How to use a plumber’s turnpin

A wiped joint is a soldered joint that can be used to join two lengths of lead pipe together.

The turnpin is used to form the joint.

Step 1 – Prepare pipe 

The ends of the pipe must be squared off (cut at 90 degrees).

Step 2 – Insert turnpin 

Insert the pointed end of the turnpin into the end of the first pipe.

This is the receiving pipe.

Step 3 – Strike turnpin

Use a mallet or a hammer to strike the broad base of the turnpin, squarely and in the centre, to drive it in, ensuring that the point of the turnpin is kept in the centre of the pipe at all times.
The pipe must be held in the hand. Do not rest the end on a surface. If the pipe flares unevenly to one side, hit the turnpin on the other side to even out the flare. Remove the turnpin when flaring is completed satisfactory.

Step 4 – Remove edges

Using a rasp or a coarse file, remove the sharp outer edge of the two pipes. Ensure that the surfaces are clean and shiney, and paste a suitable flux (for lead) on the surfaces that will receive the solder.

Step 5 – Insert pipe

Insert the second pipe as far as it will go into the receiving pipe. A firm push and twist will help to bed it in.

Step 6 – Close flare

Close the flare of the recieving pipe around the second pipe using a hammer. Ensure that the flare is tightly closed.

Step 7 – Solder and wipe

Add molton solder around the joint, gradually building up the solder to form a neat dome. Using a damp cloth or leather, compact and smooth the lead around the join while the solder is still soft. The solder is literally wiped around the joint – it takes practice to get it right, so be patient.

Add more solder as required, followed by further wiping.