What is pipe-joint compound?
Pipe joint compound, also known as pipe dope, is a type of sealant used with any threaded pipe to help create a seal. Consisting of a mixture of substances, including kaolin, clay, vegetable oil, rosin and ethanol, pipe-joint compound serves as both a lubricant and a sealant for threaded joints.
How long does it take for pipe sealant to dry?
Once the sealant has set, it will continue to cure for several days, or up to 2 weeks, for pipes 12–15 inches (30–38 cm) or larger. Many pipe joint sealants never fully harden—they'll remain slightly gummy in order to expand and contract within the pipe.
What is pipe joint compound (Dope)?
Pipe joint compound, also known as pipe dope, is a type of sealant used with any threaded pipe to help create a seal.
How do you use pipe joint compound?
To use pipe joint compound, apply an even coating onto the end threads of the male pipe (the end that will go into the other pipe), using either the applicator brush or a finger. Do not smear the compound inside the pipes.
Does pipe jointing compound need to dry?
It is not supposed to dry. Pipe joint compound is only to be used on threaded joints, and if you still have a leak after applying the joint compound you simply did not tighten the joint enough.
Does pipe joint compound Harden?
Pipe joint compound has been around and used in commercial and residential applications for decades. It works by hardening as the solvent carrier that is used evaporates. That results in a seal that adheres strongly to both metal and plastic pipes to prevent leaking.
Is pipe joint compound permanent?
Pipe glue is used to make “slip” PVC joints permanent.
How long does plumbing sealant take to dry?
Budget at least 3 to 12 hours for these products to dry and a full 24 hours to cure. For latex-based products, 24 hours is also recommended before water exposure.
Does pipe joint compound stop leaks?
Pipe joint compound and plumber's putty are both types of plumbing sealant, but they are used for different applications. Both are designed to prevent leaks from plumbing fixtures, pipes and fittings, but using the wrong plumbing sealant can lead to leaks and water damage.
What is the purpose of pipe joint compound?
Pipe joint compound can be used for pipes that carry air, gas, oil, and, most relevant to plumbing, water. After application, it dries like glue to create a strong seal. It also serves as a lubricant for threaded pipe joints.
Is pipe joint compound necessary?
Using pipe joint compound on the threads of a pipe joint helps to ensure a water- and air-tight seal. Any plumbing project involving the use of threaded pipe requires the use of a sealant in the form of pipe joint compound, plumber's tape (Teflon tape), or a combination.
Can you dry caulk with a hair dryer?
Using a hairdryer to speed up the drying process is not recommended. Silicon dries comparatively fast, but caulk needs to cure properly. Heat softens the caulk and can disrupt its adhesion. Caulk naturally needs moisture in the air to cure completely.
How do you remove joint compound from pipe?
Place the wrench around the first section of gas line, close to the coupling. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise, to loosen and remove the pipe section from the coupling. Loosen and remove the coupling in the same way. Continue this process removing all pipes and couplings until the marked leaking coupling is reached.
Does pipe thread sealant need to cure?
It does not require any set or cure time. Blue Monster PTFE pipe thread sealant is formulated with PTFE resin, a polymer consisting of recurring tetrafluoroethylene monomers whose formula is (CF2-CF2)n.
How do you remove joint compound from pipe?
Place the wrench around the first section of gas line, close to the coupling. Turn the wrench counter-clockwise, to loosen and remove the pipe section from the coupling. Loosen and remove the coupling in the same way. Continue this process removing all pipes and couplings until the marked leaking coupling is reached.
Is Megaloc permanent?
Use MEGALOC on both plastic and metal pipe and fittings, it's grit-free and does not contain PTFE. It sets soft; no cure time required; never hardens, cracks or becomes brittle. No odor.
How long does Teflon tape last?
Adhesive PTFE Shelf Life The adhesive of PTFE adhesive tape is silicone, and its viscosity will decrease over time. The viscosity will be at the best use stage within 3-5 months, so the manufacturers with a high requirement on the viscosity should use it up within 1 year after purchasing.
How do you seal a pipe joint?
1:404:28How to Use Pipe Joint Compound | Repair and Replace - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst clean the male and female threads of any oil or dirt. Use the applicator brush to stir theMoreFirst clean the male and female threads of any oil or dirt. Use the applicator brush to stir the compound. Now apply a coat to the male threads only. But try to keep the end clean.
How many rounds to tighten pipe dope?
There is no "all the way up". Tighten it another 3-4 rounds and it will be fine. A lot of pipe dope contains chopped teflon, along with a lubricant and some finer solids. When tapered threads were common in the oilfield, we used to use teflon tape and grease, and tighten till the joint got warm.
How hard is it to tighten a pipe?
Tightening a pipe is a learned art. Using two pipe wrenches, I'd say pull as hard as you can muscle up with a 10" wrench.
What to do when plumber comes back?
You call the plumber and tell him to come back and do the job correctly this time....at no additional cost.
What to do if you can't tighten a drip?
If you can't tighten it enough to stop the drip, do what you don't want to do: take it apart and do it over. Otherwise, it will get worse over time, no matter how much goo you put on the outside.
What happens if a NPT joint leaks?
If an NPT joint is leaking it can only result from one of two problems, either the joint is not tight enough or it is cross threaded. There is nothing that can be applied to the outside of the joint to seal it. Either tighten the joint more or take it apart and re-cut the threads, then re-assemble the joint. baymee.
Does lazypup dry?
lazypup. 11 years ago. It is not supposed to dry. Pipe joint compound is only to be used on threaded joints, and if you still have a leak after applying the joint compound you simply did not tighten the joint enough. Sort by: Oldest.
Is tape used in black pipe heating?
While I don't want to incur the wrath of lazypup, the use of both tape and dope is widespread in the black pipe heating industry.
What is pipe joint compound?
Pipe joint compound, also known as pipe dope, is a type of sealant used with any threaded pipe to help create a seal. Consisting of a mixture of substances, including kaolin, clay, vegetable oil, rosin and ethanol, pipe-joint compound serves as both a lubricant and a sealant for threaded joints. Using pipe joint compound on the threads ...
How to clean compound off of joints?
Use a clean rag to wipe away excess compound from the joints. No drying time is necessary.
What do plumbers use to seal threaded joints?
Many plumbers use a thin layer of pipe joint compound on top of plumber's tape for a great seal on almost any threaded joints involving water.
How to clean a metal pipe joint before applying tape?
Before applying pipe joint compound and/or tape, clean the threads and remove dirt, oil, and scum. Metal threads can be fragile, so gently use a wire brush or compressed air to clean out the gunk.
Can you use plumber's tape on gas pipes?
Some types of sealants are not appropriate for both water and gas. Plumber's tape, for example, comes in two types—one for use specifically on gas and one for water pipes. This can also be true for a pipe joint compound, so read the product usage specifications carefully, and if you are not comfortable sealing gas pipes, contact a professional immediately.
Can you use pipe joint compound on plastic?
It is important to note if the product is intended for use on only one certain type of pipe, or if it is a universal product that can be used on both metal and plastic. When buying pipe-joint compound, look for a product that can be used on all types of plastic and metal threaded pipe, and keep it on hand as part of your collection ...
How long does it take for a pipe joint sealant to set?
For larger pipes, however, or systems that will be subjected to high temperatures or continual vibrations, the sealant may require as long as 48 hours to set.
What is pipe joint compound?
Many plumbers swear by pipe joint compound (also known in the industry as “pipe dope”), a gooey adhesive that expands inside the pipe to prevent leaks. Not only are pipe joint sealants more trustworthy than other sealing methods, they're also usually easier to work with.
How to remove dope from pipe fitting?
1. Brush the pipe dope onto the pipe or fitting. Unscrew and remove the lid from the bottle of sealant. Most products will include a small applicator brush on the underside of the cap. Use this applicator to smear the liquid sealant liberally onto the threads of the male pipe fitting. [2]
How many ounces of pipe joint sealant?
Pipe joint sealants come in sizes ranging from 1–32 fluid ounces (30–946 ml) canisters. To avoid inconvenient interruptions, make sure you've got enough to see your project through. For homeowners, a sealant made with Teflon can be helpful. Teflon expands when it gets wet, which can help seal leaks.
What to use when picking up pipe dope?
A small disposable brush or spatula can also be used if the pipe dope you picked up doesn't come with its own applicator.
Where can I find pipe joint sealant?
Pipe joint sealant can be found at all major hardware stores and home improvement centers. Liquid sealants tend to be inexpensive, are easy to work with and don't require any other tools or substances to apply, making them a more practical option than complex multi-part sealants. ...
Where to spread compound in plumbing?
Always spread the compound along the threads of the pipe, which are exposed. This is a lot more effective than applying the compound to the inside of the plumbing material.