Can I Crimp Type B PEX?
In recent years, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) has been one of the most sought-after types of tubing in plumbing projects. It is more affordable, flexible and easy to install than conventional copper pipes. PEX is also corrosion-resistant and less likely to burst in freezing temperatures.
Type B PEX is among the common variants of PEX tubing and is also commonly used. When it comes to making PEX pipe connections, there are three methods one could use, and they include crimping, cinching and expansion. Can I crimp type B PEX? Yes, crimping is the best connection method when working with PEX B tubing and fittings. This article elaborates on a step-by-step process on how to crimp type B PEX tubing.
Read more: How Do I Know If I Have PEX A or PEX B?
How to Crimp Type B PEX: Step by Step
1. Gather all the needed tools and materials
- PEX B tubing
- PEX fittings
- PEX crimp rings
- PEX pipe cutter
- PEX B crimping tool/ PEX crimper
2. Cut the PEX tubing
Measure the desired length of your PEX B pipe and cut it perpendicularly. Ensure that you use a PEX pipe cutter so that you can get a clean and straight cut.
3. Slide the crimp ring onto the PEX tubing
The next step entails sliding your crimp ring on the PEX tubing. Also, position it about 1/8 to 1/4 inch from the end. More importantly, it’s crucial to use crimp rings that match the size of the PEX pipe. For instance, a 3/4 inch pipe takes a 3/4 inch crimp ring.
4. Insert the PEX fitting into the tubing
Push in the PEX fitting (insert-style fitting) into the same end you positioned the crimp ring. Ensure the fitting is fully inserted into the pipe; the end of the PEX tubing should touch the shoulder of the fitting.
5. Position the crimping tool and crimp
You need to position your PEX crimper’s jaws over the crimp rings for crimping. To make a complete crimp connection, squeeze the handles firmly to compress the crimp ring and secure the PEX tubing to the fitting. Once the crimping cycle is done, your crimping tool locks.
It is also worth noting that the jaws of your PEX B crimping tool should match the size of your crimp ring. Examples of excellent PEX B crimping tools include the IWISS IWS-C125 1.25-inch PEX Crimping Tool and the iCrimp IWS-C Angle PEX Crimper for 1/2 and 3/4 inch crimp rings.
Read more: The Difference between PEX Press and PEX Crimp.
6. Inspect the crimp connection
After crimping, you should then inspect the quality of the completed connection. First, you can visually check whether the crimp ring is well secured: it should be tight and free of any gaps or deformities. You can also use a Go/No-Go Gauge to measure that the crimp was made correctly and is within the standard limits. The “Go” side of the gauge should tightly slide over the crimp connection, and the “No-Go” side should not slide over at all.
Bottom line
Crimping is one of the most reliable and effective pipe connection methods, especially when working with type B PEX tubing. Having a proper PEX B crimping tool makes the crimping process quite easy and results in reliable and leak-free connections.
Do you have a plumbing project and need to make PEX B pipe connections? iCrimp offers a wide variety of PEX crimping tools for different pipe sizes. iCrimp’s tools feature ergonomic designs, making them quite user-friendly. Above all, they’re affordable for both DIY enthusiasts and plumbing professionals.
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