Chloe Zhang
Glued ABS pipes can be a tricky plumbing problem to navigate. ABS glue, also known as solvent welding, creates a strong bond that is difficult to break. Some methods to separate these pipes include using a RamBit tool, which cuts the pipe out of the fitting, allowing for a new piece to be glued in. However, one must be careful not to go too deep and cut the hub off the fitting. Other methods include using a hacksaw or sawzall, or unthreading the pipe from the chrome drain piece. For those willing to invest, the Reed fitting reamer is a pricier but effective option.
How to unglue ABS plastic pipe
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of glue | Solvent welding |
| Tool | RamBit, hacksaw/sawzall, socket saver, or a kit like the Golden Pipe Shredder |
| Precautions | Be careful not to cut too deeply, or you will cut the hub off the fitting |
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What You'll Learn
Use a RamBit tool to cut the pipe out
If you're looking to remove a piece of ABS pipe from a glued fitting, a RamBit tool can be used to cut the pipe out. The RamBit is a plastic fitting saver tool designed to cut the pipe out of the hub of the fitting so you can glue a new piece of pipe.
It's important to note that you will need to buy one RamBit tool for each size of pipe. For example, if you need one for a 2" pipe, you will need a 2" RamBit. Be careful not to go too deep with the RamBit, as you may cut the hub off the fitting, making it difficult to attach a new pipe without replacing the fitting.
The RamBit tool can be used with a right-angle drill to fit into tight spaces. It is also recommended to use a hammer drill in hammer drill mode to get past any cement. Ensure that the locking nut is as tight as possible to avoid any slippage.
One popular RamBit tool is the Pasco 3244 2" Ram Bit, which can be purchased on Amazon. This tool can be used to drill out PVC fittings and reuse the same fitting. It is important to note that the instructions state to not remove all the old pipe or damage the original stop.
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Cut with a hacksaw or sawzall
Using a hacksaw or a sawzall to cut ABS plastic pipes is a recommended approach by many plumbing experts. However, it is important to remember that power tools do not work well on ABS pipes, and they may melt and burn the plastic, creating a mess. Therefore, it is generally advised to use a hacksaw or a sawzall by hand.
When using a hacksaw, it is important to mark the pipe before cutting. Hacksaw frames with adjustable mounting angles for the blade are available, making it easier to cut the pipe at the desired angle. Choose a blade with aggressive teeth to help cut through the plastic more effectively. It is also important to cut in short bursts to prevent the blade from overheating and melting the plastic.
Sawzalls are another effective option for cutting ABS plastic pipes. Similar to using a hacksaw, it is recommended to use a sawzall with aggressive teeth and cut in short bursts to manage the melting plastic factor. Additionally, ensure that you cut as straight as possible to achieve a clean cut.
When using either a hacksaw or a sawzall, it is crucial to prioritize safety. Wear eye protection and gloves to safeguard against any plastic shards that may be produced during the cutting process. It is also important to be mindful of the surrounding environment and ensure that there are no flammable materials nearby that could be ignited by the plastic debris.
After cutting the ABS plastic pipe with a hacksaw or sawzall, it is important to remove any burs or plastic shards left behind. This can be done using a reaming tool or a file. Ensuring a clean and smooth finish is essential for effective plumbing connections and preventing leaks.
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Unthread from the chrome drain piece
Unthreading the chrome drain piece is one of the ways to separate ABS pipes that have been glued together. ABS glue, also called solvent welding, creates a strong chemical reaction that basically welds the pipe together, so you are not likely to be able to pull them apart.
To unthread the chrome drain piece, you will first need to identify the nut on the end of the chrome trap's bend. This can be done by eye. Once you have located the nut, you can try to remove it by hand. If it is too tight to remove by hand, you may need to use a wrench or pliers to loosen it. Be careful not to apply too much force, as this could damage the nut or the trap.
Once the nut is removed, you can pull off the plastic compression washer. This will expose the vertical PVC pipe running down from the sink's drain hole. Push the nut up onto this pipe, and then push the compression washer up onto the pipe as well.
Now, you will need to loosen the nut holding the trap's bent section to its straight section. This can be done by hand, or with a wrench if necessary. Be careful not to overtighten the nut, as this could damage the threads or the trap. Once the nut is loosened, you can separate the chrome drain piece from the ABS pipe.
It is important to note that this process may vary depending on the specific configuration of your plumbing. Before beginning any work, it is always a good idea to consult a professional or refer to a trusted guide. Additionally, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions when working with plumbing, including wearing protective gear and ensuring that the area is well-ventilated.
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Use a pipe shredder kit
Using a pipe shredder kit is an effective way to unglue ABS plastic pipes. This method is particularly useful if you are dealing with a solvent weld joint, where the glue has melted and fused the pipe together.
One popular pipe shredder kit is the "Golden Pipe Shredder" by Rectorseal. This kit includes a range of cutter sizes from 1-1/2" to 4", providing versatility for different pipe sizes. The cutters are designed to aggressively remove the glued pipe, but it is important to use them with caution to avoid splitting the fitting. A right-angle drill can be helpful for manoeuvring the cutters in tight spaces.
When using a pipe shredder kit, it is crucial to follow the correct procedure to ensure safe and effective results. Firstly, ensure you have the appropriate size cutter for your pipe. Position the cutter at the desired location and activate the tool, allowing it to cut through the glued section of the pipe. Apply steady pressure, but be mindful not to cut too deeply, as you risk damaging the hub of the fitting, making it challenging to attach a new pipe.
After successfully cutting through the glued section, you can proceed to remove the old pipe and prepare the fitting for a new one. Clean the inside of the fitting with PVC solvent and apply PVC glue liberally to ensure a watertight joint when installing the new pipe.
Using a pipe shredder kit offers a more efficient and specialised approach to unglue ABS plastic pipes compared to manual methods. While it may come at a higher cost, investing in such a kit can be advantageous for plumbers or individuals frequently tackling plumbing projects.
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Try a fitting reamer
If you are looking to remove glued ABS fittings from a plastic pipe, a fitting reamer is a useful tool. Fitting reamers are designed to clean out the inside of the hub on the fitting mechanically.
One such tool is the Reed fitting reamer, which is a more expensive option but is worth the investment if you are a professional plumber. It features a four-faced carbide blade that can be rotated when it wears down, and each side lasts a long time.
Another option is the Jones Stephens fitting reamer, which is a more cost-effective choice for a one-time job.
If you are looking for a more affordable solution and don't mind some manual work, you can use a chisel, file, sandpaper, or similar tools to clean out the horn of the fitting. This method may not result in a perfect fit, but it can be improved by applying a generous amount of solvent to create a good seal.
It is important to note that ABS glue, also known as solvent welding, creates a strong bond, so simply pulling the pipes apart or applying heat will not be effective methods for separating them.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need a tool called a RamBit, which is designed to cut the pipe out of the hub of the fitting so you can glue a new piece of pipe.
Yes, you will need to buy one tool for each pipe size. For example, if you need one for a 2" pipe, you will need a 2" RamBit.
Yes, there is a kit called the "Golden Pipe Shredder" by Rectorseal, which uses cutters rather than fan-type blades. You can also use a right-angle drill to fit in tight spaces.
No, heat will not work to separate ABS pipes. ABS glue is also called solvent welding, and once it sets, you are not likely to be able to pull the pipes apart.
ABS glue is a type of solvent welding that creates a chemical reaction, basically welding the pipe together.
