Assembling PVC pipe

Rigid plastic pipe is used for drain, waste and vent systems.  PVC and CPVC are also used for drinking water in some areas, but check your local codes.  Safety Note:  when working with the primer and glue, work in an area with adequate ventilation.  This stuff is nasty and can cause health problems.  Check the can for particulars.

twist
Items needed:

Hacksaw
Sandpaper
PVC primer
PVC cement
Rag

Safety Suggestions and Tips
Wear safety glasses
Follow safety warnings on package.
Mark pieces for length and alignment
Level of difficulty


Time Required:
 15 minutes

Steps

Cut pipe to length
Cut pipe to length

Step 1:

Mark the pipe where you want it cut.  Gently clamp it in a vice or otherwise immobilize it.  Using a hacksaw (or tubing cutter), cut the pipe.  Make sure that you cut the pipe straight across! Emery cloth or 120 grit sandpaper will clean the burrs from the end.  You should not sand outside of the pipe.  Alternatively, you may also use a utility knife to cut away the burrs.

Prime pipe
Prime pipe

Step 2:

Before going further, it is a good idea to "dry fit" the pieces together to make sure that they will fit your application.  Using the brush in the primer can, wipe the primer on the surfaces that you will be joining.  BE CAREFUL when you use this stuff.  It is the same consistency as water and a wonderful shade of purple.  It WILL stain everything it comes into contact with.

Apply solvent
Apply solvent (glue)

Step 3:

Take the brush from the can of cement and apply the cement to both surfaces to be joined.

Assemble joint
Assemble joint

Step 4:

Push the two parts together with a twisting motion.  Work quickly as the cement usually sets up in about 20 seconds, sometimes much less.  Using a rag, wipe off the excess glue around the joint.