Kitec Installation with K2 Crimp Fittings

Handling

Kitec pipe may be supplied in coils or straight lengths. When laying out Kitec, stand the roll upright. Hold down the leading end and roll out the coil. The pipe will lie straight with no tendency to recoil

Tools Required

Cutting and Joining Kitec

1. Cut the pipe square. A plastic pipe cutter should be used. Ensure that the stainless steel cutting blade is sharp and in good condition.

2. Push the K2 nickel plated soft copper crimp ring onto the pipe. Bevel the inside of the pipe by rotating the beveling tool 360°. The fitting will then slip easily into the pipe without damaging or displacing the o-rings.

3. Push the fitting onto the pipe 1/16" (1 to 2 mm) from the shoulder of the fitting. If necessary, at this point the fitting can be rotated on the pipe to facilitate threading onto a valve, tee, etc.

4. Position the crimp ring on the pipe so that the edge of the ring is 1/8" to 1/4" (3 to 6 mm) from the end of the pipe. Center the jaws of the K2 crimping tool around the ring and hold the tool at a right angle to the pipe and fitting. Completely close the jaws of the tool around the ring to properly crimp the fitting. Care should be taken not to twist the tool while crimping or disengaging the crimp tool.

5. Check the crimp diameter of each joint with the go-gauge provided. The gauge should fit over the compressed crimp ring which ensures a proper joint. Joints that do not pass the gage test should be cut out. The K2 crimp tool should be recalibrated before doing the next joint.

Bending Kitec Pipe

• Kitec pipe is easy to bend and unlike plastic pipes, retains the shape of the bend.
• External bending springs and standard tube benders are available.
• Depending on your strength, you may elect to bend the pipe by hand.
• If the bending radius is near the recommended limit of 5D (five times the diameter of the pipe), a bending tool should be used.

Although Kitec pipe contains an aluminum layer, its joining system is not designed to provide electrical continuity. AWWA does not recommend the grounding of electrical systems to metallic plumbing and service pipes. A separate grounding rod or plate should be used (check with your local authority).

While Kitec will withstand freezing conditions better than copper, we recommend that it be insulated to prevent freezing. Thawing can be done using a hot water injection method.

Kitec pipe contains a UV inhibitor to withstand some exposure to ultraviolet light.

Information Source: IPEX, Inc.