View Full Version : Using commpresion fittings
Speckul8r
May 25, 2009, 04:28 PM
My 30 year old plumbing is developing pin hole leaks in the copper pipes from the acids in the water. I've been repairing them using compression fittings but the pipe cutters (spin type) leave an outside ridge from where the metal is displaced from the cutting wheel. This makes sliding the close tolerance ferrel onto the pipe very difficult. Sometimes I have been able to smooth it down using abrasive paper but that can be extremely time consuming in confined quarters. I need some suggestions on how to get rid of that ridge.
speedball1
May 25, 2009, 05:40 PM
My 30 year old plumbing is developing pin hole leaks in the copper pipes from the acids in the water. I've been repairing them using compression fittings but the pipe cutters (spin type) leave an outside ridge from where the metal is displaced from the cutting wheel. This makes sliding the close tolerance ferrel onto the pipe very difficult. Sometimes I have been able to smooth it down using abrasive paper but that can be extremely time consuming in confined quarters. I need some suggestions on how to get rid of that ridge.
Replace the cutter wheel and use less pressure when using the cutters. You're bearing down too hard. Purchase a roll off plumbers sand cloth and shine up the edge before you slip on a ferule. Good luck, Tom
creahands
May 25, 2009, 05:40 PM
The pipe cutter is dull or u are trying to cut too fast.
Chuck
Sorry Tom
We posted same time.
Chuck
No problem Chuck! Great minds always think alike.
Milo Dolezal
May 25, 2009, 05:45 PM
It is a common problem of young and/or beginning plumbers who want to cut pipe on two revolutions. Tom said it: tighten cutting wheel slower than you are now. Spin more times around. Also, and of course, use sharp wheel.
Use small, compact cutter like this one:
KISS
May 25, 2009, 06:13 PM
If you buy the cutter from a plumbing supply house, they will stock the cutting wheels. There is the normal cutter and one for close quarters.
hkstroud
May 25, 2009, 09:38 PM
If you are repeatedly having pin hole leaks you should consider replacing all of your piping. Leaks will continue to develop and one day you may come home to a flooded house.
afaroo
May 25, 2009, 10:00 PM
I agree with all of the above but why don't you use the sharkbite fittings instead of compression fittings open the link below, Thanks.
John
YouTube - Sharkbite Compression Fitting / Disconnect Clip (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iVQkUSSvPO8)
Welcome To Cash Acme (http://www.cashacme.com/prod_sharkbite.php)