Plumbers’ Plumbing Equipment
As a plumber, possessing the necessary tools can make all the difference. Some essential plumbing equipment includes pipe wrenches, adjustable wrenches, allen wrenches, faucet keys and basin wrenches.
Plumbers use tools such as tubing cutters to cut soft copper tubing and drain snakes to unclog toilets and pipes.
Wrenches
Plumbers use several wrenches to grip and turn nuts and bolts, including ratcheting types that allow them to apply force more quickly with reduced strain. They may also utilize specialty wrenches designed specifically for specific tasks – like basin wrenches for faucet tailpieces. In addition, strap wrenches offer durability when tightening or loosening pipes without risk of scratching their surfaces.
Plumbing tools that help with cutting and repairing piping materials include pipe cutters with blades designed to cut various metals and tubing cutters that act like super-strong scissors for PVC and other plastic piping. A plumber’s torch is essential for soldering copper pipes while quality thread sealing tape, also known as plumber’s tape, can prevent leaks at threaded connections in pipes.
A nipple extractor assists plumbers when performing adjustments, repairs or replacements on threaded pipes containing short sections called nipples. An adjustable wrench, with its jaw-like head that grips different size nuts and bolts securely is another great tool; particularly effective on metal pipes and fittings. Plumbers also utilize pliers which enable them to securely grasp objects which would otherwise be hard or impossible for one hand to hold alone.
Thread Sealing Tape
Thread sealing tape (also referred to as plumber’s tape or PTFE tape) is used to seal connections between two pipes that screw together. It provides an easy-to-dispense product which ensures tight seals by lubricating and eliminating direct contact between mating components.
It is crucial that when applying this tape correctly that it be done so correctly; otherwise the pressure from mating threads could work against it and unravel or ball it up. Therefore, before beginning this application process it is essential that all debris such as dirt, factory oils or any other particles present on pipe threads be removed as this may prevent a strong seal being formed with tape being stuck to it.
Once the area is clean, it’s time to begin wrapping tape around male pipe threads. Begin by placing it on the second thread from the end and gradually wrap the tape, taking care that each new wrap lays flat against threads, with half covering previous ones. Keep tension on your tape when wrapping to ensure that it remains tight during tightening or disassembly processes.
Pliers
Pliers are essential tools for any plumber, enabling them to grasp, turn and remove objects of various shapes and sizes. They come equipped with extra sharp jaws designed to cut through soft metal while others specialize in gripping pipework – some common types being pipe cutters, tongue-and-groove pliers and combination pliers.
Plier handles are constructed from nonslip, insulating materials that ensure a firm grip and help minimize hand fatigue. Their jaws typically comprise durable alloy with serrated or textured surfaces to enhance gripping capabilities; additionally, these jaws have pivot points connected to their handles that enable them to open and close smoothly.
Many pliers feature small blades known as cutters that pinch together to shear wire pieces off. Unfortunately, not all pliers contain these sections, meaning you will need to select the appropriate ones for your task. Nail puller pliers feature standard jaws with serrated teeth for easier nail pull-out; others like lineman’s pliers and needle-nose pliers can reach tight spaces more efficiently.
