UPVC pipes sometimes leak. Most of the leaks occur at the joints, where the pipes and fittings are glued together. This post will tell you the reasons for UPVC pipe leaks so that users can better prevent such problems.
There are five main reasons for UPVC pipe leaks, which are incorrect size, material deterioration, improper operation, improper use of glue, and environmental impact. I will explain them one by one.
Incorrect Size
UPVC pipes and fittings need to be strictly sized during use. When the pipe fittings are connected to the pipes, the gap cannot be too large or too small.
If the gap is too small, after the glue is applied to the surface of the pipe, there may be too much resistance and it cannot be inserted to the specified depth. Generally speaking, the larger the diameter, the greater the resistance. If it is not inserted deeply and continues to be used, it may leak.
On the contrary, if the gap is too large, it is not in compliance with the specifications to rely on glue to fill the gap.
Therefore, during construction, we recommend that you try to insert the pipe fittings once. Generally speaking, when the test insertion reaches 1/2 to 1/3 of the specified depth, the gap at this time is the most suitable.
Material Deterioration
The materials here include the deterioration of the materials of pipes and fittings and the deterioration of the glue materials. When transporting, storing, and stacking pipes and fittings, they must be strictly operated in accordance with the specifications, and they must not be exposed to the sun, corrosion, heavy pressure, and other damage. These influences may cause the deterioration and deformation of the materials, thereby affecting the bonding effect of the pipes and fittings.
At the same time, when choosing glue, you must choose glue of reliable quality to avoid poor bonding effect.
Improper Operation
Improper operation mainly refers to the lack of experience of the installers. Without special business training, they may make mistakes when working.
For example, when bonding a pipe with a larger diameter, especially when bonding an injection-molded ball valve, a skilled construction worker will immediately apply glue along the axis of the pipe for 1/4 of a circle, and then quickly push the pipe to the specified position, and keep the applied external force unchanged for no less than 60 seconds to prevent the valve from slipping out.
On the contrary, many operators often do not continue to maintain the applied external force after inserting the pipe into the specified position, causing the pipe and valve to slip out, resulting in a shorter insertion and a reduced bonding area.
Improper Use Of Glue
Before bonding, the surface of the pipes and fittings should be carefully wiped clean. When bonding, do not use too much or too little glue. After bonding, you should also test to ensure that the glue has firmly bonded the pipes and fittings.
If the above three steps are not carried out by the specifications, it may cause pipeline leakage.
Environmental Impact
Weather, temperature, and application environment may also cause pipes to be loosely bonded and leak.
For example, if the pipes are constructed on rainy days or in low-temperature environments, the humid water vapor and temperature may affect the effect of the glue.
If the pipes and fittings are used in industrial fields or may come into contact with corrosive substances, the service life of the glue and pipes and fittings may also be affected, causing leaks.
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The above are the five main reasons for water leakage at the bonding joints of UPVC pipes. During construction, workers need to pay special attention to avoid the occurrence of the above situations and reduce the possibility of water leakage in the pipes.
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