At temperatures below freezing, solvent penetrate and soften the surfaces more slowly than in warmer weather. For this reason it is recommended that testing be done on a piece of scrap pipe of the same lot to determine if satisfactory penetration on the surfaces can be achieved at existing temperature. This test can be done by applying the primer waiting a few minutes and scraping the surface with a knife edge. If sufficient penetration is achieved, some of the plastic surface of the pipe should be soft enough to be removed. If sufficient penetration is not achieved, even with multiple applications of primer, it is unlikely that a suitable joint will result. Individual scrap tests may be needed for pipes and fittings from different manufacturers or even for pipes and fittings of different lots from the same manufacturer because of possible surface variations. Furthermore, it is good practice to use this test, regardless of ambient temperatures, not only because of possible surface variations in pipes and fittings, but also because of difference in pipe primers formulations. If satisfactory penetration of joining surfaces does not occur when tested as outlined above with available cements or primers, contact your pipe, fitting, cement, or primer manufacturer before proceeding.
Important Considerations for Cementing In Cold Weather Are Listed Below: Prefabricate as much of the system as possible in a heated work area.Store sealed cements and primers between 40 to 70 degrees F. when not in use and make sure they remain fluid.Take special care to remove moisture, including ice and snow, from pipe and fitting surfaces before applying primer or cements.Always use primer to soften the joining surfaces before applying cement. More than one application may be necessary in extreme cold temperatures.Allow a longer cure time before the system is used. This is necessary because the solvents evaporate more slowly in cold temperatures.Do not use open flame or electric heaters to warm cements or primers. |
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