How to Build a Pipeline
Building a pipeline sounds difficult, but for most home applications, the good news is that it's not that hard. There are all kinds of needs to channel air, electrical or water around the property and here we will find out the basics are not that different for each. Read on to learn how to build a pipeline. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Determine what you're transporting. Local codes will determine what type of pipe material to use and what size, but for most do-it-your-selfers the material will be PVC pipe since it's probably a sprinkler system or a drain pipe they're dealing with with their home projects.
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Measure the distance. This will tell you how much pipe you need. Also, you need to count the number of corners or angles that are needed to reach your destination and are they 90 or 45 degree angles? You'll need to buy the same number of connectors to get your pipe to where it needs to go.
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Check the source and destination. What type of coupling do you need to make your connections?
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Construct your pipeline. Now that you have your materials, connect the first length to your source. Use a liberal amount of glue to avoid leaks. Cut and measure as you go to continue adding sections and take note of what angle connector you will need at each corner. The great thing about PVC is it is flexible so your cuts don't have to be exact and the bonus is, it's easy to cut even with a basic hand saw.
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Do your glue. There's two ways to go about this. You can glue as you go, but you have to preset the right angles on your connectors each time then quickly glue them at each point. Downside is, you're married to it. The other way is to connect the line all the way before gluing so you can still turn the pipe if needed to adjust. Then go back and glue it together. Downside is parts up the line may pull away making your cuts inaccurate. When you go back to glue you may have to re-cut some lengths.
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Work it the same for any type of pipe. The differences between pipe material will be that metal pipe will thread together or if it's Copper, it will be smelted at the seams. Working with metal pipes is more difficult, harder to cut and unless you are very experienced, it is recommended to hire a professional.
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Bury it or not. If the pipe is running under the house, then no need or if it's running through heavy brush or areas that are not often traveled. Save your back and don't bury it unless it will be unsightly. It's fine on top of the ground and much easier to maintain. In a few months if it's in an area that is not manicure, the growth will soon cover it up. For pipes running across an open yard then get out the shovel and start digging.
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Tips & Warnings
Always pick up extra connectors and more length of pipe than you need to allow for mistakes.
Wear gloves.
Let the glue dry for 24 hours before applying pressure to the pipeline.
Use caution whenever using cutting tools.
If you're running electrical conduit, shut off the power before running or connecting the wires.
Do not attempt to build a gas pipeline unless you are very experienced in how to deal with gas.
Protect your skin and eyes when using PVC glue and allow for good ventilation. Breathing the fumes is hazardous to your health.
