With a vast array of solvent cements available, it can be overwhelming to decide where to start. Whether you're a novice entering the industry or an experienced plumber requiring a brief review, this guide will assist you in choosing the most suitable and efficient solvent cement for each task. It includes useful pointers and recommended product varieties, which can be considered as your essential cement items, to ensure that you're equipped for a variety of plumbing tasks, repairs, and unforeseen circumstances.
Things To Consider
- Piping - When selecting the appropriate solvent cement for your project, it is important to consider two key factors: the type of pipe material and the size of the pipes. If the cement and pipe material are not compatible, the joint will fail. Therefore, it is critical to choose a cement that is formulated for the specific type of pipe material you are working with, such as PVC, ABS, or CVPC plastic pipes. Additionally, larger pipes will require a cement with a heavier body, and you can choose from regular, medium, and heavy-bodied cements based on the pipe size. Oatey recommends using specific pipe size guidelines when selecting a solvent cement, which can also be found on the cement can.
- Application - To ensure the success of your plumbing project, it is essential to select a cement that is appropriate for the specific application conditions, including temperature, moisture, and pressure. Additionally, consider whether the system is for potable water or non-pressure DWV and choose a formulated cement accordingly. Set time, also known as cure time, is another important factor to evaluate, especially for time-sensitive projects where extended downtime is not feasible. In such cases, a faster-setting product is a better option.
With all these factors in mind, it's now time to focus on joining the pipes with the appropriate solvent cement.
ABS
For joining ABS pipes, it is recommended to use ABS Medium Black Cement, which is suitable for residential, non-pressure applications on all schedules and classes of ABS pipe and fittings up to 6 inches. It can withstand temperatures ranging from 40 degrees F to 110 degrees F (4 to 43 degrees C). It is important to note that primer should never be used on ABS solvent welds.
PVC
When it comes to joining PVC pipes, there are a few options available depending on the project's specific needs. For potable water, pressure pipe, conduit, and DWV applications up to 6 inches, medium clear PVC cement is a fast-drying, versatile choice approved for all schedules and classes of PVC pipe and fittings. It is suitable for both residential and commercial projects with multiple pipe diameters.
Heavy-Duty Clear PVC Cement, on the other hand, is ideal for larger schedules and classes of PVC pipe and fittings, up to 12 inches for pressure and up to 18 inches for non-pressure applications. It is recommended for commercial applications and approved for use on larger-diameter pipes.
Finally, for emergency, repair, and cut-in work for potable water, sewer, and DWV applications, Hot Medium Blue Lava PVC Cement is an extremely fast-setting option formulated to hold PVC joints beneath water. All of these cements are recommended for use in temperatures ranging from 40 degrees F to 110 degrees F (4 to 43 degrees C).
Want To Join ABS To PVC?
When it comes to joining ABS and PVC, ABS to PVC Transition Green Cement is the solution. This cement is suitable for non-pressure transition joints up to 6 inches when joining ABS to PVC. In many jurisdictions, this cement is approved for use only once for a transition between ABS and PVC piping in a single application. This cement is recommended when it's not feasible to use a mechanical transition.
CPVC
When it comes to joining CPVC pipes, there are several options to consider. For time-sensitive repairs and cut-in work, the Orange Lava CPVC Cut-In Cement is a fast-setting, heavy-bodied cement suitable for use on all schedules and classes of CPVC pipe and fittings up to 12 inches.
For cold and hot potable water systems up to 2 inches, the FlowGuard Gold One-Step Yellow Cement is an ideal choice that doesn't require a primer where local codes permit.
However, for both residential and commercial applications, the Medium Orange CPVC Cement is recommended for cold and hot water systems with temperatures up to 200 degrees F (93 degrees C). It is approved for use on all schedules and classes of CPVC pipe and fittings up to 6 inches but requires the use of primer. It's worth noting that the Orange Lava and FlowGuard Gold cements are more common for residential applications, while the medium orange CPVC cement is suggested for commercial use.
Conclusion
By considering these factors, you can choose the right solvent cement for your project and ensure a strong and secure joint. Remember, when it comes to plumbing, it is always better to take the time to do things right the first