There are a few ways to connect PEX pipes to fittings and other pipes. When using PEX-A and PEX-B tubing, crimp and cinch connections are often the way to go. Both of these methods consist of compressing a ring over the pipe with a special tool. These methods are not the same although their basic principle is similar. In this blog post, we will break down the advantages of crimp and cinch connections.
Cinch connections are also known as clamp connections. They consist of a cinch clamp, special cinch tool and proper fittings. This method is much easier to work with in confined spaces because the tool doesn't wrap around the tube. The cinch tool works with multiple PEX sizes, unlike the crimp tool that is made for a specific size. Asides for its versatility, the cinch tool is also cheaper than the crimp tool. The cinch rings can be slightly more expensive than crimp rings. A cinch connection will last over 5 years and can last more than 10 years.
Crimp connections consist or a crimp ring, a crimp tool, proper fittings and a go/no-go gauge. When done right, this type of connection is a fast and inexpensive way of connecting PEX. The rings and tools are easily available at many retailers. The only way to tell if a connection is properly done is by using the go/no-go gauge. Put the gauge over the ring and if it doesn't slide all the way than the connection is fine. The downsides of crimp connections are that it can be hard to work with in confined spaces and the connection will loosen with time, which creates leaks.
At the end of the day, both cinch and crimp connections are good. It all comes down to a few factors such as budget, convenience and size of the area being worked on. Remember to always start with a clean, square cut pipe.
At last, it's important to know that copper crimp rings follow two standards: ASTM F1807 for metal insert fittings and ASTM F2159 for plastic insert fittings. Stainless steel cinch rings fall under the ASTM F2098 standard.
We offer everything you'll need to make crimp and cinch connections. Here's a list of items:
