In everyday life and industry, a large number of pipes are used that must be connected. Plumbing linen is often used as a sealant. Get it from pure combed raw materials. Homogeneous and thin material is the best. There are several varieties of flax fiber. They are denoted by even numbers from 14 to 30.
Where linen is used
To obtain a tight threaded connection with high reliability, sanitary flax is used. GOST for it has the designation 10330-76. The document prescribes that plant fibers should fit snugly into threaded folds. The material is high-strength, not collapsing when connecting fittings. The increased humidity that occurs in the area of the thread leads to swelling of the flax. This property allows it to eliminate small leaks that may occur during the operation of the pipe.
Wound sanitary flax should be as follows:
- Separate a small group of fibers from the bundle.
- Lay flax along the grooves of the thread from the base of the part to the edge. Fibers must be in each lane.
- Apply a special compound for added durability.
Characteristic of flax
The silica contained in vegetable fibers prevents their decay. Flax can be used in systems where the liquid temperature does not exceed 150 ºC: water supply, heat and steam supply. In the production of the material, long fibers from the flax stem are used. There are strength characteristics that are checked at the manufacturing stage. Positive qualities of the seal:
- Affordable price. It can be bought much cheaper than any similar synthetic compounds and materials. The cost depends on the volume and is at the level of 50 rubles per 50 grams.
- Versatility. Flax is suitable for all types of joints.
- High wear resistance. Can be used multiple times.
- Naturality. Does not release toxic substances into the water.
It also has disadvantages, but they are noticeable only in case of violation of the technology of application or errors in calculations. Flax plumbing manufacturer supplies in different styling options. It can be a braid or a ball. The latter option is preferable, although more expensive. If lumps and foreign inclusions are visible in the linen for sale, it is better to refuse to buy it. It is more difficult to twist a thread of the required thickness from it.
FUM Tape
Plumbing linen is a time-tested sealant. However, there are other modern materials designed for the same purpose. One of the modern seals is the FUM tape. In terms of convenience and reliability, it is similar to flax. Butsynthetic material has a significant drawback: its wonderful properties disappear as soon as the connection has been disturbed. This is a disposable tape.
In appearance and other characteristics, it is impossible to distinguish between a connection with linen and FUM tape. However, plumbing linen gives greater reliability to the pipe contact point. For this reason, it is better to use flax fibers.
