How To Connect Galvanized Pipe Without Threads (Do This!)
Galvanized pipes are considered to be one of the most sturdy types of piping that you can get for plumbing. In most cases, this type of piping will have threads at each end. Therefore, most of these pipes are going to be threaded together with a twisting motion. However, some pipes won’t have threading. Obviously, they still need to be connected. The question is, how do you do it?
To connect unthreaded galvanized piping, you will need to use a coupling to place the two pipes together. Once you have selected the correct coupling, you will need to use fastening bolts and a torque wrench to keep the two pipes coupled. To ensure that you get the best results, double-check the type of coupling you use.
Getting galvanized pipes put together is taxing at times, but once you get the hang of it, it’s a cinch. It’s all about the technique that you use and learn. So, let’s talk about how to connect your stuff together without losing your mind.
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The Step By Step: Connecting Two Unthreaded Galvanized Pipes
When you’re working on a site with a lot of galvanized pipes, you’re going to have to make sure that you have a lot of couplings on hand. That aside, learning how to get the pipes joined is usually a two-step process. Here’s how to make it happen.
Begin By Inspecting The Two Pipes
The pipes you want to connect will tell you a lot about the type of coupling that you need. So, now is the time to measure the two. Here’s what you need to know:
- If your pipes have a rough surface, then you will need to have a rough surface coupling. Smooth pipes can use a standard pipe coupling.
- If your two pipes are the same size, then you will be able to use a standard coupling. All you would need to do is match the coupling to the diameter of your pipes. Easy peasy!
- If your two pipes are different sizes, then you will need to source a stepped coupling. You will need to make sure that the coupling’s measurements are the same as the measurements of your two pipes.
Once you have made sure to get the right coupling, it’s time to actually couple the two up. So, let’s take a look at the next step.
Prep Your Pipes
In order for your pipes to fit in the coupling properly, you will need to make sure that they will be flush against the coupling’s walls. To do this, take a level (or ruler) to make sure that they are perfectly straight and square. If they aren’t, use a hacksaw to cut them so that they are. Once they’re good to go, you can move onto the next step.
If your pipe’s edges are rough, sand them down. You want to make sure that they are able to slide with relative ease, and that can’t be done with rough-edged pipes. Wipe your pipes down with a towel and degreaser to ensure they’re clean.
Put The Pipes In The Coupling For A Test Run
After your pipes have been prepped, you can place both of them in the coupling. Adjust them so that they both meet at the center of the coupling. This is actually the easiest step in the process. If you aren’t sure where the center of the coupling is, you can always measure it out. It doesn’t have to be exact, but it does have to be somewhat ballparked.
If they fit in, proceed to the next step. If you find that there is still a little bit of extra material there, then your best bet is to recalibrate and readjust. With enough passes, you will be able to get them to fit into the coupler. (That is, assuming that you bought the right coupler size!)
Add The Piping Fasten The Coupling Into Place
Now that you have done enough to put the pipes in the coupling, you’re going to have to make sure that they don’t slip out. While this might seem like it’s a bit “extra” at times, you need to do this step. No skipping! This is actually a series of steps. Here’s what you will need to do below:
- First, use a ruler and pencil to mark off how deep each coupling has to be in order to meet in the middle. You don’t want to make a mistake with this, trust me. Measure twice, secure once!
- Use a screwdriver to tighten the fastening bolts in place. It should hold the coupling together loosely at first.
- Insert one of the two pipes in. Align the pipe with the mark you made on the pipe.
- Then, insert the second pipe into the coupler. Once again, insert them to the necessary depth.
- Grab your screwdriver and tighten the bolts until they snugly hold your pipes in place. Use a torque wrench to tighten everything until you hear the wrench click off. After this point, you should be done.
Tips On Coupling Unthreaded Galvanized Pipes
Now that we’ve gone through the process, there are a couple of tips that can help you make the most of your pipe coupling time. The tips below are the most well-known:
- Prep your pipes in bulk if you are going to be doing a lot of joining. This is kind of a time-saver, since you don’t want to have to constantly return to different tools over and over again. If all your pipes are prepped at the same time, you will be able to put away the hacksaw and sander.
- Have extra pipes on hand. Sometimes, accidents happen and the pipes get cut slanted or the areas become too sanded down to fit in the coupling.
- Try not to cut off too much of the pipe. If you have to cut the pipe so that it is square, try to cut closer to the pipe’s end.
- It often bodes best to use a black marker or a white crayon to mark off the measurements. This is the easiest way to make sure that you are able to see the mark you need to see when it comes to measurements.
- Keep an eye on the pipe’s marked torque requirement. Each coupler will have a different torque requirement. Abide by it when you are putting together your coupling.
- Whenever possible, try to use threaded galvanized pipes instead. This should be a pretty obvious tip, but it deserves a place on this list. Screwing two pipes together is a lot easier than trying to deal with all the hubbub and hullabaloo of couplers.
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Related Questions
Can you thread a galvanized pipe?
If you have a galvanized pipe that is in need of threading, there’s some good news. You don’t need to be an industrial manufacturer to thread galvanized pipe. While it will require some extra work as well as some specialized tools, but it is possible to do it. You can thread it using steel, copper, plastic, or other material. You will need to purchase the thread separately, too.Don’t want to DIY the threading? Not a problem. Major home improvement stores like Lowe’s and the Home Depot are able to do it for free as long as you buy the piping in the store.
Why is galvanized plumbing bad for your health?
It all has to do with the long-term effects of this kind of plumbing. After years of use as well as exposure to corrosive chemicals, the zinc in galvanized plumbing will start to erode. The same can be said of many types of threading used in this type of plumbing. As the corrosion occurs, the chances of having the plumbing leak out heavy metals skyrockets.As a result of the long-term risk of zinc and lead in your water, it’s often best to minimize the use of galvanized plumbing…or, at least get it replaced.
Will SharkBites work on galvanized pipe?
Galvanized piping is great for lots of different types of pipe cutters. However, SharkBite pipe cutters are not part of that family. Choose another option, if you can.Related Guide
Ossiana Tepfenhart is an expert writer, focusing on interior design and general home tips. Writing is her life, and it's what she does best. Her interests include art and real estate investments.
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