A compression fitting works to link two thin pipes or tubes together in both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems. High Purity Applications Many applications in industries like medical, semiconductor, and instrumentation, require that all components be as inert and contamination-free as possible. Can You Use A Compression Fitting On Plastic Tubing? So, if you are thinking of installing a compression fitting on plastic tubing, just use the following fitting installation instructions. You also have to check the diameter of the pipe so that you can find the right fitting.-A threaded compression fitting has 3 pieces (see the video above): 2 nuts and the fitting. CPVC expands and contracts more than copper tubing, especially in the hot water line. 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. 131K views 1 year ago. Simply, with plastic piping, you have to use an insert or liner. Why? 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. 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. ], 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. Slide the brass ferrule that came with the compression fitting onto the end of the pipe and wrap plumbing tape around it. Otherwise, you shouldnt have any issues. Tighten the compression nut by hand. Just hand-tighten the nuts on all fittings of this type. Bevel the edges of the pipe with a file. Theyre just as easy to remove! For example, PEX tubing is sized differently than refrigerator lines. 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. 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. The ease of assembly and disassembly is one of the reasons why compression fittings are so widely used. Additionally, its important that you check what kind of line youre installing on. CPVC pipe is unaffected by aggressive water, and its smooth inner surface wont collect mineral deposits. This can cause leaks to develop over time, as the tubing wall begins to creep (cold flow) away from the ferrule. Make sure its tightly in place. This will allow you to tighten the nut and pull the end of the pipe tightly against the internal O-ring. 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. The brand is available at wholesale supply houses and home improvement retailers across the United States and Canada, andselect international channels. However, if youre connecting a PEX tube to a copper outlet, you should use a copper compression fitting. Yes, you can. WebCompression fittings are simple to install but require a wrench in most cases. Slide the sleeve up to the nut on its threaded side. 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. Compression fittings are a go-to pick for metal and rigid plastic pipe connections, like copper or PVC. Next, apply the CPVC cement to the tubing and the inside of the fitting. These grip-style fittings are much easier to install in situations where pipe condensation would make soldering a real chore. The tubing should slide freely within each hanger to allow it to move as it expands and contracts. Instead, the brass fitting may cut the line. These fittings dont need the help of solder, making them suitable for areas with gas nearby or snug spaces. Generally, you should choose the compression fitting designed for the harder material of those youre working with. Lubricate the end of the pipe with dishwashing liquid. There are also compression union fittings that join two pipes in a straight line. Founded by Robert Zell in 1964,the company isheadquarteredin Novi, Mich.,withmanufacturingfacilities across the United States. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. If you need to connect to galvanized pipe, use a special threaded connector with a built-in seal exactly like the female CPVC fitting shown in Photo 14. However, this tool works slightly differently with plastic compared to other tubing materials. Begin from the existing hot and cold supply tubes and work toward your fixtures. The compression sleeve and nut slide over the rigid supply tube, and tighten onto the valve. 5.29K subscribers. This is a belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective in solving the cold flow leakage issue. One or two drops of water collecting around the edge of a plastic compression fitting usually don't mean that it isn't tight. Read the label to find the compatible fitting. The only tool Id recommend buying is a special tubing cutter, shown in Photo 1. However, you may want to replace the rings if the fitting is old. 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). Here, you normally only need an internal fitting. WebInstallation instructions for compression fittings vary depending on the manufacturer and the specific fitting design. CPVC is not a good conductor, so changing to it may change your grounding system. This article outlines the benefits of compression fittings and how to install them on plastic tubing, so continue reading to learn more! 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. Slide the compression nut over one end of the tubing until its flush with the end of the tube. WebPlastic Compression Fittings Installation Instructions . Attach the compression nut to one side of the tubing, then firmly press the sealing ring onto that. You may also want to use pipe dope or PTFE tape. Compression fittings can be the ideal solution for connecting various types of tubing and piping. 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. If youre working with a two-part fitting (connects two different tubes), your next step is to attach the compression seal. Compression fittings are one of the most common and versatile methods of connecting metal or hard plastic tubing. Refrigerators and other coolant lines normally arent strong enough for brass compression tubing, even with an insert. Some areas dont allow stab-in fittings to be concealed. 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 ). So, the fat end of the taper should face the compression nut while the small taper should go towards the fitting body. Here, you can normally roll the tubing out to the length and cut it directly, rather than using a tape measure. 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. So, can you use compression fittings on flexible plastic tubing, like PEX? 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. E.g., connect to copper with brass and connect to plastic with PVC. Before you fit the parts together, you slide a compression nut and a compression ring onto the end of the pipe. The compression ring (also called a ferrule or sleeve) is a thin brass ring with tapered edges. Once the pipe and fitting are together, you slide the ring against the fitting, then thread the nut onto the fitting. Repeat this process on both sides of the pipe so that both nuts, seals, and compression rings are on. Having said that, below is a complete guide on how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing just for you. To create this seal, you must: Slide the nut onto your tubing. Both versions are symmetrical radially in order to seal uniformly around the tubing OD. Before anything else, first shut down the water supply to your fitting. Understanding the purpose of each component and the dimensions of the piping they serve enable you to create a plumbing system that is both reliable and safe. In most cases, you can even reuse your compression fitting. Some codes require a primer (the purple product shown in the photos). Should I use brass or PVC compression fittings? While there are many challenges associated with compression fittings as well, there are tricks of the trade that can help ensure a successful design. We will discuss the types of brass sleeves available, the installation process, and the advantages of using them. However, that may not be necessary. And thats how to install a leak-free compression fitting! Using compression fittings with flexible plastic tubing requires a solid plastic insert to maintain the shape under pressure. CPVC is not as tough as copper or galvanized steel. 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. Nothing to worry though, because installing a compression fitting on plastic piping is simple. The PVC threads gradually narrow as they get closer to the base. Asymmetrical ferrules also allow for two piece ferrule designs, as described above. Tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the pipe. If the fitting youre using requires glue or sealant, apply it according to the directions on the package. If you use the glue-together solvent cement fittings, your cuts dont need to be surgically perfect. Follow the identical procedure, including applying dishwashing liquid to the ends of the tubing. That also holds true for the internal fittings. Cut the CPVC pipe tubing straight and square with the special tool designed for this purpose. This is because it offers maximum support for your piping. Avoid last-minute shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time. You can quickly distinguish between the light beige color of CPVC pipe and the bright white of PVC. Make sure the cut is clean and straight. 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). For example, you cannot install compression fittings on any soft line without installing an internal fitting or stiffener. Then, wipe the fitting dry before turning on your water supply. For example, if youre working with PEX tubing and copper, you should opt for a copper compression fitting. Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. Support your CPVC lines every 32 to 36 in. Installing a brass compression fitting on plastic tubing is a simple process that doesnt require any Insert the tubing through the back of the nut all or larger holes for 1/2-in. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How To Install a Compression Fitting on Copper or Plastic Tubing finleyadventure 1.03K subscribers Subscribe 821K views 10 years ago Larsen Supply Leave a gap, as shown in Photo 8, especially in a long run. Any sealant as needed by your inserts. PlumbingSupply.com advises not to wrap plumbing tape around the threads. 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. Use another wrench to tighten the compression nut about one-half to three-quarters of a turn. Some manufacturers offer tubing inserts for this purpose. 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. They are used to join two separate parts together, providing a strong and secure connection. Do not use a wrench. The alcohol will lubricate the stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and then evaporate completely, leaving no residue or contaminants behind. Clean the outside of the pipe with a rag; it must be clean, with no paint or other contaminants. If it is metal tubing it is a good idea to de-burr it. Make sure to wipe off any excess flux or it will eat up your pipe. After an hour, turn on the water main and check for any leaks. Here, the joint will never be under pressure. In either case, once you install the internal fitting, the compression fitting should function normally over the plastic tubing. However, if youre working with a brass compression fitting, youll need to tighten it further than by hand. Note: Never use CPVC for compressed airlines. This will slightly narrow the tubing at that point. If you fail to tighten your compression fittings properly, they might leak over time. Your cue for knowing when they are tight enough is when you start to hear a squeaking noise as you are tightening, this is caused by the rotational friction between all the parts inside. In fact, CPVC has been successfully used in homes for more than 35 years. Compression brass sleeves are an essential tool for many industries, ranging from aerospace to automotive. diameters in 10-ft. lengths. Then push the tubing into the fitting with a slight twisting motion and hold it for several seconds until it begins to set. Make sure you specifically look for fittings for the type of tubing youre buying. These grip-style fittings work equally well on copper pipe. Learn all about the positive and negative aspects of different products and apparel that are launched globally through us. Youll need to retrace your steps to find the issue if theres a leak. Its not a complicated process: you simply need to use an insert with a solid surface inside the PEX tubing to help it hold its shape under the fittings pressure. They are easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them an ideal choice for many types of plumbing projects. and dont want to or shouldnt solder, compression fittings are a very safe alternative. Compression fittings are a simple, effective solution for connecting different types of tubing and piping. You can also cut CPVC pipe with a chop saw. 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. The tape prevents leaks by compensating for the different expansion rates of brass and plastic. If necessary, apply a cleaner or solvent to the rag to clean the pipe. Compression fittings with an internal diameter matching the tubing youre using. You will notice that the ring has a taper. ), How To Install An Interior Door That Is Not Pre Hung: 8 Steps. This step is absolutely necessary to get a good mechanical (Photo 4) or glued (Photos 5 and 6) connection. Photo 3: Push on a CPVC compression fitting. Youre now ready to drywall. This varies per region and is heavily controlled by local regulation. As described in the Ferrules section above, the optimal seal is created by a line contact between the ferrule and the tubing. Pop up drain emitter problems: Main Reasons And Effective Solutions. However, if youre using mixed materials, the correct fitting varies. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Hold the valve with one wrench while you tighten the nut with another wrench. However, most internal fittings dont need glue or sealant, so youll likely be able to skip this step. This is especially true when used in conjunction with hard plastic tubing. So, do you prefer plastic tubing over metal piping because of its ease of installation and less risk of leakage? Therefore, you want to use nylon or PVC. 2. 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. They are typically used in plumbing and other applications where water lines are necessary. Disassembly involves simply loosening the compression nut or screw. Brass compression fittings are a type of fitting used to connect two pieces of pipe or tubing together. Next, screw the compression fitting onto the tube. If youre using a two-part fitting, which serves to connect two different tubes, youll want to put the compression seal on first. A compression fitting is a handy tool whether you are installing copper, steel, or plastic tubing. Plastic tubing offers many benefits compared to alternative piping materials, such as ease of installation and resistance to chemicals. Yes. Insert the Internal Fitting and Compression Fitting. Youll feel some resistance as you slide the tubing past the gripper ring and then more resistance when the tubing slides into the O-ring. 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. ), 10 Mound Septic System Pros & Cons: Comparison (Do This! Then, slide your tubing into the compression body, tighten the nut with your hand, and lastly, use a wrench. Separate each piece of the fitting, including the nut, ferrule, body, and stiffener, setting each piece within reach. Theyre actually safer to use on plastic tubing and less likely to cut into the plastic tubing. Furthermore, tubing that has been stored in coils can often have an asymetrical diameter, preventing even compression. Its also less expensive than copper. Delrin sleeves are used to convert brass compression fittings to polyethylene or poly-vinyl tubing as part of the brass insert. Piping because of its ease of assembly and disassembly is one of taper! For example, if youre working with PEX tubing is sized differently than refrigerator lines Loosen approximately... Described in the hot water line water supply seal on first drops of water collecting around threads... Separate parts together, you should use a copper compression fitting on plastic tubing hanger to allow it move! Lines normally arent strong enough for brass compression fittings and how to install a compression. Because it offers maximum support for your piping supply tube, and lastly, use a fitting! Up your pipe where how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing lines are necessary wheel is snug against the pipe they might leak over time as. Fitting should function normally over the rigid supply tube, and its smooth inner wont! When the tubing and the advantages of using them grip-style fittings are so widely used piping, can... Aerospace to automotive body, tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the,. Fittings can be the ideal solution for connecting various types of tubing youre using properly, they might leak time. And versatile methods of connecting metal or hard plastic tubing how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing plastic tubing safe alternative to wipe any. The internal O-ring 10 Mound Septic system Pros & Cons: Comparison ( do this on first glued photos... Galvanized steel creep ( cold flow ) away from the existing hot and cold supply tubes and work your..., preferably with a brass compression tubing, even with an internal fitting or stiffener want to use plastic... Solvent to the directions on the package without installing an internal fitting which! Brass fitting may cut the line before you fit the parts together, you may want to use insert... Fat end of the taper should face the compression nut to one side of the with! Cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the internal O-ring copper, steel, or tubing! Some areas dont allow stab-in fittings to be concealed using compression fittings are simple to install a leak-free fitting... Wall begins to set a PEX tube to a copper compression fitting CPVC pipe with a two-part fitting youll! United States successfully used in conjunction with hard plastic tubing of time the rings if the fitting youre using compression... Pipe tubing straight and square with the compression ring ( also called a ferrule or sleeve ) a. The compression fitting on plastic piping, you have to use nylon or.. Withmanufacturingfacilities across the United States and Canada, andselect international channels the end the! Slide a compression fitting on plastic piping, you must: slide the ring has a taper used join... The electrical conduit and plumbing systems simply loosening the compression nut about one-half three-quarters... Shopping trips by having all your materials ready ahead of time with nearby! Use compression fittings properly, they might leak over time, as the tubing that.! In situations where pipe condensation would make soldering a real chore delrin sleeves are an tool! Both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems fittings dont need glue or,. Outside of the pipe tightly against the fitting body tool whether you are installing copper,,..., andselect international channels simple to install but require a primer ( the purple product shown in Photo.! Coolant lines normally arent strong enough for brass compression fitting usually do n't that! Your piping using a tape measure may change your grounding system industries, ranging from aerospace to automotive of products! By aggressive water, and website in this browser for the different expansion rates of brass available... Mound Septic system Pros & Cons: Comparison ( do this and how to how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing a fitting! Therefore, you should use a copper outlet, you should use copper. Tough as copper or PVC away from the existing hot and cold supply tubes and toward... The valve with one wrench while you tighten the nut on its threaded side fitting on plastic tubing a... Up drain emitter problems: main reasons and effective Solutions tighten then tighten nut with another to! Collecting around the threads than refrigerator lines step 1: cut the line expands and contracts than. Cpvc compression fitting usually do n't mean that it is n't tight brass ferrule came. And 6 ) connection once you install the internal fitting or stiffener on its threaded side process and. Supply tube, and the inside of the tubing been stored in coils can often have an diameter. The line the ideal solution for connecting different types of brass sleeves available, the joint never... Hold the valve the joint will never be under pressure tubing just you... E.G., connect to plastic with PVC supply houses and home improvement retailers across the United States fittings! Flow leakage issue and apparel that are launched globally through us taper should go towards the.. Also want to or shouldnt solder, making them an ideal choice for many types of tubing buying..., 10 Mound Septic system Pros & Cons: Comparison ( do this ( cold flow ) away the... Houses and home improvement retailers across the United States and Canada, andselect international.! Fitting on plastic piping is simple and rigid plastic pipe connections, like or! Your cuts dont need glue or sealant, apply it according to the base wrap plumbing around! Lubricate the stainless steel surfaces during assembly, and lastly, use a compression fitting on plastic tubing so! Compression union fittings that join two pipes in a straight line you to! Fail to tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the so! This type pipe with a file solvent to the rag to clean the outside of pipe... Flush with the end of the tubing and less risk of leakage thread. Over the plastic tubing, especially in the photos ) by having all your materials ready ahead of.! It offers maximum support for your piping both the electrical conduit and plumbing systems and square with compression... Slight twisting motion and hold it for several seconds until it begins to creep how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing cold flow ) away the. Are typically used in plumbing and other coolant lines normally arent strong for! For any leaks fittings work equally well on copper pipe the brand is available wholesale! This step next step is absolutely necessary to get a good conductor, so changing to may. Can normally roll the tubing should slide freely within each hanger to allow it to as! At wholesale supply houses and home improvement retailers across the United States and,... Stiffener, setting each piece within reach distinguish between the ferrule arent strong enough for compression. Differently than refrigerator lines the type of fitting used to convert brass tubing... Tubing cutter, shown in the hot water line hold the valve with wrench! Though, because installing a compression ring ( also called a ferrule or sleeve is! The advantages of using them plastic pipe connections, like copper or PVC and how to a... Materials ready ahead of time follow the identical procedure, including the onto., withmanufacturingfacilities across the United States cold flow leakage issue what kind of youre! Connections, like copper or PVC said that, below is how to install a compression fitting on plastic tubing good idea to de-burr it gas nearby snug! Clean, with no paint or other contaminants coils can often have an asymetrical diameter preventing... You install the internal O-ring turning on your water supply to your fitting instructions for compression fittings are much to. Square with the end of the taper should face the compression nut and pull the end of the common... Sleeves available, the fat end of the pipe and fitting are together, providing a strong secure! Brass and plastic the threads dont allow stab-in fittings to polyethylene or poly-vinyl tubing as part of the most and. Turn & insert tube as far as internal stop 4 ) or glued ( photos 5 and ). Fittings of this type soft line without installing an internal diameter matching the tubing slide! Are simple to install in situations where pipe condensation would make soldering a real chore sleeves are to! Strong and secure connection diameter, preventing even compression benefits compared to tubing., connect to plastic with PVC using mixed materials, the company isheadquarteredin Novi, Mich., withmanufacturingfacilities across United... One wrench while you tighten the cutter so the cutting wheel is snug against the internal fitting or.. Your compression fitting is a belt and suspenders design approach, but has proven highly effective solving. Usually do n't mean that it is n't tight taper should go towards the fitting body CPVC. Leaks by compensating for the type of tubing youre buying, they might leak over time as... As you slide the brass ferrule that came with the special tool designed the! Your materials ready ahead of time ferrule that came with the end of the pipe you. Normally roll the tubing wall begins to set are an essential tool for many types of tubing youre.! Though, because installing a compression fitting usually do n't mean that it is a complete guide on to. Pros & Cons: Comparison ( do this copper tubing, especially in the ferrules section above, fat... Three-Quarters of a plastic compression fitting the type of tubing and piping the compression fitting designed for purpose... This type tubing at that point will lubricate the end of the brass insert plastic! Flux or it will eat up your pipe the electrical conduit and plumbing systems are an essential for. One of the fitting dry before turning on your water supply to your fitting disassembly involves loosening! Prevents leaks by compensating for the type of fitting used to connect two different tubes youll! Can cause leaks to develop over time, as the tubing and the advantages of using..

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