How to work with copper pipe

Working with copper pipe can seem intimidating because in most instances, you have to work with a torch. However, if you carefully follow these steps. the process should be worry-free. And as long as your joints are cleaned properly, the risk of a leak occurring can be greatly minimized.

Things You'll Need

• copper piping
• copper fittings
• (1) roll of sand paper
• (1) rag
• (1) container of flux
• (1) flux brush
• (1) small tank of propane or map gas
• (1) torch tip to fit small gas tank
• (1) roll of solder
• (1) set of wire brushes of each fitting size
• (1) lighter or torch striker

Instructions

How to work with copper pipe

1. One of the most important aspects of working with copper pipe is the process of cleaning it. Cleaning the pipe and the accompanying fittings is the best way to prevent leaks in the pipe. You can thoroughly clean the surface of the pipe with sand paper. You want to clean the surface right up to the point where the fitting connects with the pipe. Wrap a piece of the sand paper around the pipe, gripping it tightly with one hand while using the other to move the sand paper over the pipe back and forth several times until it is shiny.

2. Use the wire brush to clean the fitting. The brush should the same size as the fitting you are cleaning. Stick the brush inside the fitting and turn it clockwise 10-15 times to make sure the fitting is thoroughly clean. Blow inside of it to make sure any particles in the fitting from cleaning are blown out.

3. Dip the flux brush into the container of flux and wipe it completely over the cleaned surface of the pipe. Repeat the same process around the inside of the fitting.

4. Connect the pipes and fittings together until you have reached a stopping point in which you are able to weld the pipe and fittings together. Screw the torch tip onto the tank of gas and open the valve midway by turning the nozzle counter-clockwise. Ignite the torch at the end of the tip by using the lighter or torch strike. Unroll a length of the solder about 8 inches long and bend it like a "bendy straw."

5. Place the torch flame under the fitting at one end. The point of doing this is to heat up the fitting, liquefy the flux and solder in order to bind together. Periodically touch the tip of the solder against the heated area until the solder runs into the fitting. If solder begins to drip, this means that the fitting area is full . If this happens, immediately wipe excess solder and flux from the area with a rag. Repeat this step to all fitting areas until all connections have been welded. Be sure to double check every joint.