Joining plastic water pipes can be achieved through various methods, but one common approach, particularly when using fittings, involves compression. Based on the provided information, a key technique utilizes compression fittings with specific components designed for plastic pipes.
Using Compression Fittings for Plastic Pipes
Compression fittings offer a way to create a secure, watertight connection without the need for heat or solvent. When joining plastic pipes using this method, the process typically involves the fitting, an olive (or ferrule), and a pipe support (also known as an insert or stiffener).
The Compression Process
The mechanism involves compressing the fitting's components onto the pipe to create a seal. According to the reference:
- The fitting is tightened, which causes the olive to compress.
- This compression occurs onto the plastic pipe.
- Crucially, the olive is also compressed onto the pipe support (insert).
This combined compression against both the outer wall of the plastic pipe and the inner surface of the pipe support is essential. As stated in the reference, "As you can see what what it's actually done is compress the olive onto the plastic pipe. And onto the pipe support that way when it's in there it creates a nice water Tight Seal."
By compressing the olive onto the plastic pipe and the internal pipe support, the fitting forms a reliable and watertight seal, making it a viable method for joining plastic water pipes.
Key Components
When using compression fittings for plastic pipes, ensure you have the correct components:
- Compression Body: The main part of the fitting (e.g., coupling, elbow, tee).
- Nut: Screws onto the body to compress the olive.
- Olive: A ring (usually brass or plastic) that deforms and compresses onto the pipe.
- Pipe Support (Insert): A small tube inserted into the end of the plastic pipe to prevent it from collapsing under the pressure of the compressed olive and fitting.
It is critical to use a pipe support/insert whenever using standard compression fittings on plastic pipe to ensure the integrity of the seal and prevent pipe deformation.
