Handheld fusion tools can usually handle PPR pipes ranging from 16 to 63 millimetres (0. 63 to 2. 48 in), while bench-mounted models can handle pipes up to at least 110 millimetres (4. 3 in). [2] X Research source You can find various models of PPR fusion tools online, ranging in price from around $50 to over $500 USD.
Be very careful around a hot fusion tool and make sure everyone in the area knows it’s on and hot. The sockets reach temperatures of over 250 °C (482 °F) and can cause severe burns.
PPR pipe can also be cut with a variety of hand or power saws, or wheel-style pipe cutters. However, make sure the cuts are as smooth and even as possible, and clear away any burrs with fine-grit sandpaper. [6] X Expert Source Patrick JohnsHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 26 October 2021.
If you don’t know what type of cleaner to use, contact the manufacturer of your fusion tool.
Alternatively, you can stick a tape measure into the pipe fitting you’re using (e. g. , an 90-degree elbow fitting) until it hits the small ridge inside the fitting. Subtract 1 millimetre (0. 039 in) from this depth measurement and mark it as the welding depth on your pipe. [9] X Research source
If your fusion tool doesn’t have a temperature display, you can use a probe-style or infrared thermometer to read the temperature on the sockets. You can also buy temperature indicating sticks (e. g. , Tempilstik) at welding supply stores. Choose sticks that will melt at 260 °C (500 °F) and touch one to each socket. [11] X Research source
Temperatures of over 80 °C (176 °F) can cause severe skin burns in less than a second, and the fusion tool heats up to 260 °C (500 °F). [13] X Research source
Push the pipe into the female socket until you reach the depth marking you put on it. Push the fitting onto the male socket until it touches the ridge or line marked on the socket.
For some models, you might punch in the correct pipe diameter first, then the timer will activate automatically when you place the PPR pieces on the sockets. If your model doesn’t have a built-in timer, refer to the heating directions in the manual and use a watch or clock to time the heating process. Heating times can vary, with larger diameter pipes often taking a bit longer than smaller ones.
Pull the pieces off as soon as the alarm sounds or they’ve reached their heating time. Otherwise, the ends will deform and melt.
Don’t wait more than 3-4 seconds before joining the pieces together. People often twist PVC pipe pieces a bit when joining them in order to spread around the cement, but resist this urge with PPR. You risk deforming the pipes and/or ruining the fusion process.
If you were to cut through the joint once the fused pipe completely cools, you wouldn’t be able to tell where one piece ended and the other began. They have melted and reformed into a single piece of PPR pipe.
PPR pipe should cool completely within 10-15 minutes at most.
