Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes is quite simple and quick, but you need to have some knowledge on how to complete this procedure. Naturally, you should have at least a minimal understanding of the operation of the equipment that is used to connect the plastic.
What materials are needed to work?
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes is carried out using such materials and tools:
- a specific device, the power of which should not be lower than 1500 W (it is desirable that it can be connected to a conventional power outlet with a voltage of 220V);
- fastenings, thanks to which it will be possible to fix parts of plastic elements;
- hexagon and level;
- roulettes (for marking pipes);
- special scissors that are used to cut elements;
- contact thermometer;
- cotton napkins;
- hole pattern.
Preparation for work
Do-it-yourself welding of polypropylene pipes requires some preparation. For example, the apparatus by which the elements will be connected must be equipped with a special nozzle. She, in turn, must be well fixed. The device for welding polypropylene pipes (soldering iron) must be heated well and maintained at a stable temperature. It should fluctuate in the range of 250-270 degrees.
It is advisable to clean the places that will connect and warm up with a natural napkin. This action will prevent damage to the Teflon coating. In order for the joint to be well welded, it is desirable to carefully treat the edges of the parts of the pipe with a degreasing agent. Be sure to consider all the angles at which the elements should be cut so that the connection is as strong and accurate as possible.
Features of the work and some nuances of the action
If you will be welding polypropylene pipes, the instruction provides a certain sequence of actions:
- After basic preparation, mark the plastic. That is, with the help of a marker on the pipes you need to put marks on which you will cut them. Use roulette to do this. For cutting, you need to use a special locking structure.
- Next, take care of the evenness of the edges of the pipe elements. They should not have any cracks, burrs or other defects. Fine sandpaper can be used for this.
- To connect the elements you will need fittings. They need to be put on part of the pipe before heating. After that, the edges can be treated with a soldering iron. Further, the elements are simply connected together and soldered. Naturally, this must be done carefully so that the seams turn out to be high-quality and even.
There are certain features, due to which the welding of polypropylene pipes, carried out by one's own hands, requires special care and attention. For example, you should have spare parts that can be used instead of damaged ones. Before any work is done, all calculations must be done on paper. You may need to draw a pipe connection diagram.
It is advisable to observe all necessary precautions that will allow you to quickly do the job and not get hurt. The temperature to which the soldering iron heats up is very high, so you can be seriously injured if you handle the equipment carelessly. All actions are best done in a garage or other adapted room.