PVC pipes are easy to customize and assemble. They are extremely durable and can transport both gases and liquids.
So, to use them in your DIY projects is a given. However, one question remains.
Most people will opt to connect their PVC pipes with glue, and this is useful because it is an excellent bonding agent for long-term use.
However, PVC glue can become extremely messy, especially when it comes to long-term use.
So, this causes many problems for individuals, and causes many of them to seek out alternative methods for connecting their PVC pipes, which begs the question, can it be done?
We are here to tell you that yes, it can! It is more than possible to connect PVC pipe without glue, and in this article, we will be discussing just that!
Put down the gorilla tape – there are better ways to connect pipes together.
So, if this is of interest to you, read on for more!
How To Connect PVC Pipes Without Glue?
There are four different ways you can connect PVC pipes without glue/PVC cement. While a PVC adhesive is easy to use, you might not have access to the glue immediately. Check them out in more detail below!
Connecting Method One: The O-Ring
Using fittings with O-rings is a great way to connect two PVC pipes without glue.
O-rings are a great waterproof tool. It is a rubber ring that sits on the inserted PVC pipe.
Follow the instructions below to complete this method successfully:
- First, ensure that the spigot end has a 12 to 15° chamfer when cut in the sector. There should be an appendix for the O-ring to help you with this
- Now, you will need to make sure the socket is clean, the ring groove in particular. The rag you use should be clean
- Now, you need to both clean and dry the ring and ring groove before installation
- Make sure that the lead-in angle of the O-ring is seated and distributed equally through the ring groove
- Then, you will need to clean the spigot end of the pipe, making sure that there are no burs
- Next, lubricate the end of the spigot, again to the witness mark. Make sure you pay close attention to the chamfer
- Make sure the spigot is aligned with the socket. Place it inside
- Now, you will need to ensure that the mark is not visible. Please note that a pipe should not be inserted too far into the socket
- Don’t worry if you pushed a pipe too far in, you can easily remove it, provided the lubricant has not yet dried
Connecting Method Two: Mechanical Connectors
The second method you can use for PVC pipe coupling is to use mechanical connectors. This is one of the most popular methods because it is a simple method with a low cost.
Follow these instructions to complete this method successfully:
- First, you need to make sure the existing PVC pipes are clean. If not, clean it
- Then, you need to deburr the pipe
- Next, open the compression stack/small washer completely
- Now, you will need to reverse the rubber washer, washer, and nut, onto the part of the pipe that is going to be connected. Please note that the rubber washer should fit snugly and should be at least fifteen to twenty mm beyond the pipe
- Now, you need to take the pipe and slide the joint body onto it, making sure it fits snuggly next to the rubber washer
- Next, slide both the bolt and the washer through a connector pipe.
- You must ensure it is secure and watertight. Once you have established this, use a plumber’s wrench to snug the bolt
Connecting Method Three: RTV Silicone
The next method for connecting a PVC pipe without glue or PVC primer is to use RTV silicone.
This is a very quick and efficient method for sealing the pipe, but it must be totally dry before you can begin. Otherwise, the pipe will not be waterproof.
Follow these instructions to complete this method successfully:
- Use a damp rag or cloth to get rid of any debris or dirt from the surface of the pipe
- Take a utility knife and trim around a quarter of an inch from the top of the silicone tube
- Now, you need to use a thin wire or nail and poke a hole in the seal
- Next, place the silicone tube inside the caulk gun
- Now, push the rim of the tube and the push plate together
- Then, you need to force a push plate inside the silicone tube
- Look for the gap in the joint of the PVC pipe, and then seal it by using the tip of the tube
- Keep pushing the button until the tip of the silicone emerges
- Now, you will need to smooth out the texture of the silicone by dipping your fingers in some water and smoothing them over the silicone
Connecting Method Four: Threaded PVC Pipe
There are many different PVC thread applications, depending on your thread options. You will need a PVC pipe threading tool for the plastic pipe.
Follow these instructions to complete this method successfully:
- First, you need to take a rag and wrap it over the middle of the pipe. Secure it with a vice
- Now put the PVC threading tool at the edge of the pipe and turn it while you press the tool onto the pipe’s end
- Now, you need to remove the clamp from the pipe and use a cloth to clean the fresh threaded fittings
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it! Most of the time, PVC glue is used to connect PVC pipes together because it is extremely efficient and effective.
However, not everyone wants to use it and will seek out alternative methods of connecting PVC pipe.
Luckily, there are four different ways to connect PVC pipes.
You can try connecting your PVC pipe without PVC glue by using an O-Ring, mechanical connectors, RTV silicone, or a threaded PVC pipe.
All of these methods are effective ways to connect your PVC pipes, so pick one and expect to see great results!
We hope this article told you all you needed to know about how to connect PVC pipes without glue.
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