Grey PVC 90 Degree Tee

PVC Piping System

Storage & Handling

Pipes can be safely stored indoors or outdoors, but try to avoid exposure to sunlight for long periods, which can discolour the pipe although there is no loss of strength.  Avoid dragging pipes over rough ground or careless handling in cold weather, when the material is more fragile.

Cutting

Pipes can be cut with an ordinary handsaw or hacksaw.  Above all, cut the pipe square.  Use a mitre block or guide if necessary.  Better still use a hand rotary cutting tool with blades for plastic pipes.  A square cut is virtually guaranteed.

Deburring

Use a file, knife or deburring tool to remove swarf and then to put a small chamfer on the leading edge of the pipe.

Check Dry Fit

Insert the pipe into the fitting to check the tightness of the fit.  A good interference fit is when resistance is felt about third to one half way in, and this will bond faster than a loose fit.  If the fit is loose, apply two coats of solvent cement to ensure that the material is well jointed.

Clean All Surfaces

Cleanliness is very important.  Clean all joining surfaces with MEK cleaner on a lint free cloth.

Prepare The Solvent Cement

PVC cement should not be stirred.  Never try to thin cement with MEK or any other thinner.

Assemble Joint

Use a natural brush or applicator which is about half the pipe diameter.  Apply a generous coat to the pipe, making sure that all the joint surface is well covered.  Without delay, apply cement to the inside of the fitting, using outward strokes to keep excess cement from the roof of the fitting.  For sizes 3in and above, or if the fit was loose, apply a second coat to the pipe.  Immediately push the pipe and the fitting together using a quarter turn twisting motion.  The assembly must take place while the cement is still wet.  Hold together for about 30 seconds until bonding takes place, then wipe away any excess with a brush or cloth.  For sizes 4in and above it is recommended to use two people.

Testing

Leave as long as possible before testing, and never use compressed air or gases (refer to the solvent manufacturer’s instructions).

Safety

When working with solvent cements, always follow the instructions on the can.  Work in well ventilated areas, and do not smoke.  Dispose of unused cements with care.

Available in the following sizes;