Since polypropylene pipes are the most common in all industries, devices for working with them are indispensable both in production and at home. The installation of such pipes is carried out by soldering the two ends using a special apparatus.
The correct selection of equipment greatly facilitates the soldering process and ensures the quality of the work done.
Working principle
A high-quality welding machine for polypropylene pipes should provide comfort in work and perform reliable fastenings. The design of the device consists of a body, a plate and the heater itself.
The soldering process takes place using diffuse technology and consists of three stages:
- First, the device heats up the seam.
- Next, the edges of the pipes are applied to the iron.
- After that, the ends heated to the desired state are connected. In the process, the temperature decreases, after a while the seam hardens and becomes strong.
Each machine has individual features.
Overview of welding machines for polypropylene pipes
Among the various models of devices that can greatly simplify the process of attaching elements at home, the following types of devices should be distinguished:
- Xiphoid. These devices provide for the presence of interchangeable nozzles that are mounted on through holes or bushings. The heating element is a thermostat. In most cases, temperature data is displayed. Among the positive aspects, increased resistance to overheating is distinguished. The main negative characteristic is the poor fixation of the device on the stand.
- Cylindrical. This type is equated to a professional one. The working element is a cylinder on which various nozzles for pipes are attached. These models are divided into two types: with a straight and side cylinder (the latter is suitable for more complex work).
- Mechanical. The working element in such devices is pressure. A feature of mechanical manual welding machines for polypropylene pipes is a built-in dynamometer. With the help of such an element, you can monitor the amount of pressure supplied. Ideal for small to medium diameter pipes. In the process of work, special clamps are used to fix the elements.
- Hydraulic. A feature of these devices is the presence of an electrohydraulic drive. With the help of such a drive, pressure up to 120 atmospheres can be created. Ideal for medium to large diameter constructions.
- Bell-shaped. This welding method consists in using a special sleeve that is heated from the inside to fasten parts. This method is considered the most reliable and is suitable for working with products with a diameter of up to 125 mm.
Specifications
The main specifications of the PP pipe welding machine include:
- power;
- complete set;
- accessories;
- manufacturer.
When choosing, it should be borne in mind that the minimum design power should be:
- for pipes with a diameter of 20 mm - at least 200 W;
- from 40 mm - 400 W or more.
For home use, 850W would be ideal.
Apparatus for large diameters. What's special
Difficult manipulations with large diameters cause difficulties in operation. For brazing pipes with large diameters, mechanical welding fixtures are the best option.
A feature of mechanical soldering irons is the ability to fix work surfaces with clamps.
Manual apparatus. What are the features
Welding machine for polypropylene pipes 63 mm or less is used at home. Mostcommon are the so-called irons. "Home" devices consist of:
- hot plate;
- temperature controller;
- holders;
- welding elements that are coated with thermal protection material.
The peculiarity of hand tools is their low power. It is worth noting that such devices are suitable for beginners.
What to look for when choosing
To choose a good welding machine for polypropylene pipes, you should pay attention to the following criteria:
- Device type. This setting is individual. For home use, the most primitive - manual devices, for professional - mechanical ones are suitable.
- The presence of a protective coating. This coating provides effective protection for work surfaces.
- Manufacturer and brand. Before buying, great attention should be paid to user reviews about a particular manufacturer and a particular device.
- Power. This criterion is also selected individually. The specified power should ensure comfortable operation and reliable welding of the elements.
- Number of extra nozzles. The more nozzles, the more versatile the model is. When choosing, you should also pay attention to the usefulness of the components.
- Build quality and material of manufacture of the device.
Important! Check new appliance before first useon the remains of old pipes.
How to choose the right welding machine
When choosing a welding machine for polypropylene pipes, you should pay attention to the following characteristics:
- Temperature. A more professional device always has a wide temperature range. This ensures comfortable work with any kind of plastic, as well as reliable fastening of elements.
- Package. In addition to the main nozzles, the package may include: a cutter, tape measure, lotions, etc. The cost of the device depends on the number of additional nozzles.
- Speed of work. This parameter directly depends on the declared power. For home use, a simple device with a power of up to 850 W is suitable, and for production conditions - from 1.5 to 2 kW.
User Manual
In the process of selecting a fixture, it should be understood that welding technology in no way depends on the tool. The seams are soldered according to the following scheme:
- First, the joint is prepared: the pipes are cut to the desired size. The tightness of the seam will depend on the quality of the cut.
- Next, select a suitable nozzle and put it on the soldering iron tip. After that, the tool is connected to the mains and wait some time to warm up the nozzles.
- A coupling is inserted into the nozzle on one side, and the end of the pipe on the other. After heating, both elements are removed and quickly inserted one into the other. As the material cools, the process of formation occursseam.
- Exactly the same operation is performed with any docking element.
Rating of welding machines for polypropylene pipes
The most popular fixtures are:
- Candan. The Turkish apparatus is equated to professional ones. Powerful models (mostly sword-shaped) allow you to use three nozzles at once. The kit also includes: special scissors, level and measuring tape. It is worth noting that the average power of Candan is 1.5 kW.
- Welding machine for polypropylene pipes "Zubr 2000". It is worth noting that such a tool can be used by both professionals and beginners. Among the main advantages are: high power, the presence of a non-stick coating and two heating elements at once. Heating indicators are attached to the body of the device, which notify the user about the temperature of the device.
- Among domestic manufacturers, Sturm received the most trust from users. Cylindrical heaters have a fairly high power (about 1.8 kW). The kit also includes: 4 nozzles, hex wrench. Users note that at a relatively low cost, the device meets the specified characteristics and is suitable for both home work and small production.
- V altec. Powerful devices (up to 1.5 kW) are budgetary, but effective. Most devices of Russian-Italian production are made in the form of a "sword". The machine is suitable for welding pipes with a diameter of 20 to 160 mm.
- Welding machine forpolypropylene pipes "Resanta". This device has high power and optimal voltage. The strong case protects the device from mechanical damages. The maximum operating temperature is 300 oC. These characteristics allow you to work quickly and efficiently. The diameter of additional nozzles is from 20 to 63 mm.
- Polys P-4 is also a popular manual model. Low power (850 W) does not affect the performance. It is worth noting that the kit includes scissors, additional nozzles and a clamp. Ideal for home use and small scale production.
Important! Before you start welding pipes, you should carefully familiarize yourself with the basics of soldering technology and carefully study safety precautions.
