In the installation of piping systems, the connection method plays a special role. Obviously, the master must ensure maximum tightness of the circuits, whether it be a sewer system or a typical water supply. In this case, there are a lot of ways to reduce the two ends of different pipes. Perhaps the most technological methods include soldering. But it is not always possible. As an alternative, it makes sense to use a bell. This is a special expansion at the end of the pipe, through which a rather tight and tight connection is also realized.
What is a bell?
Externally, the design of the end of the pipe with a bell resembles a funnel. In essence, this is a kind of tip in the form of a segment with extensions. The other end of the pipe is introduced into it, after which it is fixed. That is, a bell is an element due to which structural support of the connection is provided. Another thing is that the quality of this knot will be affected by the main way of fastening two different endings.
In this case, the bell cannot be considered only as a funnel, which is mounted on a particular pipe. In the device of modern tips of this type, both metal locking components and o-rings are provided. The task of auxiliary fittings, which is supplemented by a pipe with a bell, is to prevent physical discrepancy between the main structure and the funnel, as well as to increase the tightness of the connecting unit.
How is a bell formed?
The installation of the bell can only be carried out on a properly prepared base. This should be a pipe with an edge on which the chamfer is of the order of 15 degrees. Typically, the bell itself is made of polymeric material, and the target structure can be represented by metal. When selecting sizes, it is important to take into account that the inner diameter of the socket must correspond to the thickness of the pipe according to an external indicator.
Next, fixation is performed using sealing materials. At the same time, the socket of the sewer pipe can be equipped with two o-rings at the basic connection. This will greatly increase the reliability of the circuit. All operations at this stage are preferably performed with strict expectation of further connection with another pipe. Therefore, for example, the parameters of the entire structure along the length should be calculated in advance.
Varieties of pipes with a bell
The classification is based on the manufacturing material of the main pipe. Sockets can be used to equip cast iron, steel, reinforced concrete and ceramic models. Each material assumes its own approach to providing reinforcement, individual nuances of further connection with another ending.
For example, a cast-iron bell can be used in pipelines for various purposes, including when equipping sewer infrastructure. But the main difference between such pipes, from the point of view of using the socket, is in the approaches to installation. So, the main hitch is made using sealing material, but without the use of lubricating components. But in other cases, they use a variety of connection methods, which are worth considering in more detail.
Ways to ensure the tightness of the connection
In the installation, experts recommend the use of adhesive bonding, locking components, as well as welding. At the same time, the bell joint itself provides basic traction support. The simplest solution is the use of sealing locking materials. Proper installation will ensure both rigidity and tightness. This option is usually used if you want to implement a household pipeline channel. In this case, the sewer socket, supplemented with seals, will cost inexpensively and at the same time provide optimal efficiency.
Adhesive bonding can serve as an auxiliary adhesive bond. It significantly increases the reliability of the design, but may not be used with every material. As for soldering, then it has its limitations in terms of use. In this case, the pipe material and the conditions that exclude the possibility of working with such equipment can become a barrier to welding.
Pros and cons of connecting through a bell
The advantages of the bell include the provision of reliable mechanical protection. With this equipment, the seam can be protected from damage by external fittings, as well as from climatic influences. Actually, it could be used in each case of the implementation of the connection, but there are certain limitations. In particular, the presence of a bell will not allow the user to perform a truly high-quality sealing with special compounds. This is the main disadvantage of this device. It is important not to forget that the bell is a kind of nozzle, which, in essence, hides the junction, and also excludes access to it.
Conclusion
Installation through a bell is the best option for connection. It is used in the maintenance of industrial pipelines, and in domestic repair operations. However, when referring to this method of implementation of the joint, it is important not to forget that such a scheme will provide additional structural seal, which is not always appropriate. But, if the installation was carried out correctly and without violating the technology of sealing information, you can count on the long-term use of the circuit.
In terms of reliability and endurance, a bell is a suitable option not only for private drainage networks. It is also used in the maintenance of plumbing in public and industrial premises. Another thing is that in such cases, fittings with technical and operational qualities of a different, higher level are used. For example, the quality of the connection will depend on the origin of the material from which the bell is made. It has already been noted that it is more often produced from polymers. But there are also special modifications of plastics, designed for durable operation in harsh conditions.