In industrial plants, the type of assembly and connection of the piping is of great importance, as it affects work safety and increases the stability of the structure. The method chosen depends mainly on the material from which the elements are made. Some techniques allow you to create permanent connections, while others allow you to connect and disconnect pipes multiple times. Many manufacturers also have their own unique mounting methods designed for specific installation solutions.
Connect pipes using threads
Threading is the oldest method of joining steel pipes and is carried out using specialized tools and machines. This technique can be performed with threading machines, electric taps, manual taps or pipe grooving machines. The process of forming internal and external threads with recesses along the lines makes it possible to obtain an end with properties suitable for screwing. Special thread oil is applied to the aligned ends and the threads can then be cut to the desired finish. A thread cutter is then placed on the tube and tightened onto the workpiece. Through a cycle of twists in selected directions, the yarn acquires its final shape.
Welding Pipe Connections
Soldering copper pipe connections is usually done with a soldering iron. Depending on the connection temperature and installation application, this method can be carried out in different ways. Soft welding is carried out at a temperature of around 450 degrees, mainly for hydraulic installations and low-temperature central heating systems. Brazing is carried out at a temperature of 590-815 degrees, mainly for oil, gas and compressed air installations. In this case, the use of special connectors is necessary. Due to the risk of electrochemical corrosion of copper in conjunction with other metals, care must be taken to isolate or maintain the correct sequence of materials.
Plastic pipe fittings
Pipes are also joined by other methods such as welding, turning, gluing, clamping or pressing. A properly installed pipe clamp supports its weight when mounted on the ceiling or wall of the system. In these installations, the system load and the linear expansion of the cables due to temperature changes are of great importance. Pipe fixing clamps also need to be placed carefully. The stability of the system is guaranteed by fixed support points. A pipe clamp that limits lateral movement can also allow longitudinal movement, increasing safety even under varying mechanical and thermal loads. Sikla offers these products. For example, there is a pipe clamp with rubber that eliminates vibrations, as well as a pipe connection clamp with insulation to protect against water vapor condensation. Interesting products also include a one-piece steel pipe clamp, which ensures quick and easy installation. There are also two-piece metal pipe clamps equipped with a quick coupling for securing coated and uncoated plastic pipes. The stainless steel clamps can also be supplied with a bonded rubber profile, which allows them to be used as slide bearings for silent sliding. To avoid slipping, simply remove the slip rings.
Welding, turning, fixing and gluing
The welding process is carried out using a welding machine that permanently connects the tube to the corresponding connector. Due to the influence of temperature, the material used melts and both elements can be connected together. However, bolting allows you to connect the piping with elements made of other materials. The advantage of this method is its reversibility due to the possibility of repeated disconnection and reconnection. Crimping is also a popular solution. Pipe clamps are suitable for steel or copper systems, for example. Bonding is usually done with PVC pipes. Applying an appropriate agent to the inside of one pipe fitting and the outside of the other pipe provides a firm, permanent connection. The properties of the adhesive ensure that the elements covered by it have good adhesion.
