How to Repair a Hole in Copper Pipe
Copper pipe is often used in residential, commercial and other settings for transporting water from one point to another. Due to normal use or damage holes can develop in copper tubing that allow water to escape. Considering that copper pipe can be used in settings where open flame is not practical such as underwater or in combustible environments, another option is available that will securely repair the copper pipe safely. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Copper pipe
- Dry rag
- File
- Water proof epoxy putty
- Container
- Water
- Pipe wrap
Instructions
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1
Shut off the water supply to the copper pipe that has developed a hole. Allow water to drain from the pipe and wipe excess water from around the hole on the outside of the pipe with a dry rag.
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2
Rough the area around the leak with a coarse metal file. Remove only enough material to slightly roughen the area immediately around the hole in the copper pipe. Avoid removing excessive amounts of metal that could potentially weaken the pipe further.
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3
Apply water proof epoxy putty to the hole. Follow manufacturers directions for preparing the putty if necessary. Form the putty into the shape needed to cover the hole and over lap onto the pipe and press the putty firmly onto the pipe so it covers the hole.
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4
Add water to a shallow container. Place a roll of pipe wrap into the water and allow to soak for 30 seconds to 1 minute to activate the bonding adhesive. Remove the pipe wrap from the water.
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5
Press the free end of the wet pipe wrap firmly to the copper pipe. Place the wrap on the pipe just below the hole. Wrap the pipe wrap up over the hole and slightly past. Continue wrapping the pipe by bringing the pipe wrap back down and then back up so there is at least three layers of pipe wrap covering the hole.
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6
Smooth the pipe wrap on the copper pipe by rubbing in the direction that the wrap was installed on the pipe. Continue rubbing or the pipe wrap until it begins to set and harden. Allow the wrap to set and cure for 30 minutes before turning the water back on to the copper pipe.
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