Proper Tubing Preparation

Tube end preparation is essential in assuring leak-free systems. Some important points to consider are:

• Handling Tubing
• Cutting Tube End with either a tube cutter or hacksaw
• Deburring the tube end
• Cleaning the tube end

Handling Tubing

After tubing has been properly selected and ordered, careful handling is important.

From the receiving dock to point of installation, special attention is necessary to prevent scratching and burring the O.D. of the tubing. This is especially important for gas service. Low-density gases such as helium and argon cannot be sealed with damaged tubing.

Make certain not to drag tubing across any surfaces such as truck beds, shelves, or storage racks, the floor and (or) ground of any plant/construction site.This is important for tubing of all materials, particularly for copper and aluminum. Besides scratching, improper handling can create out-of-round tubing. Out-of-round tubing will not fit the I.D. of the ferrule(s) or the body bore properly and will cause leakage.

Cutting the Tube End

To insure a good joint, tube must be cut off square. This can be accomplished with either a tube cutter or hacksaw.

Figure 4 Enlarged section of tube showing differences in tubing cut with a tube cutter (a) and a hacksaw (b).

Tubing Cutters are more commonly utilized on softer tubing such as copper, aluminum or even “soft” steel tubing. If a tube cutter is utilized with stainless steel tubing, remember that a special cutting wheel, designed for use with stainless steel tubing should be employed. The use of dull or improper cutting wheels can work harden the S.S. tubing near the cut area. This CAN adversely affect the fittings sealing ability.

Cutting with a Hacksaw - When using a hacksaw to cut off tubing, it is essential to use a guide to assure square cutoffs. We recommend Parker's Tru-Kut vise Model #710439. (See below) Further, to minimize the residual burrs, a hacksaw blade of 32 teeth per inch minimum is suggested.

Deburring the Tube End

The burrs formed by either the tube cutter or hacksaw must be removed prior to assembly to prevent those burrs from eventually damaging the system. O.D. burrs can prevent tubing from seating properly in a fitting body. I.D. burrs can restrict flow, as well as possibly break loose and damage fine filtration elements.
Note: Do not over deburr the O.D. of tubing.

You may deburr the tubing with your choice of file(s), or utilize Parker’s IN-EX De-Burring tool Model #226. This tool can be used to deburr both the I.D. & O.D. of tubing sizes 1/8” thru 1-1/2”.

 

 

Cleaning the Tube End

After you deburr the tubing, it is essential to remove burrs from the tubing line. This can be accomplished by:

1. Flushing with solvent or low pressure compressed air.
2. Swab with lint-free cloth.

Again, this should prevent entrapping one of these small burrs down-stream where it might do some system damage.

If you would like more information about Parker Tube Fitting Tools or other Parker Products please contact Forberg Scienfitic customer service.
Toll Free: 855-288-5330
Email: mechanicalsales@forberg.com