How To Connect Pvc To Cast Iron Sewer Pipe Underground
Connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground can be a daunting task. If you are working on a project that requires this type of connection, you want to ensure that you are doing it correctly and safely. Fortunately, a few simple steps can make the process much easier. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground, from the tools you need to the steps necessary for a successful connection. With this guide, you can make sure that your project is done quickly, safely, and correctly.
What You Need
In order to connect PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground, you need a few basic things. First, you will need the two types of pipe – PVC and cast iron. You will also want to have some PVC cement, a pipe cutter, and a few different wrenches. Additionally, it can be helpful to have a level, a shovel, and a mallet. Cast iron pipe is often found in older homes’ sewer systems. This type of pipe is also resistant to corrosion and can last a very long time. However, it is important to note that cast iron pipe is not the same as iron pipe, which is typically used in modern sewer systems.
Preparing the Cast Iron Pipe
If you are connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground, you will want to make sure that they are prepared. The key to this is removing any lagging or other materials that may be on the ends of the pipes. You will also want to sand the end of the cast iron pipe to ensure a good seal with the PVC. There are a couple of ways to prepare the cast iron pipe for connection to PVC. If you are connecting a new PVC pipe to an existing cast iron pipe, you can use a high-pressure water jet to clean off the end of the cast iron pipe. If you are connecting a new PVC pipe to a new cast iron pipe, you can use a strong solvent to remove the material from the ends.
Joining the PVC Pipe and Cast Iron Pipe
Once the ends of the pipe are prepared, you can connect the two types of pipe together. There are two main types of connections for connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground: the joint-and-spacer connection and the direct connection. The joint-and-spacer connection involves adding a spacer between the two pipes and then connecting them with a special type of joint. This connection type is particularly common when connecting PVC to cast iron pipes in basements or foundations. The direct connection is the most basic connection type for connecting PVC to cast iron pipes. This type of connection is suitable for above-ground projects and does not require any special joints or spacers. In fact, if you are connecting PVC to cast iron pipes underground, you will likely use the direct connection type. This connection type involves simply placing the end of the PVC pipe directly against the end of the cast iron pipe and connecting them with PVC cement.
Securing the Connections
Once you have made the connection between the two pipes, you will want to ensure that they are secured. There are a couple of ways that you can do this. The first is by taping the edge of the PVC pipe to the cast iron pipe to ensure that they stay together. The other option is to use straps, clamps, or a specially designed connector to secure the two pipes together. Once you have connected the PVC pipe to the cast iron pipe, you will want to make sure that the connection is secured. There are a few ways to do this, depending on the connection type. For the direct connection, you can place a clamp over the joint to ensure that there are no leaks. For the joint-and-spacer connection, you can add a strap around the joint and the spacer.
Testing the Connection
After you have connected the PVC pipe to the cast iron pipe, you will want to test the connection to make sure that it works properly. To do this, you will add water and check that there are no leaks. Start by flushing the lines to remove any air and then add water until the water reaches the correct level. The level at which you add the water will depend on the type of project you are working on. For example, if you are connecting PVC to cast iron pipes underground and the cast iron pipes are below the level of the PVC pipes, you will want to add the water above ground level.
Wrapping Up the Connection
Once you have tested the connection and ensured that there are no leaks, you can start wrapping up the connection. To do this, you will want to add a jointing wrap around the joint. There are three main types of jointing wraps for connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground. The first is an extruded jointing wrap. This type of wrap is the easiest to install, although it does not create a watertight seal. The second type of jointing wrap is a metal jointing wrap. This wrap seals the joint watertight but is more difficult to install. The third and final type is a metal and fibrous jointing wrap. This wrap seals the joint watertight and is relatively easy to install.
Troubleshooting Tips
There are a few common issues that can arise during the process of connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground and some easy ways to manage them. First, you may have a problem with the jointing wrap not sealing the joint. In this case, you can try resealing the joint with more PVC cement or using a different jointing wrap. Another common issue is air leaking into the joint. If you notice that there is air in the joint, you can try re-flushing the joint with water until the air is removed. You may also encounter problems with the amount of pressure in the joint. If the pressure is too high, there is a risk that the joint will burst. This is more common when connecting PVC to cast iron pipes underground. There are a few things you can do to manage this issue, including reducing the flow to the joint and adding a pressure-reducing joint.
Conclusion
When connecting PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground, you want to make sure to do it correctly. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to ensure a successful connection. You can start by preparing the cast iron pipes, joining the two pipes together, and then securing the joint. Once you have tested the connection, you can wrap up the joint and manage any potential problems that may arise. With these simple steps, you can successfully connect PVC to cast iron sewer pipes underground and make sure that your project is done correctly and safely.
