Re: [Killietalk] PVC Manifold

[Richard Arline <pb1212bba at bellsouth_net>]

Hello Alberto,

     If you want leak-proof fittings that can be taken apart easily, you have 3 choices. Use all slip ( glued ), a combination of slip-to thread, or all threaded fittings with Teflon tape.

     The easiest way would be to glue up your manifold, decide where it should be taken apart, cut at that point and install a true union. Allow an extra 3 inches for the union if spacing is critical. True unions come in either slip or threaded versions.

     If you want to be able to take more of your manifold apart but don't need to take every single piece apart, use Slip - to- threaded fittings. Example : pipe glued to - female slip /  male threaded coupling - threaded elbow - male threaded  / female slip coupling - glued to pipe. You would probably also want to use at least one true union in here somewhere to make disassembly easier.

     If you want to be able to take every single fitting apart, you would use all threaded fittings with Teflon tape, but you would need access to a tapping/threading machine to make threads on your pipe lengths. A good dedicated hardware store ( not a home repair superstore ) or sprinkler system business may be willing to do this for you, especially if you buy your pipe and fittings from them. I would also use at least one true union in here somewhere to make disassembly easier. 

     A primer on Teflon tape:

     Most people do not know how to use Teflon tape properly and experience leaks. You have to wrap it in the correct direction so it does not slip off when you assemble the parts. You also should not use too much, as a massive glob will actually cause leaks. Three or four wraps is ideal. For righthanded  ( normal ) pipe threads ( water ) do this : Assuming a 1/2 to 1 inch diameter pipe, tear a strip of Teflon tape 8 to 10 inches long. Hold the strip of Teflon tape at the top in your right hand. Hold the part to be wrapped in front of you in your left hand with the threads facing to the right. Bring the tape to the part slowly and lay the bottom of it on the threads. Trap the bottom of the tape against the threads with your left thumb and wrap up, over and away from your body with your right hand. Make the first wrap very loose until you have wrapped the tape over itself. For the next 2 or 3 turns, you can gently stretch the tape as you wrap so it locks itself into the threa!
 ds. Don't stretch the tape too much. If a fitting is taken apart, it needs to be cleaned of old tape and rewrapped. If you follow this procedure you will never have a leak. Lefthanded threads are usually reserved for natural gas lines. If you encounter these fittings, just hold fitting in right hand, tape in left hand.

Richard Arline
Hollywood , FL


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