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joining CHROME PIPE |
Chrome pipe can be joined using compression, pushfit or solder joints as long as certain precautions are followed.
Joining chrome pipe with compression fittings
Probably the best and easiest way to join chrome pipe is with compression fittings. These are easy to use and require the least preparation and also can be purchased with a chrome plate finish, so that they match the pipe. These have the advantage that they can be used where people will be able to view the joints and are very useful if a joist is hindering the path of the pipe.
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Here you can see that a joist has prevented the radiator tail from being piped up directly through the floor and so two 90 degree chrome plated compression bends have been used. |
Compression fittings are used on chrome pipe much the same as if it was copper pipe, but never use any tools with a serrated edge as these can damage the chrome finish. Always use a good fitting spanner or an adjustable spanner. How to use compression joints can be seen by clicking here.
Joining chrome pipe with pushfit fittings
Push fit fittings can be used on chrome pipe, but the chrome plating needs removing first from the area of pipe that will be inserted into the push fit fitting. The chrome plating is that tough that the stainless steel grip ring inside of the push fit fitting cannot grip the pipe and there is a real chance that it will eventually fail!
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Often chrome plated pipe is only used for the last
few inches on a run of a pipe as it is more difficult to use than
copper or plastic pipe and is much more expensive. Therefore it is
often necessary to connect a piece of chrome plated pipe to either
copper or plastic pipe, this will often be concealed so that only
the chrome pipe is visible.
Pushfit connectors can be used on chrome pipe as long as the chrome plating is removed first. Please see below for instructions on how to remove the chrome plating. Please click here for more information on push fit fittings. |
Joining chrome pipes with solder fittings
Chrome pipes can be joined with solder fittings, but once again the chrome plating needs removing.
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Let's not kid ourselves here. Removing the chrome
plating from chrome plated pipe is not easy and will require
patience and hard work.
Use a piece of emery cloth or wet and dry paper to remove the chrome plating, this is not at all easy! |
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You need to remove enough of the chrome plating so that there is a minimum 2mm gap between the chrome plating and the joint. Solder will not stick to chrome and so it is essential that it is all removed. Ensure the end of the pipe is clean by cleaning it with wire wool. |
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Here you can see that the chrome plating has been completely removed from the end of the pipe. This can now be used in a push fit fitting or can be soldered using either end feed of solder ring fittings- |
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