Article Introduction
When you need to repair or replace a piece of PVC pipe or a fitting, you may be interested in learning how you can unglue PVC. Unfortunately, you cannot unglue PVC. However, there are alternative solutions. In this post, we will show you how to remove glued PVC pipe & fittings. You could twist apart the pvc pipe and fitting before the cement has set, cut off the joint with a hacksaw, or heat up the joints.
*Note: These methods may help in non-pressure applications. If removing pvc pipe or PVC pipe fittings in pressure applications, make sure you follow the standards that are required.
Why PVC Can’t Be Unglued
You can’t unglue PVC pipe fittings or couplings joined with primer and solvent cement because it actually creates a solvent weld. The primer and solvent cement create a chemical reaction when combined on the PVC that essentially melts the two PVC pieces together. These individual pieces have now formed to become one single piece. Since you now have one piece on your hands, there really isn’t a way to unglue it. However, you may be able to work around this problem if you have a broken or damaged pipe you need to repair. Check out the following ideas for taking PVC pipe & fittings apart.
Twist the PVC pipe fitting or pipe Apart Before the Cement is Set
Whether you’re repairing the pvc piping under a bathroom sink or you’re simply putting the finishing touches on a crafting project, you can save your project when you realize you’ve glued the PVC pipe fittings or pvc pipe in the wrong place by using the twisting technique. You do have less than two minutes to realize a mistake and attempt to twist the PVC apart before the solvent cement sets or cures. This will require a lot of force – great amounts of twisting and pulling at the same time. You likely twisted the PVC pipe fittings or pvc pipe when making the connection. You could continue to twist in that same direction while pulling apart the two pieces in hopes that it breaks the weld that has started forming.
Cut Off the PVC pipe fitting or pipe Joint with A Hacksaw
If twisting didn’t work, you will unfortunately have to try another solution. Cutting the joint or PVC pipe fittings off of the pvc pipe is an option. Before using your hacksaw to start cutting, determine where your mistake was made and the solution you’ll use. Was the pvc pipe too short? Did you use the wrong PVC pipe fittings? In most cases PVC pipe fittings are less expensive than pvc pipe so cutting off the PVC pipe fittings with a hacksaw is a good option. The length of pvc pipe lost with the fitting could be replaced by a coupling or nipple, determine which is best for your application.
Heat Up the PVC pipe fitting or pipe Joints
Heat can be used to soften and weaken the PVC. Direct heat onto the joint you are trying to break. Then, as the PVC heats, start pulling the connection apart. If you use heat to separate a pvc pipe from a PVC pipe fittings, both the pvc pipe and PVC pipe fittings should not be reused in pressure applications. The integrity of both the PVC pipe fittings have been compromised and cannot be used again. This heating the joints technique is often a good solution for crafting or non-plumbing DIY projects.
Try these Alternatives to Ungluing PVC pipe fitting or pipe
The likelihood you caught the mistake and were able to pull apart the connection before it cured is slim. Since you can’t unglue the PVC solvent weld, you will find success with the alternatives to ungluing PVC pipe & pipe fittings. Just remember to be prepared: after using one of these three solutions to taking apart PVC pieces, you’ll have to replace a few parts. To ensure you won’t run into a situation where you need to know how to unglue PVC, always dry fit your pieces and use a marker to mark connection points.
summarize
Ungluing a PVC pipe is a challenging but achievable task. Once that’s done, gluing PVC pipe in the fashion you want is a cinch!
By following these steps and taking necessary safety precautions, you can successfully separate and replace PVC joints in your plumbing projects. Remember, if you’re unsure about the process, it’s always best to consult with a professional plumber.
If you want to know more about PVC pipes and fittings, please contact our team and we will provide you with quality solutions!
About SAM-UK
SAM-UK are a professional 18+ years manufacturer in producing vinyl building profile products and PVC , CPVC , PPH , PPR , PP pipes and pipe fittings, valves, taps and so on. We own the certificates of SGS\SONCAP\ISO9001\CE\NSF，support color /size customization. Welcome to consult for Catalog and Product. you can contact us at email sales@sam-uk.com
