If local codes permit, successful joints can be made without a primer using the cement alone (one step), but extra care must be given to the installation. It is important that a good interference fit exists between the pipe and fittings. It is for this reason we recommend that joints being made without a primer be limited to systems 2" diameter and smaller for pressure applications, or 6" diameter and smaller for DWV or non-pressure applications.

Extra care must also be given in applying the cements to make sure proper penetration and softening of the pipe and fitting surfaces is achieved.

1. Assemble materials needed for the installation (the proper cement and applicator for the size of pipe and fittings to be assembled).

2. Pipe must be cut as square as possible. A diagonal cut reduces bonding area in the most effective part of the joint.

3. Remove all burrs from both inside and outside of the pipe with a knife, file or reamer. Burrs can scrape channels into pre-softened surfaces or create hang-ups inside surface walls.

4. Remove dirt, grease and moisture. A thorough wipe with a clean dry rag is usually sufficient. Moisture will retard cure and dirt or grease can prevent adhesion.

5. Check pipe and fittings for dry fit.  For proper interference fit, the pipe must go easily into the fitting 1/4 to 3/4 of the way, but not bottom. (A good interference fit is desired for a one-step installation).

6. Check for penetration and softening of the pipe's surface. Take a scrap piece of the pipe you will be using and make a normal application of the cement. Then immediately, using a knife or other sharp object, try to scratch or scrape a few thousandths of the surface away. If you are able to do so, proceed with installation. If not, try making a more aggressive application of the cement on the scrap piece of pipe and check for penetration as noted above. If you still are unable to achieve penetration or softening of the pipe's surface, you may want to consider the use of a primer.

7. Using the correct size applicator (1/2 the pipe diameter), aggressively work solvent cement on the end of the pipe equal to the depth of the fitting socket.

8. Next, aggressively work cement into fitting socket - being careful not to get cement into waterway.

9. Then apply a second layer of cement on to the end of the pipe equal to the depth of the fitting socket.

10. Immediately and while the surfaces are still wet, assemble the pipe and the fitting, using sufficient force to ensure that the pipe bottoms into the fitting socket. If possible, twist the pipe 1/4 turn as you insert it.

11. Hold the pipe and fitting together for approximately 30 seconds to eliminate push out.

12. After assembly, the joint should have a ring or bead of cement completely around the juncture of the pipe and fitting. If voids in this ring are present, sufficient cement was not applied and the joint may be defective. Using a rag, remove all the excess cement from the pipe and fitting, including the ring or bead.

13. Follow IPS Weld-On recommended set and cure times before handling or testing the piping system.