Inspect the facer device and ensure the blades are sharp, tight, and undamaged.Follow all the machine manufacturer’s instructions and perform any maintenance as needed. Next, set up and inspect the fusion machine that you will be using.Do not use pipe that is damaged or gouged deeper than 10 percent of the pipe’s wall thickness on the outside or 5 percent on the inside.

Proper preparation and organization will help your heat fusions go smoothly. The steps outlined here are the basis for creating both great piping systems and happy customers. There are seven essential steps when performing a butt-fusion joint using Aquatherm polypropylene pipe. Of course, the key here is “properly performed.” Good technique and attention to detail will ensure a successful fusion, contributing to a leak-free installation.Īccording to Lance MacNevin, director of engineering for the Plastics Pipe Institute’s Building & Construction Division, the butt-fusion procedure basically consists of heating the squared ends of two pipes (or a pipe and a fitting), holding them against a heated plate, removing the heat when the proper temperature is reached, bringing the ends together with a certain force, and allowing the joint to cool while maintaining the force. There are no leak paths, and, when properly performed, the fused joint will remain leak-free throughout its 50-year-plus year lifespan. The joint is as strong-if not stronger-than the pipe itself.

A properly performed butt fusion on polypropylene piping is a wonder of the modern world: two pieces of pipe (or a pipe and fitting) become one solid piece.

Aquaterm 63m socket fusion