What Should I connect Pipes with

[rich2103]

I am new to Reef setups and I just got my 55 gallon tank, For my plumbing I plan to use PVC pipe to run from the tank to the sump and back. I have looked through articles on the internet and magazines about plumbing but none say what to use to hold the pipes in place. Is It OK to use the solvent sold in hardware stores or should I try something else

 

[DougBak]

I've used PVC cement on mine.. as long as it cures before you start running water thru you'll be fine. It's the same stuff they use when installing water lines in your house, so it can't be too bad.

 

[WannaBeReefer]

Make sure you use primer as well.

 

[hdtran]

Ditto the PVC solvent cement.

Be sure to let cure extra properly.

 

[Fl_Seagull]

If you are joining the flexible PVC pipe (white spa hose or the gray conduit) use "WET or Dry PVC Cement." The ACE Hardware's part number is 41883 but it is sold at any home improvement store. It is usually blue. It is "Hotter" which mean more solvent, but it sets faster. Using the standard general-purpose cement does not work very well even if you use primer.

I have found the primer optional most of the time. It is required by building codes to be used on water systems, which is why most people recommend it. But I trust you will not be burying your pipe :wink: . If the pipe is clean and the cement is new the primer adds very little. If you are using the last half of a can of cement that has sat for months in a hot garage, even using primer will not insure a good bond.

The primer is general pinkish so the inspector can easily verify it has been used.

The cleaner that is available is very similar to the primer. Both the cleaner and the primer contain Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK), which is the main solvent in the cement. It soften the pipe and will cause it to swell. So, don't apply them to your pipes and then decide to set everything aside for the night. You may find yourself sanding the pipe to make it small enough slip into your elbows .

 

[hillbilly]

Well said Fl-Seagull. As a plumber who joins pipe for a living, I agree with you. "Wet" cement will bond any pvc you would use. Purple primer will help seal joints on pipe 1 1/2" and larger, as these large joints sometimes want to slide back out before the solvent sets. It would not really be needed on smaller dia. pipe for aquarium use.

 

[rich2103]

Thanks Alot your information was Helpful!

 

[drnkjunglist]

I just put some pvc together and i did not use primer, just the glue. The parts i put it on are not high pressure points really, maybe one that comes out of my pump, all the pvc i used it on was 1" or less, so you think i will be fine? or should i re-do them with primer and glue ?

 

[ricky1414]

I just put some pvc together and i did not use primer, just the glue. The parts i put it on are not high pressure points really, maybe one that comes out of my pump, all the pvc i used it on was 1" or less, so you think i will be fine? or should i re-do them with primer and glue ?

I didn't use primer on mine, and it was fine. don't worry :wink:

 

[ScottC]

The primer "gums up" the PVC and the cement makes it stick. When you give the PVC it's 1/4 turn, you're actually joining the outer skin of the 2 pieces together, giving you a better, and more watertight, joint.