The gauge is one of the quality controls of the system. It verifies firstly that the ring has been crimped and secondly, that it has been compressed enough. Gauging of the compressed ring should be done regularly throughout each job. When using the gauge, slide the opening over the compressed ring. It should slide easily over the ring. Do not place the gauge over the pipe and then move it back along the pipe and over the ring. This may not give a true reading. If the gauge is lost, it should be replaced immediately.
The plastic ring on the fitting is only there to hold the crimp ring to the fitting. It plays no part in the integrity of the joint. It may behave differently after crimping, however as a general rule, the back of this ring should be flush against the body of the fitting and the crimp ring should be attached to it. This starting position will also help to ensure full penetration of the fitting inside the pipe.
Pipe that comes out of the crimped ring at an angle may indicate that the pipe is not covering all of the barbs on one side. This situation may occur if a tight bend is made close to a joint or if the pipe has moved in some way prior to crimping. Where possible, crimp the fitting before making the tight bend and install a clip close to the joint between the bend and the joint. Use a bend stabiliser to avoid stress on the joint.
Auspex has a range of adaptors, which are identified by a different coloured plastic ring. Do not join Auspex pipe by using a fitting with a coloured ring. To identify the uses for these adaptors, consult your supplier or Auspex directly.
When crimping fittings which are flush to frames etc, check to ensure that the crimp ring has not pinched on the back side. Rings which are pinched in this manner should be replaced.
The clips should be installed so that the pipe can move freely through the clip. Plastic clips are recommended
Threaded fittings are available to make the transition between PE-X pipe and other materials.
Flared copper compression to AUSPEX adaptors are available.
Brazing adaptors are available, designed so that one end can:
Measure the pipe to the correct length and using a secateur type tool, cut the pipe squarely and remove any burrs. If the pipe is witness marked, cut squarely in the centre of the mark. Do not use a hacksaw. The end of the pipe may need to be freshly cut to ensure smooth passage for the fitting.
If the pipe is not witness marked, use the witness marking tool to mark the correct depth, or measure the depth of the joint and mark this depth on the pipe to ensure the pipe is fully penetrated. The joint depth for all pipe sizes (16-20&25mm) is 11mm. The pipe is pushed over the barbed fitting and at the same time under the crimp ring. The fit should be firm. If the joint feels sloppy or hard to insert, check pipe and fittings. Do not use lubricants.
Centralise the tool jaws over the crimp ring at 90deg. to the joint. Close the tool completely to compress the crimp ring. The tool will click at final compression.
Check with the gauge supplied by sliding the opening of the gauge over the compressed ring. If it passes over the ring easily, the joint has been completed satisfactorily. If the gauge does not pass over the ring, the joint is under crimped. The tool should then be adjusted. (See adjustment instructions). Do not double crimp.
To ensure the joint is not stressed, use a bend support or clip.
Pressure test the system in accordance with A.S.3500 parts 1 & 4 or in accordance with local requirements. Cut out any defective joints. Fittings can be re-used by cutting off the compressed ring and replacing with a new ring. Ensure that no damage is done to the brass barbs when cutting off the ring or removing the pipe.
Test system as required in A.S.3500.
