5.3.10 Copper Soldering
Proper soldering techniques must be followed when soldering all
compression-sleeve
fi
ttings according to the
Copper Development
Association (CDA) Handbook
:
- The surface of the
fi
tting soldering area must be properly cleaned for
a good solder connection. Applying
fl
ux is not considered suf
fi
cient
cleaning for the soldering area. Using a proper sanding or brush
technique is necessary to remove the surface oxides. In order to
prevent further formation of oxides, the
fl
ux should be applied
immediately after the cleaning process. A proper
fl
ux that is
compatible with the brass alloy must be used.
- Care must be taken to not overheat the soldering surface as this can
lead to the formation of oxides preventing good adhesion of the
solder material. It is imperative that the
fi
tting is heated evenly
around the entire surface so as to not overheat one particular area.
- All completed solder joints must be tested for joint integrity following
the procedures prescribed by prevailing local codes.
When soldering an LF brass
fi
tting:
- The
fi
tting must be soldered onto the copper
fi
rst.
- The solder joint must be allowed to cool to ambient room
temperature prior to making an connection.
- Never solder after connection has been made.
5.4 Compression-sleeve Tools
Assembling the compression-sleeve system requires the
use of the compression-sleeve tools. Only make
compression-sleeve joints with these tools.
Before use, read and understand the following safety symbols which
are found on the compression-sleeve tools.
Safety Alert Symbol – To reduce the risk of injury, follow
the speci
fi
ed safety instructions.
Read and follow all safety precautions in the instruction
manual. Improper use can lead to serious personal injury
or property damage.
To reduce the risk of serious eye injury, always wear
proper eye protection.
Risk of electric shock. Never operate the power tool in
damp or wet conditions. Never expose to rain or
submerge in water or other liquids. Never operate the
power tool near wires or cables carrying electric current.
To reduce the risk of severe personal injury, including
crush and laceration injury, keep
fi
ngers, hands and all
parts of your body away from the expander head,
hydraulic slide and compression jaws during operation.
NOTICE
Use only compression-sleeve tools for assembly and
installation. Use of other tools will result in an improperly assembled
joint, which may result in leaks and property damage
.
5.4.1 Power Tool
For assembly of
fi
ttings up to 1 in. Use the
power tool. Refer to
Power Tool Product
Instruction Manual
(855.725) for a complete understanding of
operation, care and use of the tool
Fig. 5.16: power tool
power tool standard kit:
- power tool
- Expansion adapter
- 1/2, 3/4 and 1 in. expander heads (quick change)
- 1/2, 3/4 and 1 in. compression jaws
- DEWALT
®
12V Li-ion battery (DCB127) (2 batteries per kit)
- DEWALT 12V/20V Li-ion charger 120VAC (DCB107)
- DEWALT 12V/20V Li-ion Battery Charger Instruction Manual
- Pipe cutter
- Lubricant
- Cleaning brush
- Tool case
- Product Instruction Manual
Fig. 5.17: power tool standard kit
17
