Waste pipes are essential components in plumbing systems, connecting appliances like sinks, baths, and basins to a soil pipe, which eventually leads to the underground drainage system. Waste pipes come in two main types: Push Fit and Solvent Weld. Each has its unique features, benefits, and applications. Here's a detailed look at both systems and how they differ.
1. Jointing Process
Push Fit: No glue or sealant required. Uses a small rubber ring inside each joint that creates a watertight seal when the pipe is pushed into the fitting. Easy to install: Simply cut the pipe square, clean the edges, and push it into the fitting. Demountable: Push Fit connections can be taken apart and reassembled if needed.
Solvent Weld: Requires solvent cement: The process involves applying solvent cement to the inside of the fitting and the outside of the pipe before pushing them together and giving a slight twist. Permanent: Once the solvent cement bonds the pipe and fitting, the joint is permanent and cannot be separated without damaging the system.
2. Materials
Push Fit: Made from Polypropylene, a strong and flexible plastic, ideal for quick installations.
Solvent Weld: Typically made from ABS Plastic (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) or sometimes PVC. ABS is durable, resilient, and more suitable for permanent joints.
3. Strength and Durability
Push Fit: Ideal for applications where future modifications or dismantling may be required. It's also a great choice for DIY installations.
Solvent Weld: Best suited for areas subject to high impact or heavy use, such as external walls, public buildings, or commercial installations. The joint is permanent, providing stronger and more secure connections.
4. Appearance
Which System Is Best?
Push Fit: Quick installation: Excellent for situations where easy assembly and future disassembly are required. Suitable for internal systems where the pipework is not exposed to significant impact.
Solvent Weld: More permanent: Ideal for external applications or places where the system is likely to be impacted, such as on external walls or in high-traffic areas. Stronger connections: Offers a more robust and long-lasting solution in places where a permanent, secure joint is needed.
Compatibility with Other Manufacturers
Floplast Push Fit and ABS waste pipes are compatible with other systems (e.g., Hepworth, Brett Martin, Osma, Polypipe, Terrain, Marley, and Hunter) as long as the same types of systems are used (Push Fit with Push Fit, and Solvent Weld with Solvent Weld). However, mixing Push Fit and Solvent Weld connections in the same system is not recommended.
Connecting to Other Materials (Lead or Copper)
The Floplast MultiFit Compression Waste system can be used to connect Floplast waste pipes to other materials like lead or copper waste pipes. It also allows you to connect Push Fit and Solvent Weld systems together.
Conclusion
Push Fit is ideal for quick and flexible installations, especially where dismantling or modifications may be required.
Solvent Weld is better for more permanent, high-strength applications, particularly where impact resistance or long-term durability is essential.
Both systems offer easy installation and reliability, so the choice ultimately depends on your specific needs, the environment, and whether you prefer a more temporary or permanent solution.
