Many homeowners don't attempt to solder pipes for fear of difficulty of the task that lies ahead. For them, it's best to leave this type of home improvement to the professionals who have a lot of experience. However, this task can fairly be accomplished by anyone using the right set of tools and just some practice. It's also a very useful skill to possess when it comes to home repair and remodeling. After getting the supplies, in this case pipes and fittings, tools are the next priority. Most, if not all, of these items can be easily found in any store that sells plumbing supplies. In addition, they are not expensive at all.
The first essential is a good torch. Simple propane torches are the cheapest in the market. A nozzle and valve are connected to small propane cylinder which is disposable. Another type that has a built-in lighter saves the hassle of using matches or spark strikers. This costs a bit more but is a reasonable investment. Torches with better quality work well with MAPP gas which tends to have hotter flames. This is beneficial for homeowners who are working pipes with large diameters and valves, which are considered heavier fittings.
The main purpose of soldering is to fill out any space, no matter how tiny, between fittings and pipes. Of course, this task is accomplished with the use of a liquid solder. Three main requirements exist for a perfect execution. These are clean joints, flux, and the right temperature.
Soldering can also be referred to as "sweating a pipe". This means that all the tiny spaces in between the fitting and pipe must be filled up with a liquid solder. The three main factors for success are: a clean joint, proper temperature and flux.
To start the soldering, limit the heat only to the solder and don't include the fitting. When the fitting is hot enough, it enables the solder to flow but don't make it too hot that the flux starts to smoke already. Ensure that the blue flame is about two inches from the fitting. You will hear a sizzling sound which indicates that you may already remove some of the solder from the roll. Bend the end part to a 45angle and use about an inch. V:5
The first essential is a good torch. Simple propane torches are the cheapest in the market. A nozzle and valve are connected to small propane cylinder which is disposable. Another type that has a built-in lighter saves the hassle of using matches or spark strikers. This costs a bit more but is a reasonable investment. Torches with better quality work well with MAPP gas which tends to have hotter flames. This is beneficial for homeowners who are working pipes with large diameters and valves, which are considered heavier fittings.
The main purpose of soldering is to fill out any space, no matter how tiny, between fittings and pipes. Of course, this task is accomplished with the use of a liquid solder. Three main requirements exist for a perfect execution. These are clean joints, flux, and the right temperature.
Soldering can also be referred to as "sweating a pipe". This means that all the tiny spaces in between the fitting and pipe must be filled up with a liquid solder. The three main factors for success are: a clean joint, proper temperature and flux.
To start the soldering, limit the heat only to the solder and don't include the fitting. When the fitting is hot enough, it enables the solder to flow but don't make it too hot that the flux starts to smoke already. Ensure that the blue flame is about two inches from the fitting. You will hear a sizzling sound which indicates that you may already remove some of the solder from the roll. Bend the end part to a 45angle and use about an inch. V:5
Comments
Post a Comment