Soldering copper pipe

For those homeowners who refer to doing there own plumbing projects here's a little guide to assist you with the soldering with the copper piping employed in home plumbing systems. First I ought to explain that if you need to do your individual pluming installations you should have an over-all idea of the codes governing such installations. You'll find the codes on your state with the link below.

Soldering copper pipe isn't as difficult as a lot of people believe it is. The top requirement with a successful soldering experience is cleanliness. Clear the inside of your connections with a wire reamer brush that you can buy at any hardware or plumbing supply store. Now thoroughly clean the out side of the pipe at the very least 1 " beyond the end with the fitting with emery cloth or steal wool. It is usually a good idea to de bur the inside of the pipe with your pliers. Some pipe cutters have a triangular blade sticking out of the back, this is the de burring tool. Put it to use to get rid of any debris left from cutting the pipe that may hinder the soldering and cause a leak.

The next phase is to apply the flux. The flux acts as a cleaning and bonding agent so the solder will follow the copper and form a good tight and powerful joint. Be sure you make use of the flux liberally and past the fitting to be certain no dirt or dry spots result in the solder not to stick properly.

After assembling your joint bring your torch and with the tip of one's flame heat the middle area of the fitting alternating sides for evenness. With your solder extended touch the joint. Keep heating before the solder melts. Now remove the heat and melt about 3/4 inch of solder into the joint. The warmth will draw the solder in to the fitting all over. You ought to start to see the solder as being a ring around the entire joint. Now wipe from the excess using a rag along with your done. Start working on the next joint simply repeating the same procedure.