Welding Copper Pipe Tools
A copper pipe is one of the most common materials used to distribute water throughout the home and copper pipes are typically joined to one another using flux and solder.
Welding copper pipe tools. Ideal for installing and repairing rigid copper plumbing in potable hot and cold water systems and gas applications can be used on all rigid copper and copper alloy pipes and copper and brass fittings up to 2 5 inches in diameter will not conduct electricity tensile strength in excess of 1000 psi holds 200 psi 7 minutes after bonding. Making sure that the pipe and fittings are clean is probably one of the most important things to do before you begin soldering copper pipe. This alloy generally has less than 0 02 oxygen. This high thermal conductivity is the reason why many craftsmen prefer soldering or brazing copper pipes rather than welding it.
You can find all the basic soldering copper pipe equipment at full service hardware stores or home centers a propane torch solder emery cloth photo 3 and flux. In the soldering process heat is applied to the copper joint where the pipe and fitting meet and the gap between the joint is filled with molten metal. Sand both ends of the pipe to about 1 2 an inch beyond the fitting. We also recommend a tube cutter flame protector cloth see opening photo and heavy gloves and eye protection.
Copper pipe is also environmentally friendly since it can be recycled. Personal protective equipment ppe helps keep welding operators free from injury such as burns the most common welding injury and exposure to arc rays. P deoxidized copper contains low amounts of oxygen but tends to have up to 0 05 phosphorus and 0 05 arsenic which can release fumes. Wear the gloves and goggles as well as a heavy long sleeve shirt.
Oxygen free copper will allow copper to retain the original bronze color after welding by preventing oxidation. Welding copper pipes can be tricky if not difficult due to the metal s excellent conductivity to heat. Avoid rolling up sleeves or pant cuffs as sparks or hot metal will deposit in the folds and may burn through the material. This guide will show you how to solder copper pipes to ensure there are no leaks in or around your home.
The instructions here are specific to copper pipe soldering which differs from the welding copper process. Iwiss iws 1632af plumbing copper pipe crimper press tube tools with 1 2 3 4 1 jaws suitable for viega copper only pro press elkhart conex pipe fittings 4 5 out of 5 stars 41 199 99 199.