How to glue a waterproof HDPE pipe to metal

PE Fusion is a high-strength modified acrylic adhesive designed for coupling and splicing an HDPE pipe to standard PVC couplings and other non-standard materials such as steel, fiberglass, and aluminum. It securely bonds all surface types and is ideal for splicing underground utilities, which gives you flexibility in conduit selection and installation, knowing that PE Fusion will create a watertight, permanent bond.

Advantages of PE Fusion

The benefits of the PE Fusion system include the following:

Flexible:

A product that can bond with other dissimilar materials lightens the load of your gear. PE Fusion is designed for the coupling and splicing of various conduits - HDPE pipe to standard PVC couplings and even other non-standard materials like aluminum, steel, and fiberglass. 

Strong:

A high-strength bond that does not break if the joint is stressed or impacted means that further digging is not needed. PE Fusion creates a strong, lasting bond between PE and PVC.

Reliable:

Mechanical bonds are vulnerable to failure. PE Fusion is a modified acrylic adhesive that chemically bonds polyolefin to dissimilar materials for a joint you can rely on. 

Fast-acting:

Time is money. Depending on the ambient temperature, PE Fusion sets in three to five minutes and cures completely within 24 hours.

Economical:

Not only is PE Fusion longer-lasting than mechanical couplings, but it is also more cost-effective. Any adhesive remaining in the cartridge can be saved for future applications.

Achieving the perfect PE Fusion connection

Preparation and thoroughness are paramount. You should apply PE Fusion to clean surfaces that have been scraped or roughed up using a pipe scraping tool or scuff pad. Scrape or rough up the joining surfaces, including the conduit end and the inside coupling, and have all joints ready to accept the PE Fusion. Once PE Fusion is applied, you will need to work quickly and efficiently. You should wear rubber/latex gloves to avoid skin contact and assist with spreading and applying PE Fusion with your finger to the contact surfaces.

Instructions:

1. Unlock the cartridge-retaining collar by lifting the collar’s black latch at the top of the tool, and then rotate the collar forward. Lift the metal tab at the rear of the application tool and then slide the plunger into the front with the ratchet teeth down. Slide the plunger to the back of the tool before releasing the metal tab. Insert the cartridge into the wide slot in the collar. Push the collar back and press firmly onto the front of the collar until it snaps into place. Remove the cartridge cap (save the cap for resealing).

2. Pump the handle gently to seat the plunger and extrude a small amount of adhesive from the front of the cartridge, ensuring a proper 10:1 ratio.

3. Place a new static mixer on the tip of the cartridge and then twist until it locks into place. Pump the handle a few times until the material flows into the static mixer. As the material passes through the static mixer, it should change to a uniform color. The material needs to be consistent (with no streaks) before use. 

4. Using a scuff sheet or pipe scraper, rough up the conduit exterior and the coupling inside to apply the PE Fusion.

5. Place the tip of the static mixer against the conduit. Apply the PE Fusion completely around the conduit. Using a latex glove, spread PE Fusion with your finger over the surface of the pipe and inside the coupling. Apply sufficient PE Fusion to ensure that a small residual bead is rolled up at the top of the coupling after inserting the conduit into the coupling. Insert the conduit into the coupling end, turning the coupling as you push it onto the conduit. PE Fusion will be set up in 3-5 minutes (depending on ambient temperature).

PE Fusion is the perfect adhesive to use when building and repairing HDPE pipelines. For more information, contact GRA Services today.