Adjusting a PEX crimper is an important procedure to ensure that pipes are properly crimped and water-tight. Follow these steps to adjust a PEX crimper:
1. Start by selecting the correct cupholder for the type of PEX pipe you are working with. Ensure that the opener is slightly larger than the pipe itself.
2. Place the cupholder over the pipe, ensuring that it’s completely flush with the outer rim.
3. Adjust the PEX crimper by loosening the two screws on the top and bottom of the tool.
4. Gently squeeze the handles together, tightening the screws just enough to be able to compress the coupler onto the pipe.
5. Once the crimper is tightened, slide it over the pipe and crimp the pipe. Inspect the pipe to make sure that the crimping is uniform and there are no gaps.
6. When finished, remove the pipe and check the crimp again. Make any adjustments to the tool, if necessary, and repeat the process.
Following these steps should make adjusting a PEX crimper a straightforward process, helping to ensure water-tightness and a long-lasting installation.
How do you tighten a crimp tool?
To tighten a crimp tool, start by preparing the crimp tool for use. This usually involves pre-setting the pressure or inserting the dies into the tool. Next, position the components that you are crimping in the crimp tool.
Close the tool slowly and watch for the crimp to form. Do not use any pressure or force to crimp the materials as this could cause damage or uneven results. If the desired crimp is not achieved, adjust the pressure or die, as necessary.
Once the correct crimp is achieved, carefully open the crimp tool and remove the crimped connection. Check the work to ensure a secure connection and repeat the crimping process as needed.
Can you crimp Zurn PEX?
Yes, you can crimp Zurn PEX fittings with a PEX crimp tool. Zurn PEX is a common material for commercial and residential plumbing projects and is used for hot and cold water supply and radiant heating systems.
The process involves securing a PEX fitting to the PEX tubing by using a specialized crimping tool. First, insert the PEX tubing into the fitting, ensuring that it is firmly seated. Next, position the fitting and tubing in the jaws of the PEX crimp tool and squeeze the handles together to compress the fitting securely onto the tubing.
This ensures a leak-free connection and a safe, secure installation. The proper crimping tool is essential for a successful installation, as the wrong tool can result in an incomplete seal or other installation problems.
Which is better PEX clamp or crimp?
The best choice for securing PEX tubing will depend on the situation and the effectiveness of the installation. PEX clamps, also known as cinch clamps or pinch clamps, provide a secure connection for PEX tubing to fittings.
They are fast and easy to install and are cost effective since PEX clamps are relatively inexpensive and require no specialist or specialised tools. Crimps, on the other hand, require a specialized tool and crimp rings, which can be more expensive than clamps.
They provide for a more secure connection than a pinch clamp, so are preferred for higher pressure applications or applications where higher performance criterias are expected. Crimp connections are known to be stronger and more durable than pinch clamps, and can better hold up in extreme weather and temperature changes.
Crimps also provide a more consistent, reliable seal, while cinch clamps may not provide full coverage along the entire circumference of the tubing.
Is Zurn PEX type A or B?
Zurn PEX piping is type A according to the manufacturer, meaning it is made out of a cross-linked polyethylene material. It is strong, flexible and non-flammable, making it an excellent choice for a variety of plumbing and heating applications.
The type A designation also means it meets strict standards and is listed with the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO). It is built to stand up to high temperature and pressure fluctuations, making it an ideal plumbing solution for cold and hot water systems.
It is also offered in a variety of sizes, including 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″ and 1-1/4″ for more versatile and custom plumbing arrangements.
Who makes PEX A?
PEX A is a type of tubing manufactured by the Uponor Corporation. Uponor Corporation is a global company that specializes in the manufacturing and installation of systems used in the plumbing, climate, fire safety, and radiant heating and cooling industries.
The company was founded in Germany in 1964, and is currently headquartered in Apple Valley, Minnesota. Uponor Corporation has manufacturing and distribution centers in Europe, China, and North America, and its products are sold in more than 40 countries.
PEX A is one of the most common types of plastic tubing used in plumbing and heating systems, and is manufactured by Uponor Corporation using a cross-linking process, in which chains of molecules are joined together to form a permanent bond.
The result is a durable, lightweight, and affordable solution for a wide range of plumbing and heating purposes.
What type of PEX is Zurn PEX?
Zurn PEX is a type of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plumbing tubing. It is used primarily in home and commercial plumbing applications for hot and cold water systems. PEX is renowned for its flexibility as well as its resistance to corrosion, scale buildup, and chlorine.
Zurn PEX is manufactured in three sizes (1/2″, 3/4″, and 1″) and five colors (red, blue, white, gray, and black). Each size and color is printed on the surface of the pipe for easy identification. Zurn PEX also offers several different types of tubing, including PEX-A, PEX-B, PEX-C, and PEX-AL-PEX.
PEX-A is the most flexible type and is often used in tight corners, as well as its resistance to kinking. PEX-B is the most common type of PEX tubing and it is made from a single extrusion process. It is slightly less flexible than PEX-A, but it’s still very durable and can withstand high water pressures.
PEX-C tubing is the strongest type of PEX, and it is this type of tubing that Zurn PEX is known for its durability. PEX-AL-PEX is a type of PEX tubing with an aluminum core, which makes it even stronger than PEX-C and highly resistant to thermal expansion and contraction.
Is Apollo PEX type A?
No, Apollo PEX tubing is not type A. Apollo PEX is a cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipe widely used for both hot and cold water supply systems in residential and commercial applications. PEX type A is a version of PEX developed by U. S.
-based Uponor and is one of the three primary types of PEX available. The other types are PEX B and PEX C. These three types vary in the chemical composition, production, and properties of the material.
Unlike Apollo PEX, PEX type A is formulated with special additives that make it retain certain properties even after years of being exposed to higher temperatures and pressure, making it ideal for hot water applications.
Apollo PEX, while still reliable and durable, is more affordable and less commonly used in applications where PEX A is specified.
Is Apollo and Uponor the same?
No, Apollo and Uponor are not the same. Apollo is a multi-national technology and engineering company, providing a wide range of products and services to customers in the aerospace, automotive, communications, defense, and energy industries.
Uponor is a global provider of sustainable, safe, and efficient plumbing and heating solutions, specializing in the development and manufacturing of innovative indoor climate solutions for residential and commercial construction.
Apollo primarily focuses on the aerospace, automotive, communications, defense, and energy sectors, while Uponor focuses on plumbing and heating solutions. Therefore, although both companies provide a wide range of products and services, they are not the same.
Are sharkbite and Apollo interchangeable?
No, sharkbite fittings and Apollo fittings are not interchangeable as they are designed to be used with particular types of pipe. Sharkbite fittings are designed to work with PEX, CPVC, and polyethylene plastic pipes while Apollo fittings are usually used with copper and polyethylene water supply pipe.
Furthermore, Sharkbite fittings require a special tool to be installed properly, which Apollo fittings do not require. The two fittings will not fit together, as the thread sizes and ends are different.
Additionally, due to their different make-ups and materials, Sharkbite and Apollo fittings are not generally considered to be interchangeable.
Can you use PEX B fittings on PEX a pipe?
Yes, you can use PEX B fittings on PEX A pipe. PEX fittings come with a barbed end and can be applied to either type of PEX. You may need slightly different tools to install PEX fittings on PEX A or PEX B piping as they use a slightly different connection method and they can also vary in size.
For example, PEX A fittings often require a crimp ring or clamp, while PEX B uses a stab-in connection. In either case, take care to ensure that the connections are firm and secure and use seals or other items as necessary to make a water-tight seal.
It is best to use the same type of PEX when setting up plumbing systems, but if you have to mix and match, you can use PEX B fittings for PEX A pipes.
Is it better to crimp or sharkbite?
Whether it is better to crimp or sharkbite really depends on the application. Crimping is a mechanical connection of two pieces of metal by deforming one or both pieces with a tool, while sharkbite is a push-fit method that literally pushes the fittings together.
Both methods are suitable for certain applications; crimping is often used for joining pipes, while sharkbite is frequently utilized with copper and PEX piping.
Crimping has the advantage of having a secure connection that will not move or become disconnected, while sharkbite has the benefit of not requiring any tools, though a special removal tool may be necessary to disconnect the fitting in some applications.
When deciding between crimp or sharkbite, the type of material being used, the application, and the potential risk of leakage caused by movement or vibration of the fitting should all be considered.
How long do PEX crimps last?
PEX crimps have a relatively good lifespan, typically lasting up to 15 years or more depending on the quality of the product and how frequently it is used. In some cases, proper maintenance and care may help further extend its life.
Good quality PEX crimps are capable of lasting up to 50 years when properly installed and treated. To help ensure that your PEX crimps last as long as possible, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation and use.
Additionally, it is recommended to inspect the crimps regularly for signs of damage or corrosion, and replacing any damaged parts or sealants as needed. With proper maintenance and care, the average PEX crimp should last up to 15 years or more.
Is PEX pipe OK for hot water?
Yes, PEX pipe is generally considered to be an acceptable choice for hot water applications. It is an economical and durable choice for hot water lines and is resistant to corrosion, extremely flexible, and resistant to freezing.
It is also very easy to install and is lightweight compared to other types of piping. Additionally, PEX pipe is resistant to scale and mineral buildup, which helps to ensure that hot water flows efficiently through the pipes.
For these reasons, it is becoming increasingly popular as a choice for hot water systems.
Which type of PEX connection is best?
When it comes to PEX connections, it really depends on the particular application and the needs of the project. If you are looking for a connection that is reliable and strong, then crimp rings are a popular and reliable option.
With crimp rings, you insert the PEX pipe into the fitting and then crimp the ring with a hand or pneumatic tool. This type of connection is often preferred because it provides a secure, leak-free connection and it is easy to inspect.
On the other hand, cinch clamps are a good option if you want a quick and easy installation without the need of any special tools. With cinch clamps, you wrap the clamp around the pipe and fasten them in place with a screw.
This provides a solid connection with a good seal, but it is not as reliable as the crimp rings since there is no inspection process.
In the end, it really comes down to your specific needs and the application you are working on. If you are looking for a secure and reliable connection, then crimp rings are the way to go. If you want a quick and easy installation, then cinch clamps provide a good option that is fast and simple.
Are brass or plastic PEX fittings better?
The overall answer depends on the circumstance and the requirement. Plastic fittings have the advantage of being cheaper and easier to install. They are also more resistant to corrosion and do not need the use of fire-based tools during installation.
However, plastic fittings have a lower connection pressure rating compared to brass fittings and are not as durable.
Brass fittings provide a more secure connection for PEX tubing as they have a higher pressure rating, which makes them suitable for use in high-pressure plumbing applications. However, they are more costly and require the use of fire-based tools, such as a torch, during installation.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on the type of PEX tubing being used, the location of the tubing, the required pressure rating, the cost, and the expertise of the installer.
