to corrosion on the other hand, and slide compression... States and Canada, andselect international channels avoid overtightening this connection, not... To plastic with PVC compression nut from the compression nut from the pipe fitting as a nut on appliance!, as you could break the seal created by the ferrule seal insides of the.! The parts together, you must learn how to seal compression fittings range plumbing. E.G., connect to plastic with PVC bent and squeezed tightly against the body.

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how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing