How to bend Pex tubing without kinking?

Hey there! If you're in the plumbing game or just a DIY enthusiast, you've probably dealt with Pex tubing at some point. Pex tubing is awesome – it's flexible, durable, and easy to work with. But one of the biggest headaches when working with it is bending it without kinking. Trust me, I know. As a Pex tubing supplier, I've seen it all. So, let's dive into how you can bend Pex tubing like a pro without those pesky kinks.

Why Kinking is a Big Deal

First off, why should you care about kinking? Well, a kink in your Pex tubing can restrict the flow of water. That means reduced water pressure in your plumbing system, which is a real bummer. It can also lead to clogs over time as debris gets caught in the kinked area. Plus, kinked tubing is more likely to develop leaks, which can cause water damage to your property. So, it's definitely worth taking the time to learn how to bend it properly.

Tools You'll Need

Before you start bending, you'll need a few tools. The most important one is a Pex bending spring. These springs are made of coiled metal and come in different sizes to fit various diameters of Pex tubing. You can also use a Pex bending tool, which is a bit more expensive but can make the bending process even easier. Other than that, you'll just need a sharp utility knife to cut the tubing to the right length.

Preparing the Tubing

Once you have your tools ready, it's time to prepare the Pex tubing. Start by measuring and cutting the tubing to the desired length. Make sure to use a sharp utility knife and cut the tubing at a 90-degree angle for a clean cut. After cutting, remove any burrs or rough edges from the cut end of the tubing using a deburring tool or a piece of sandpaper.

Using a Bending Spring

Now, let's talk about using a bending spring. Insert the bending spring into the Pex tubing at the point where you want to make the bend. Make sure the spring is inserted all the way to the end of the area you want to bend. Then, slowly bend the tubing around a curved object, like a pipe or a piece of wood. The bending spring will help keep the tubing from kinking as you bend it. Once you've made the bend, carefully remove the bending spring from the tubing.

Using a Bending Tool

If you have a Pex bending tool, the process is even easier. First, adjust the bending tool to the correct diameter of the Pex tubing. Then, place the tubing in the bending tool at the point where you want to make the bend. Squeeze the handles of the bending tool together to make the bend. The bending tool will apply even pressure to the tubing, preventing it from kinking. After making the bend, remove the tubing from the bending tool.

Tips for Bending Pex Tubing

• Keep it slow and steady: When bending the tubing, take your time and make the bend slowly. This will help prevent kinking and ensure a smooth bend.
• Use a heat gun (if necessary): If you're having trouble bending the tubing, you can use a heat gun to warm up the tubing. The heat will make the tubing more flexible and easier to bend. Just make sure not to overheat the tubing, as this can damage it.
• Test the bend: After making the bend, check to make sure there are no kinks or other defects in the tubing. You can do this by looking at the bend from different angles and running your fingers along the bent area. If you find any kinks, try bending the tubing again using one of the methods described above.

Applications of Pex Tubing

Pex tubing is used in a wide range of applications, including residential and commercial plumbing systems. It's commonly used for water supply lines, radiant floor heating systems, and snow melting systems. PE-Xa Pipe NSF is a type of Pex tubing that meets strict NSF standards for use in potable water systems. PE-Xa Pipe for Plumbing Pipe is specifically designed for use in plumbing applications, while PEX Pipe for Water Supply is ideal for supplying water to fixtures and appliances.

Conclusion

Bending Pex tubing without kinking is definitely a skill that takes a bit of practice, but with the right tools and techniques, you can do it like a pro. Remember to use a bending spring or a bending tool, take your time, and test the bend to make sure it's smooth and kink-free. If you have any questions or need more information about Pex tubing, feel free to reach out to us. We're a Pex tubing supplier, and we're here to help you with all your plumbing needs. Whether you're a professional plumber or a DIY enthusiast, we have the right Pex tubing and accessories for your project. So, don't hesitate to contact us for all your Pex tubing requirements. Let's work together to make your plumbing projects a success!

References

• "Pex Tubing Installation Guide." Plumbing Supply Company.
• "How to Bend Pex Tubing." DIY Plumbing Magazine.