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Deburr and Chamfer the Pipe — Deburr and Ream the Pipe

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Solder Copper Pipes for a Permanent, Watertight Joint · Step 3 of 9

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In this video

After cutting, use a deburring tool to scrape away any plastic burrs from the inside edge of the pipe. Then, use a metal file to create a slight bevel, or chamfer, on the outside edge of the pipe. This chamfer helps the pipe enter the fitting smoothly and prevents the cement from being wiped away upon insertion.

Goal: Create smooth edges for a better seal

  • Chamfering the outer edge of the pipe greatly reduces the chance of a leak by allowing the cement to distribute evenly instead of being pushed out of the joint.

Used in this video

  • Deburring Tool (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Deburring Tool Type)Removing burrs from the inside of the cut pipe.
  • File (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Hand tools)Creating a chamfer on the outside edge of the pipe.
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FAQs

What type of torch is best for soldering copper pipes, and how do I know I'm applying enough heat?

The K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch Head is sufficient for most residential copper pipe soldering. You'll know you're applying enough heat when the pipe and fitting are hot enough to melt the Oatey Safe Flo Lead-Free Solder *by touching the pipe*, not the flame. The solder should then be drawn into the joint by capillary action.

What are the critical safety precautions I must take when soldering pipes indoors?

Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and remove any flammable materials from the work area, especially when using a torch. Ensure good ventilation to disperse solder fumes, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes or heat. It's also crucial to turn off the main water supply before starting to avoid accidents and ensure pipes are dry.

Is it really necessary to deburr, ream, and thoroughly clean the pipes before soldering?

Absolutely. Deburring and reaming with a tool like the Husky 1-5/8 in. Inner/Outer Reamer ensures a smooth pipe interior for optimal water flow and prevents solder from being blocked. Thorough cleaning with sandpaper and applying Oatey H-20 Flux are critical to remove oxidation, allowing the solder to properly bond and create a strong, watertight seal.

What are the most common reasons a soldered joint might leak, and how can I avoid them?

Leaks often occur due to insufficient cleaning, inadequate heat application, or not using enough solder. Ensure pipes are shiny clean before applying Oatey H-20 Flux, heat the joint evenly until it can melt the solder, and feed enough solder to completely fill the joint. If a joint leaks, it must be desoldered, thoroughly cleaned, and resoldered.

Transcript
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Once we have made our cut, we're going to de-burde the inner edge of the pipe using a de-burring tool Once the inside edge is complete, we can now deburr or chamfer the pipe on the outer edge as that allows the glue to glide between the fitting and the pipe Doing this prevents the glue from completely being pushed out of the join as the pipe enters and greatly reduces the chance of a leak chamfering the pipe involves filing, scraping or grinding away the outside 90 degree angle on the end of the PVC pipe and taking it down to somewhere in the region of 22 and a half to 45 degrees The angle is not absolutely critical, but what is important is to ensure that there is no sharp edges I'll be using a fine file

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