How to Weld Copper Pipe
Soldering
Soldering is a popular method for joining copper pipes, which involves heating the joint area with a propane torch. The process involves applying a flux material to the target area and then melting solder alloy with a propane torch to join the copper pipes and create watertight seals. This method creates a strong joint that can withstand high water pressure and temperatures.
Soldering is a common method used by plumbers for plumbing installations in residential and commercial buildings.
Welding
Welding involves joining copper pipes by heating them until they reach their melting point. The edges of the copper pipes are melted and joined together, sometimes using filler metal for a stronger joint. Gas metal arc welding or gas tungsten arc welding is typically used for welding copper pipes. However, only experienced welders should perform this high-risk job using proper welding tips and recommendations.
Welding is ideal for high load-bearing connections and is often used in the automotive, energy, and construction industries.
Compression Fittings
Compression fittings are an effective method to join copper pipes, especially in narrow spaces where accessing pipes is a challenge. The compression force connects the two copper pipes, and the fitting consists of compression rings, compression nuts, and a body fitting. The compression ring is placed over the end of the copper pipe, while the nut is screwed onto the fitting. The pipe is inserted into the fitting, and then the nut is tightened to compress the ring onto the pipe and form a tight seal.
Compression fittings are commonly used for water supply and gas pipe lines, and to connect various components of air conditioning and refrigeration.
Brazing
Brazing involves melting copper pipes at high temperatures and filling melted filler on the surfaces to join them. Brazing creates a permanent connection that is resistant to corrosion and vibration. There are several brazing methods, such as resistance brazing, furnace brazing, torch brazing, and induction brazing.
Engineers use brazing to join copper pipes in plumbing and to fix commercial refrigeration and HVAC systems.
Flared Fitting
Flared fittings are a type of compression fitting that involves flaring the end of the copper pipe into a cone shape with a special tool. The flared fitting is then placed onto the flared end of the pipe and tightened with a nut to avoid any leakage. Flared fittings are strong and can withstand high temperatures and water pressure.
Flared fittings are only used in gas and refrigeration systems.
Push-Fit Fitting
Push-fit fittings are a versatile and straightforward method to connect copper pipes. These fittings do not require soldering, gluing, or threading, and they do not require any special tool. The fittings consist of a body, an O-ring, and a grab ring to secure the pipe. Users only need to push the copper pipes into the fitting and then secure them in place with the O-rings.
Push-fit fittings are commonly used in plumbing and HVAC systems and are available in various metals, sizes, and shapes.
Conclusion
There are several ways to join copper pipes, each with its own benefits and ideal applications. Brazing, soldering, and welding are the conventional methods to join copper pipes permanently, while compression and push-fit fittings are convenient and easy methods. It is essential to choose the appropriate method depending on specific needs, workplace situation, and available materials.