Which term describes joining plastic pipe to fittings by chemical fusion?

Which term describes joining plastic pipe to fittings by chemical fusion?

• A. Solvent Weld
• B. Solder
• C. Brazing
• D. Compression

Answer: (A)

Joining plastic pipe to fittings by chemical fusion is achieved with solvent weld. The solvent cement softens the plastic surfaces so the pipe and fitting fuse together as the solvent evaporates, creating a joint that becomes one continuous piece of material. This method is common for PVC and CPVC (and ABS with the appropriate cement). The typical process involves cleaning and priming the surfaces, applying the solvent cement to both the pipe end and the fitting, inserting the pipe fully, and holding it in place until the joint sets. This approach contrasts with soldering or brazing, which use metal filler and high heat for copper or other metals, and with compression joints, which seal with a gasket and nut without fusing the plastics. When cured properly, solvent-welded joints form a strong, leak-resistant plastic connection.

Joining plastic pipe to fittings by chemical fusion is achieved with solvent weld. The solvent cement softens the plastic surfaces so the pipe and fitting fuse together as the solvent evaporates, creating a joint that becomes one continuous piece of material. This method is common for PVC and CPVC (and ABS with the appropriate cement). The typical process involves cleaning and priming the surfaces, applying the solvent cement to both the pipe end and the fitting, inserting the pipe fully, and holding it in place until the joint sets. This approach contrasts with soldering or brazing, which use metal filler and high heat for copper or other metals, and with compression joints, which seal with a gasket and nut without fusing the plastics. When cured properly, solvent-welded joints form a strong, leak-resistant plastic connection.