WORKING WITH

PLASTIC PIPES
 Measure the face-to-face distance of the fittings to be
connected. Add the engagement length before cutting the
pipe.
 Some plastic pipes can be cut with a sharp knife, but all
can be cut with hacksaw or handsaw. A rotary pipe cutter
should not in any manner be used in cutting plastic pipes.
 Be sure to cut pipe ends square or at right angle with the
axis of the pipe. Work on one joint at a time. Solvent is
very quick setting and unforgiving of mistakes. Once an
error is committed, the only remedy is to cut the pipe and
have it replaced.
 After cutting, remove the burrs inside the pipe, ream and
clean the end portion of the pipe until smooth to allow
full contact with the fitting shoulder. Clean the pipe end
with Methyl Ethyl Keton (MEK) or simply Acetone.
However, depending upon the type of plastic being used,
there are solvent that needs no cleaning of the pipe
before its application.
 Apply solvent cement liberally using non-synthetic brush
to the shoulder fitting and butt end of the pipe.
 Insert the pipe into the fitting and give it a quarter turn
or ¼ turn. The span of time from the cement application
to the quarter turning should not be more than 30
seconds.
 Do not disturb the pipe for several minutes after the
quarter turn, Wait for about 2 hours before testing the
line under pressure. Drying of the cement must be far
enough advance from 15 to 20 hours to permit use of
the line.
In the process of bending, plastic pipe is packed with
sand then heated using a flame torch or hot water. Apply
pressure gently and gradually when the pipe is soft and
ready for bending. Continue bending until the desired
curvature of the pipe is arrived at. A metal spring for
bending copper tube may be used to prevent flattering
of the pipe.
Correction or repair of lines may be done by cutting the
pipe at a reasonable distance away from the side of the
fitting then connect with coupling or socket.