What is a ratchet-handle pipe cleaner?
What is a ratchet-handle pipe cleaner? |
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The process of cutting a pipe can leave a small lip (raised area) inside the end of the pipe where it has been compressed. This is because the cutter’s external rotary action cuts from the outside inwards.
If you use a hacksaw or other type of saw instead of a cutter, you can get burring both inside and outside the pipe. |
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It is important to remove all rough edges. Burrs left on the end of the pipe will create eddies, or turbulence, as water flows past. These eddies bounce off the interior of the pipe as they travel along, gradually eroding it until a leak appears. Also, any tiny shavings left behind could travel down the pipe and cause damage to equipment such as taps, valves and boilers.
Any burrs left on the surface of the pipe will make it difficult to solder, so these must be smoothed away, too. |
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When copper pipes are installed they are usually soldered together to fit the space available. Joints can also be made using compression fittings. | |||
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Before soldering, pipe ends must be thoroughly cleaned both inside and out to ensure an acceptable joint is made. Old pipes, in particular, might be covered in grease, dust, paint or corrosion marks which would make them difficult to connect together properly. | |||
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