One of the greatest appeals of working with plastic plumbing pipe is the relative simplicity of the tools required compared to metal piping. While copper systems demand specialized torches, flux, and solder, plastic systems—including PVC pipe, CPVC, and PEX—rely on quick mechanical or chemical joining processes. However, because different plastics use different joining methods, the required toolset is not uniform. A plumber needs a specialized kit that includes tools for precise cutting, smooth deburring, and specific joining mechanisms to ensure that every connection in the plastic plumbing pipe system is leak-proof and compliant.

Tools for Cutting and Preparation

The first step for any plastic installation is a clean, square cut. For thin-walled PVC and PEX, a ratchet-style cutter is the preferred tool. It provides a quick, straight cut without producing messy plastic shavings. For thicker Schedule 80 PVC pipe or CPVC, a fine-toothed saw (like a hacksaw or miter saw) is sometimes used, followed immediately by a deburring tool. Deburring is critical for removing the inner and outer plastic burrs left by the cut. Failure to deburr can prevent a pipe from seating fully into a fitting or, in the case of pressurized systems, cause flow turbulence.

Tools for PVC and CPVC (Solvent Welding)

PVC pipe and CPVC rely on solvent welding, a chemical process that temporarily softens the plastic surfaces of the pipe and fitting, fusing them together permanently. The primary tools here are brushes and applicators, often integrated into the primer and cement cans. However, the technique is the true tool. Applicator tips must be appropriately sized for the plastic plumbing pipe diameter to ensure a uniform, generous coat of primer and cement is applied. Since these materials cure quickly, precision and speed are essential; no other specialized mechanical tools are needed for the joint itself.

Tools for PEX (Mechanical Joining)

PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) uses mechanical fittings rather than chemicals. This requires dedicated, specialized tools for crimping or expanding the pipe onto the fitting. The most common tools are:

Crimp Tools: Used with copper or stainless steel crimp rings. The tool compresses the ring onto the pipe/fitting assembly, creating a secure seal. Crimp gauges are then used to verify the proper crimp tension.

Expansion Tools: Used specifically with PEX-A pipe and expansion rings. These tools expand the PVC pipe diameter just enough so the pipe can be placed onto the fitting, and the material's elastic memory then shrinks back down to create an extremely strong seal.

General Safety and Support Tools

Beyond the specialized tools, general plumbing gear is necessary. A tape measure and level are critical for ensuring proper alignment and slope, especially in drainage systems where gravity flow is paramount. Safety glasses and gloves are non-negotiable when working with solvent cement and primer, which contain volatile chemicals. Finally, pipe strapping and plastic hangers are essential support tools used to securely fasten the plastic plumbing pipe to the building structure, ensuring thermal movement is accounted for and minimizing noise.

Conclusion

The tools required for installing plastic plumbing pipe are diverse yet manageable, varying significantly between the solvent-welded (PVC/CPVC) and mechanically joined (PEX) systems. With extensive industry experience, LESSO offers a broad range of plastic engineering pipeline solutions. Its portfolio is organized into four major product series serving municipal water supply, municipal drainage, power line communication, and municipal heating applications. This broad expertise ensures that LESSO consistently delivers certified and high-quality plastic PVC pipe solutions for all facets of infrastructure.