Hey man I got started as a maintenance technician a couple years ago and I could not believe that your content was free, you're the reason people at work think I'm some kind of plumbing genius and I owe my career to you. Your content is invaluable and you're an absolute saint.
I mean just look at what you do man, you have an absolute wealth of knowledge available for beginners and experts alike to take a look at. Your channel has amazing value to young techs and DIY folks wanting to grow their knowledge and skills.
BRAVO....I've been an industrial troubleshooter for 50 years. When plumbing is involved, it is very common to find small pieces of tape lodged in control valves, etc. I quickly learned that it was a very bad idea to put tape on the very first thread, and I have been teaching practice to everyone that I have come in contact with. However, you are the first one that i have every encountered on the web that was wise enough to also teach this practice!
I started this video thinking, "how could you possibly make a video this long about...PTFE?", and was humbled to learn something fundamental in the first few moments. Well done.
Its very rare to find such a thorough and intelligent coverage. I did a 4 year apprenticeship 40 years ago, using lots of thread taped joints, and was an engineer using small pipes for 30 years in the offshore oil industry. New to me are the different types of tape available. The most important thing (you mentioned it) was to leave the first thread bare. That single fact resulted in THREAD TAPE BEING BANNED in offshore and petrochemical pipe applications, because even "trained" technicians couldnt always be trusted to do it, resulting in small fragments floating around and blocking tiny measurement / control orifices, causing shutdowns. Since about 20 years ago they are only allowed to use special jointing fluid instead. Great site. Keep it up. Schaun.
I often use a single wrap of white Teflon on plastic fittings in underground irrigation. Grey pvc has pretty strong friction with itself and the tape lets you get much better thread engagement, and way better control when you need a fitting pointing in the right direction. It never occurred to me that the lubrication was kind of the point for all pipe threads. Great video!
I liked the video and I learned a few things even thought I've been doing plumbing repairs for many years. Three comments: 1. I've never used anything but the cheap white tape that Home Depot and Lowes sells on water lines. I've never noticed any problems except when connecting threaded pipes to plastic sprinkler system valves. Maybe a different tape would make a difference or maybe more or less wraps. I don't know. 2. I believe the primary purpose of Teflon tape is to fill the spiral hole that exists in a male pipe to female pipe connection. If you don't use pipe dope or Teflon table the joint will leak through that spiral. I do like the fact that the Teflon tape lubricates the joint. I think it makes it a little easier to figure out when the joint is sufficiently tightened.because the rise in torque when the joint is sufficiently tightened is more obvious. 3. I always use the yellow tape on gas joints but I have noticed professional plumbers just using white tape although I have also seen them using pipe dope and the while tape on the same joint for gas joints.
"I believe the primary purpose of Teflon tape is to fill the spiral hole that exists in a male pipe to female pipe connection." You are correct. The lubricating properties of Teflon are only a nice bonus, but not the main reason to use it. It is called a "thread sealing tape" for a reason.
Hi! I just wanted to thank you for all your tutorials videos. Especially the ones on copper soldering. Because of these I made multiple succesful reparations in my house that was built in 1961. I never made a single solder before and now I am getting good at it. Thanks again! Great videos!
just got a fresh job at a plumbing company in Ottawa and really focusing on watching your videos now since I know you're a Canadian and a fellow Ontario resident!
Thank you for this good presentation. And RUclips suggesting this video. I learned something. I also applied Teflon tape on many occasions ignoring 95% of what was explained here.. till now. Not mentionned in this video is the reaction of Teflon tape to tightening-loosening-tightening again. It seems that Teflon tape is not designed for this and that it gets unreliable in such a situation. I was told by plumbers who dislike Teflon tape for this reason and prefer to go for classic hemp or flax instead.Because flax allows the user to screw a pipe in and out again without diminishing the capacity to seal pipes of the flax. We have such situations when something like a water tap must be positioned in a certain angle and readjusted slightly when the last turn is done and it turns out that a turn backwards of the tab is required. By the way I discovered "Locktite" sealing cord which I definitely prefer to this Teflon tape and recommend it because it also allows the parts to be moved in and out without diminishing the sealing effect.
So it's Thanksgiving night, I didn't get to eat a lot of turkey this year so I'm not as tired as I usually am after stuffing myself. I decide to watch some RUclips to wind down. A video about ptfe tape is recommended to me, why idk lol. I just lost my father a few weeks ago and he was in the maintenance field and I can remember him telling me some about the colors so I watch the video. You sir have gained a new subscriber! Thank you for the memories!
This is a lesson that all tradesmen should be made aware of, although this video was made a few years ago there’s still numerous tradesmen and tradeswomen out there that are not even familiar that there are different colors of Teflon tape that represents various different application’s, this was a perfect explanation, well done. 👍🏽
Another safety note on heating/burning teflon is that it can act as a powerful oxidizer. If finely divided and mixed with metal shavings (particularly aluminum or magnesium) it can go off like flash powder. Even if it's not that violent, having bits of it in with metal filings can create an unexpected fire hazard.
Thanks for the comprehensive information regarding Teflon tape. Your taking the trouble to back your comments with definitive data technical publications is much appreciated as is your straight forward presentation style. Cheers!
Another fine video, especially, as mentioned by others, the advice to keep the tape off the first pipe thread. I once had an air stapler malfunction when a tiny piece of PTFE tape lodged in the stapler’s actuator valve. The best way to remove tape is compressed air, so long as you don’t mind blowing the stuff all over your shop or wherever. And, along the lines of keeping the tape off the first thread, make sure you clean the female part of the fitting of the tape shards that inevitably remain there.
Well done, thank you.. In irrigation we use the white tape for all pipe sizes, I've never even seen the pink for sale. Also, we like to use tape to avoid contaminating the systems with paste, because there are small orifices in the valves and nozzles. Even if the tape is improperly applied and causes a clog, it is easy to remove; whereas paste will gum things up.
I'm not a plumber and I hardly ever do any plumbing at home ( when something breaks) but somehow I still watch your videos because it's well made and fun to watch. Keep going.
Metal on metal without T-tape can cause "galling" like when spark plugs are installed without anti-seize compound, the bare metal can weld itself together by oxidizing (rusting) and if you ever have to remove a galled pipe you know what I'm talking about, get out the cutoff saw! T-tape or the messier older brother Pipe Dope make installation and if necessary removal at a later date much easier!
Unrelated to thread but same thing here, like your example with spark plug, metal mix is very bad when their corrosion resistance is very far apart. Never mix Alluminium Seat post + an iron bike frame and vise-versa. I once managed to free one... that took an half a Ton table plus one ~200lbs guy sitting on it plus a big vise and 2 guy twisting and pulling on that bike frame to free it. Even with that table plus the guy on it, we were still pulling the table before even moving that seat post out of that bike frame XD
When applying teflon tape to 316 machined stainless npt fittings, you dont want to skip that first thread as you would typically with steel or black iron fittings. The stainless fittings will gal or coldweld together upon torquing and will be ruined if disassembly is ever necessary. -16+ year hydraulic technician. Great video!
3,3,3,3 rules. When cutting the threads on a blank pipe the depth of the thread dies should be adjusted (this could be tested using a scrap piece of the same type/diameter) so that after threading (releasing the dies after the end of pipe comes past the plane of the end of the dies) the end of the pipe a fitting should have 3 rounds of teflon, be able to turn by hand 3 revolutions, be tightened 3 rounds, and have 3 threads showing when finished. This would be the ideal procedure/method. Deviations from this ideal will work, but the better method should be aimed for.
I'm one of those grannies who have learned bits n pieces of info to help ask the pro in order to determine if he is "well schooled" when I need professional services for maintaining hvac, etc. Little things I can do on my own. I have used Teflon tape for decades, but no one has ever told me or explained there were colors n types/grades. Thanks for the tips, especially in wrapping in tight places. NM
In our high pressure oil pipeline in the larger sizes we have had problems with joints seeping. Our line is operational to 1100 psi at places. We often apply pipe dope, 3 minimum wraps of tape, then sometimes another thin pipe dope. In the largest sizes you need to apply dope to the inside of the threads too. That way the joint doesn’t get starved of dope while tightening
G'day, My father saw a demonstration of PTFE tape in the 1960's, every joint leaked. It took another 15 years before he used it. He puts it on so thick that you cannot see the thread form (20+ layers). He says the tape is cheap but a leak will be expensive to fix.
Just a quick tip from out of left field; when working with thin or soft material, grip it back away from the actual joint to keep from distorting the connection. Great video regarding the tape type & application. I generally use Mil Spec white tape except for yellow on gas connections.
Not only that, but the statement that thread tape is not there for sealing is completely, straight up incorrect. Due to the spiral leakage path, a joint which seals on the threads, such as NPT, will NEVER seal if tape or sealant are not used. Without tape or sealant, there is always a leakage path, regardless of how tightly you compress the fitting and at higher pressures, a significant leak will occur. On the other hand, straight thread joints such as BSP seal on a face against a gasket and tape is not required as the threads only provide a mechanical connection and the force required to seal against the gasket.
Dude. Duuuuuuddddeeee. Literally never heard this until now. Out of the countless hours of watching experts and how tos and PBS never once was it mentioned.
I'm a hydraulic repair man. I use npt to test cylinders all the time. The pen trick blew my mind. I will definitely be using it in the future. We use mill spec white stuff. It holds to 10,000 psi. (On ⅜ npt) I've used it on 4 inch npt. Not long term, just a 15 min test. Keep in mind hydraulic fittings are (usually) smoother than black pipe threads.
WOW. Without doubt one of the best, no nonsense, informational, and to the point, videos available. Just great. Thanks so much. Btw, great accent, I'm Canadian, eh! I immediately knew I was viewing the right video when the very first shot is of an actual plumber's hand, beat up, and "who cares?"!
We have an orange tape here in Canada too. It's basically heavy duty yellow. It can be used for fuel service, acid/alkaline fluids, H2, nitrogen and other non medical gasses. I like to tape and dope all my fittings for peace of mind.
@@SuperSpecialty Yeah, that's a great way to test for slow leaks. But it's important to remember that pipe fittings and connections are the most likely components (weak point) in a fluid delivery system to develop leaks. Depending on the application, a little extra thread sealant or tape can save from headaches down the road.
@@jordanrelkey Ty 4 your input, yes I know... I’m a retired nuclear submarine mechanic (marine machinery mechanic-shop 38-PHNSY) with 35 yrs of DoD service.
Strange fact. My parts washer was put together with white regular tape and developed many leaks. I had to redo the whole thing with yellow to get it to be leak free for many years
We plumb liquid propane threaded connections. We've always uses Teflon tape and pipe dope. Our design criteria is 350 PSIG working with a 5 to 1 safety factor. Because some people don't adhere to what you've stated regarding leaving the first thread bare, we find strings of Teflon tape lodged in downstream valves and controls.
I hold the tape in my left hand to wrap. I found that I can wrap it around a finger on my right hand and transfer it to a pipe that I can only reach with one hand. It took some practice.
Saw an auto-electrician use this trick many years ago with some electrical tape (no pen) while re-wiring in a hard-to-reach spot & through a tangle of wires. Simple and very effective.
Always learning something new, all I ever used is what I was given to work with, but I always backed up the tape pipe dopa recto seal, just felt better doing it, any , no leaks😁
I recently switched from the white stuff to the pink Oatey tape. I could not believe how much better it as. I tried to see how many threads are required for 1/2 inch ips to be water tight. So I pressurized a closed loop I had soldered up and gradually started to un-thread the fitting. I figured it would gradually start to leak like when you un-screw a garden hose. Nope ... when it got to the last thread, it sounded like a gun shot and boy did I get wet. The compressed tape must have been expanding to fill the gap ... well worth the extra 5 bucks ... I can not imagine it ever leaking under normal use.
I think that kind prevents corrosive or caustic damage, right? It’s got something special in it to keep the threads from being damaged by the stuff in the pipes. Just can’t remember what…
Hey everyone, when you burn the tape you get "Organic Vapors" not "Fumes", fumes come from burning metal. Good to know when choosing the correct respirator cartridge. Black is Organic Vapors like smoke and paint smell, Magenta is welding for example. Use a combo filter for (aerosols) like spray paint because its both chemicals and drops of paint floating in the air.
Polymer _fume_ fever, also known as Teflon flu, is an inhalation fever caused by the _fumes_ released when Teflon reaches 300-450 degrees. Organic vapors typically refer to liquids that are petroleum based (from organic carbon) evaporate quickly (creating vapors.) Products like turpentine, gasoline, paint thinner, urethanes and solvent based epoxy all will give off organic vapors in varying amounts.
As a plumber, yep tape is way better but, but, but, one more but, you need to start it half to one thread in. If not you’ll get tape in what ever you are threading together. Great vid bro.
I like Blue Monster (Blue) tape for almost everything. I do use yellow gas tape for propane and natural gas and green for oxygen lines. While I like tape due to cleanliness I do use dope when I’m tying in or reusing old pipe. One thing to note on newly cut thread is to make sure to remove the cutting oil or lubricant as it can degrade some tapes.
You can also "scratch" the treads to make "hooks" to fasten the tape better on slick treads. In Sweden most couplings have this scratches made in produktion
German here. We mostly use hemp and its pretty much mandatory to use a sawblade to scratch up the treads before applying your hemp. Atleast its what we were taught in trade school and by coworkers.
I’ve been DIYing for 30+ years. Sadly I didn’t learn about the first thread skip, but I don’t think I have had a valve failure. However, I will apply that knowledge from here on out!😊
Good video. I am located in Georgia. Around here the tape we see is blue. I have seen inspector write ups because the tape on the gas lines were not "blue." Another way threads are sealed is by blocking the root of the thread path. This includes pipe does. You could show the trick to making the tape narrow for smaller pipes. Tear off a piece and hold it up and let it hang. Grab it at the top with two figure of one hand on one side then grab it with two fingers of the other hand on the other side and pull down quickly and it will split the tape.
I can't believe I thought Teflon was the sealant lol. fwi, I would just put more white on. I love these videos man. Learning so much. Keep them coming please
I dig your accent, it's super unique! Very informative video, I never thought about the tape's primary purpose being to lower friction instead of sealing the threads itself!
Technically, teflon tape does serve as the sealing mechanism in an NPT system where Teflon tape is used. Due to the imprecise nature of the threads which you rightly touch on, they can't be relied upon for a metal to metal seal as is relied upon in a flare type sealing system. That having been said, applying too much tape makes no more sense than using an oversized o-ring in a joint which relies on an o-ring to seal. And overtightening is also a concern, in much the same way that overtightening an o'ring can result in over-compression of an o'ring to the point where it loses it's elasticity, leading to premature failure under extreme conditions especially of temperature.
The spiral leak path is part of the compromise of an NPT fitting, even very precisely machined NPT threads meet at a circular initial contact point, which contains a gap from the crest of the thread unless the fitting is over-tightened. NPTF "dry seal" fittings have an undersized cut in the thread, and are meant to crush into place and form a true seal, mating two parts to each other, while NPT and teflon tape fittings can be swapped back and forth with other pieces if needed.
I often roll my eyes at metal to metal sealing fittings (flange, CGP, swage, etc) where someone has tried using PTFE tape to seal leaks... Though, after watching this video, I wonder now if I was mistaken for the original intent and the PTFE tape was being used as thread lubricant for anti-seize and/or anti-gall...
I agree. In fact I work a lot with Swaglok and Parker connections and in my 11 years working on the company people always told me to do only 2 layers in the same way the video shows and usually work from 1 psi to 10k with no leak at all. The only problems we have found so far are over taped threads (way too many Teflon layers) and overtightening.
Im obsessed with PTFE thread tape. Its so satisfying to wrap on threads and screw shit together. It has that slick, smooth, dry but oily feel. And it's $1 for 40 feet of it. I want to wrap PTFE tape on everything
I always thought the tape acted as a sealant. Never realized it was actually a lubricant! Somehow I've been lucky --- I've always wound the tape clockwise --- never considered what would happen if it were applied counter-clockwise! Makes sense!
"I always thought the tape acted as a sealant." And that is still its primary function. Making it easier to put the threads together is only a nice bonus.
i despise tape, tape is only for sprinkler heads, gas and very temporary connections, same with teflon thread or dental floss as i call it. rasp and hemp everything. it is the best and nothing beats it
Yellow Teflon tape is also use in automotive applications. such as Oil pressure sensors, and occasionally in oil cooling line connections. (you might want to pin this comment because it adds to the knowledge of Teflon. And someday someone out there is likely going to be tryin to figure out Which kind of tape to use on their car. And most likely will end up here.)
Great video! I would have liked to see a warning about the types of threads that require PTFE tape (like NPT), and the types that should never use it (like compression fittings). I see that error way too often!
Another common pipe fitting that most don't know about is NPTF. Also know as "Dry Seal" It doesn't require teflon tape or paste. NPTF is the thread that is on most hydraulic hose pipe thread fittings, and adapters. It's a one time dry seal. If reinstalled, it must have thread sealant.
Frankly, I've seen the use of both tape and paste and wondered what the advantage is. Seems like adding paste first then tape would fill in the smallest voids in the threads with paste and the tape would be the lubricant to tighten the fitting.
I use (yellow) pipe dope when putting gas lines back on pool heaters. Just gob the snot out of it, can’t go wrong with a little marshmallow around the block. Definitely don’t want to rely on a bit of yellow tape for something that serious. Stopped using white dope for plumbing though, just a bunch of white Teflon & some permatex for pvc threaded joints.
Great video. But you said that the tape seals the joint to *some* extent. I believe that the tape seals the joint to a great degree by filling the interstitial spaces between the metal male and metal female NPT threads. Rock on, good sir!!!!!
@@ShainAndrews "Nope. It's a lubricant. Pipe threads seal by deformation." No, it is a sealant - hence why all manufacturers also call it "thread sealing tape" and not lubricant, that it is slippery is only a nice bonus.
0:04 If someone calls teflon tape "plumbers tape" they are very wrong. [edit] 0:09 Better to hold the pipe in your right hand with the threaded end pointing away from you, holding the tape roll in your left hand put the tape over the top of the threaded end, hold down with your thumb and rotate the pipe/nipple in a clockwise direction. I don't know how it works if you're right-handed.
Caution , when applying Teflon tape onto fittings that screw into aluminum housings , do not over tighten . The tape puts less resistance on the fitting and mechanics may have a tendency to over torque , cracking an aluminum housing .
0:58 2:14 Yellow PTFE Tape for Gas 2:20 How to apply PTFE Tape 4:29 4:43 4:46 Cheap Lowest Quality White PTFE Tape 5:10 Pink PTFE Tape for Water 5:14 Green PTFE Tape for Oxygen 5:32 Pink PTFE Tape for Portable Water 5:46 Yellow PTFE Tape for Gas because of its thickness And Portable Water Lines as it is Non Toxic 6:05 Silver PTFE Tape for Stainless steel is Triple density Tape maiing it thickest densest and best quality of all
well if you want something to be good you would use hemp with a jointing compound instead. the only thing i ever use teflon tape on is plastic threads.
@@kartoffelsaek I am not a plumber, I just solve my problems myself, but my issue with PTFE is that the random fittings that I can buy here probably come in varioua thread standards or maybe bad tolerances, but for example almost always an 1/2" something is soo loose in an 1/2" another something that no amount of PTFE will make it work. Actually they are exactly the opposite shown in the video: not tight to use PTFE to lubricate but they are so lose that you have to use hemp to increase the friction.
45 years ago I was developing a chromatographic process to enrich fructose syrups. The vessels had dozens of 1/2 316L sch 40 stainless threaded connections. Due to galling it was almost impossible to get all of the joints leak free. I don't think specialized stainless spec thread tape was available at that time. It was so troublesome that we ended up tig welding the fittings in installing a number of unions as well as replacing some of the schedule 40 pipe with swaged tubing.
In property maintenance. We use strictly gas tape for gas plumbing (obviously and its natural gas) and for every thing water. For water 2 wraps works perfect. For gas, 4 wraps minimum! Some of our guys call the yellow tape "speed tape" because of how easy it is to handle and it only needing 2 wraps for water piping.
How Does PTFE Tape Work? PTFE tape creates a tight-fitting skin or seal around the threads of various joint types in ductwork and piping. In addition to working as a deformable filler and helping to prevent leaks - where the tape is dense and thick enough - it also lubricates the joint threads. PTFE's very low surface friction causes this lubrication effect. In fact, PTFE has one of the lowest friction coefficients of any known solid! The correct PTFE tape application can allow pipe joint threads to be more tightly mated and should also prevent them from seizing up if they need to be unscrewed in the future.
Yes, like I said in the vid, not all white tapes are cheap, if they have the markings on em' you're good to go, however, for gas for example, if an inspector doesn't see the "yellow" tape, he might not accept the job, because he doesn't know which white tape you used ;)
I know this isnt related to the video but i need some advice , i was soldering copper and some of it dripped on the propane tank , nothing seems wrong but got scared enough to go put it in the shed and gonna buy a new one ... Is my propane tank compromised because some solder dripped on it ?
@@Got2Learn I would have a need of your immense wisdom once again , i have a lead toilet sleeve , too short , im planning to use a lead coupling made for it , how do i install that >.< just hammer it down gently into the existing one and cut at the appropriate height ?
Great informational video. However, there is an error at 5:50 minutes in the video where it INCORRECTLY states that "Yellow" PTFE tape can be used for "Gasoline" as it should correctly say for "Natural Gas and Propane" lines. Gasoline lines should use a flare taper fitting connection.
@@woodstover Hello Lynda, They have specific color PTFE Teflon tape for specific applications that is why they have 5 different colors. He is what I said, "Great informational video. However, there is an error at 5:50 minutes in the video where it INCORRECTLY states that "Yellow" PTFE tape can be used for "Gasoline" as it should correctly say for "Natural Gas and Propane" lines. Gasoline lines should use a flare taper fitting connection." And here is what the author of the video said, "Got2Learn 1 month ago, Yes, thank you for that correction! 1 Got2Learn
I been using that cheap tape for awhile. It always leaks 😂 I got some of the yellow tape when I thought I had a small gas leak. I’ll just use that from now on.
I am old enough to remember when you used hempen fibre to seal the joints of cast iron pipes. Or sometimes red lead "glue". But that was in the days before we had invented plastics of various sorts. You bought the lengths of cast iron pipe unthreaded and then turned the threads onto them at the job. Incidentally I still have some of the old cast iron fittings. Even without galvanizing they never rust. But newer steel pipe has rusted out and been replaced several times.
An old plumber told me about that stuff years ago: Teflon tape is for rough thread and pipe dope is for sealing against leaks. That's why pipe dope is used on gas lines, but teflon tape is forbidden. (In my area, teflon tape of any kind is still forbidden on gas lines.)
Totally agree. A lot of people think that PTFE is to seal the joint but it's not, but it does seal just because it in the threads, dope is more of a sealer than a "helper".
teflon tape is a pipe-sealant that also happens to lubricate the joint (hence why that material is used for tape and not others with similar sealing properties - the lubrication is a nice bonues). But it is not good for sealing larger gaps and for big gas-lines hemp with liquid sealant is better suited.
Hey man I got started as a maintenance technician a couple years ago and I could not believe that your content was free, you're the reason people at work think I'm some kind of plumbing genius and I owe my career to you. Your content is invaluable and you're an absolute saint.
Wow, thank you so much Jonothan!!!!!!!!
What a freakin compliment that is. Thats awesome
@@Papi4l2 Crazy huh ?!
I mean just look at what you do man, you have an absolute wealth of knowledge available for beginners and experts alike to take a look at. Your channel has amazing value to young techs and DIY folks wanting to grow their knowledge and skills.
Now you know how to make someones day bud, thanks a million man, this channel needs more like you!!! Cheers!
BRAVO....I've been an industrial troubleshooter for 50 years. When plumbing is involved, it is very common to find small pieces of tape lodged in control valves, etc. I quickly learned that it was a very bad idea to put tape on the very first thread, and I have been teaching practice to everyone that I have come in contact with. However, you are the first one that i have every encountered on the web that was wise enough to also teach this practice!
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😊
I started this video thinking, "how could you possibly make a video this long about...PTFE?", and was humbled to learn something fundamental in the first few moments. Well done.
Thank you Johnathan! 🙏🙏🙏
Thought i knew, could fill a page w/all i didn't! Thank you. What you do is appreciated, makes the world a safer place!
Its very rare to find such a thorough and intelligent coverage. I did a 4 year apprenticeship 40 years ago, using lots of thread taped joints, and was an engineer using small pipes for 30 years in the offshore oil industry. New to me are the different types of tape available. The most important thing (you mentioned it) was to leave the first thread bare. That single fact resulted in THREAD TAPE BEING BANNED in offshore and petrochemical pipe applications, because even "trained" technicians couldnt always be trusted to do it, resulting in small fragments floating around and blocking tiny measurement / control orifices, causing shutdowns. Since about 20 years ago they are only allowed to use special jointing fluid instead.
Great site. Keep it up.
Schaun.
🚀🚀🚀
I often use a single wrap of white Teflon on plastic fittings in underground irrigation. Grey pvc has pretty strong friction with itself and the tape lets you get much better thread engagement, and way better control when you need a fitting pointing in the right direction. It never occurred to me that the lubrication was kind of the point for all pipe threads. Great video!
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im a commercial plumber and this channel is incredible i show it to all the trainees and apprentices!
Thank you so much Jonathan, glad to help!!!
I liked the video and I learned a few things even thought I've been doing plumbing repairs for many years. Three comments:
1. I've never used anything but the cheap white tape that Home Depot and Lowes sells on water lines. I've never noticed any problems except when connecting threaded pipes to plastic sprinkler system valves. Maybe a different tape would make a difference or maybe more or less wraps. I don't know.
2. I believe the primary purpose of Teflon tape is to fill the spiral hole that exists in a male pipe to female pipe connection. If you don't use pipe dope or Teflon table the joint will leak through that spiral. I do like the fact that the Teflon tape lubricates the joint. I think it makes it a little easier to figure out when the joint is sufficiently tightened.because the rise in torque when the joint is sufficiently tightened is more obvious.
3. I always use the yellow tape on gas joints but I have noticed professional plumbers just using white tape although I have also seen them using pipe dope and the while tape on the same joint for gas joints.
"I believe the primary purpose of Teflon tape is to fill the spiral hole that exists in a male pipe to female pipe connection."
You are correct. The lubricating properties of Teflon are only a nice bonus, but not the main reason to use it. It is called a "thread sealing tape" for a reason.
There is also Carbon impregnated tape as well - It is used where electrical conductivity is needed
Hi! I just wanted to thank you for all your tutorials videos. Especially the ones on copper soldering. Because of these I made multiple succesful reparations in my house that was built in 1961. I never made a single solder before and now I am getting good at it. Thanks again! Great videos!
Awesome Jean-Marc, that's very good!
just got a fresh job at a plumbing company in Ottawa and really focusing on watching your videos now since I know you're a Canadian and a fellow Ontario resident!
🖐🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for this good presentation. And RUclips suggesting this video. I learned something. I also applied Teflon tape on many occasions ignoring 95% of what was explained here.. till now. Not mentionned in this video is the reaction of Teflon tape to tightening-loosening-tightening again. It seems that Teflon tape is not designed for this and that it gets unreliable in such a situation. I was told by plumbers who dislike Teflon tape for this reason and prefer to go for classic hemp or flax instead.Because flax allows the user to screw a pipe in and out again without diminishing the capacity to seal pipes of the flax. We have such situations when something like a water tap must be positioned in a certain angle and readjusted slightly when the last turn is done and it turns out that a turn backwards of the tab is required. By the way I discovered "Locktite" sealing cord which I definitely prefer to this Teflon tape and recommend it because it also allows the parts to be moved in and out without diminishing the sealing effect.
So it's Thanksgiving night, I didn't get to eat a lot of turkey this year so I'm not as tired as I usually am after stuffing myself. I decide to watch some RUclips to wind down. A video about ptfe tape is recommended to me, why idk lol. I just lost my father a few weeks ago and he was in the maintenance field and I can remember him telling me some about the colors so I watch the video. You sir have gained a new subscriber! Thank you for the memories!
This is a lesson that all tradesmen should be made aware of, although this video was made a few years ago there’s still numerous tradesmen and tradeswomen out there that are not even familiar that there are different colors of Teflon tape that represents various different application’s, this was a perfect explanation, well done. 👍🏽
Another safety note on heating/burning teflon is that it can act as a powerful oxidizer. If finely divided and mixed with metal shavings (particularly aluminum or magnesium) it can go off like flash powder.
Even if it's not that violent, having bits of it in with metal filings can create an unexpected fire hazard.
Thanks for the comprehensive information regarding Teflon tape. Your taking the trouble to back your comments with definitive data technical publications is much appreciated as is your straight forward presentation style. Cheers!
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Another fine video, especially, as mentioned by others, the advice to keep the tape off the first pipe thread. I once had an air stapler malfunction when a tiny piece of PTFE tape lodged in the stapler’s actuator valve.
The best way to remove tape is compressed air, so long as you don’t mind blowing the stuff all over your shop or wherever. And, along the lines of keeping the tape off the first thread, make sure you clean the female part of the fitting of the tape shards that inevitably remain there.
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Well done, thank you..
In irrigation we use the white tape for all pipe sizes, I've never even seen the pink for sale. Also, we like to use tape to avoid contaminating the systems with paste, because there are small orifices in the valves and nozzles. Even if the tape is improperly applied and causes a clog, it is easy to remove; whereas paste will gum things up.
I'm not a plumber and I hardly ever do any plumbing at home ( when something breaks) but somehow I still watch your videos because it's well made and fun to watch. Keep going.
Wow, thanks!
Metal on metal without T-tape can cause "galling" like when spark plugs are installed without anti-seize compound, the bare metal can weld itself together by oxidizing (rusting) and if you ever have to remove a galled pipe you know what I'm talking about, get out the cutoff saw! T-tape or the messier older brother Pipe Dope make installation and if necessary removal at a later date much easier!
As stated at the end of the vid ;)
Unrelated to thread but same thing here, like your example with spark plug, metal mix is very bad when their corrosion resistance is very far apart.
Never mix Alluminium Seat post + an iron bike frame and vise-versa.
I once managed to free one... that took an half a Ton table plus one ~200lbs guy sitting on it plus a big vise and 2 guy twisting and pulling on that bike frame to free it.
Even with that table plus the guy on it, we were still pulling the table before even moving that seat post out of that bike frame XD
I never knew there were so many different colors and types of teflon tape. Great video.
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Gosh they don't come in different flavours..
When applying teflon tape to 316 machined stainless npt fittings, you dont want to skip that first thread as you would typically with steel or black iron fittings. The stainless fittings will gal or coldweld together upon torquing and will be ruined if disassembly is ever necessary. -16+ year hydraulic technician. Great video!
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3,3,3,3 rules.
When cutting the threads on a blank pipe the depth of the thread dies should be adjusted (this could be tested using a scrap piece of the same type/diameter) so that after threading (releasing the dies after the end of pipe comes past the plane of the end of the dies) the end of the pipe a fitting should have 3 rounds of teflon, be able to turn by hand 3 revolutions, be tightened 3 rounds, and have 3 threads showing when finished. This would be the ideal procedure/method. Deviations from this ideal will work, but the better method should be aimed for.
I'm one of those grannies who have learned bits n pieces of info to help ask the pro in order to determine if he is "well schooled" when I need professional services for maintaining hvac, etc. Little things I can do on my own. I have used Teflon tape for decades, but no one has ever told me or explained there were colors n types/grades. Thanks for the tips, especially in wrapping in tight places. NM
In our high pressure oil pipeline in the larger sizes we have had problems with joints seeping. Our line is operational to 1100 psi at places. We often apply pipe dope, 3 minimum wraps of tape, then sometimes another thin pipe dope. In the largest sizes you need to apply dope to the inside of the threads too. That way the joint doesn’t get starved of dope while tightening
Loctite 577 dude.
Parker threadmate paste
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G'day, My father saw a demonstration of PTFE tape in the 1960's, every joint leaked. It took another 15 years before he used it. He puts it on so thick that you cannot see the thread form (20+ layers). He says the tape is cheap but a leak will be expensive to fix.
Just a quick tip from out of left field; when working with thin or soft material, grip it back away from the actual joint to keep from distorting the connection.
Great video regarding the tape type & application. I generally use Mil Spec white tape except for yellow on gas connections.
Thanks for the info!
Due to the hydrophobic nature of Teflon, when used in water pipes, it does end up having an important sealing effect.
Not only that, but the statement that thread tape is not there for sealing is completely, straight up incorrect. Due to the spiral leakage path, a joint which seals on the threads, such as NPT, will NEVER seal if tape or sealant are not used. Without tape or sealant, there is always a leakage path, regardless of how tightly you compress the fitting and at higher pressures, a significant leak will occur.
On the other hand, straight thread joints such as BSP seal on a face against a gasket and tape is not required as the threads only provide a mechanical connection and the force required to seal against the gasket.
Dude. Duuuuuuddddeeee. Literally never heard this until now. Out of the countless hours of watching experts and how tos and PBS never once was it mentioned.
My pleasure! ;)
I'm a hydraulic repair man. I use npt to test cylinders all the time. The pen trick blew my mind. I will definitely be using it in the future. We use mill spec white stuff. It holds to 10,000 psi. (On ⅜ npt) I've used it on 4 inch npt. Not long term, just a 15 min test. Keep in mind hydraulic fittings are (usually) smoother than black pipe threads.
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WOW. Without doubt one of the best, no nonsense, informational, and to the point, videos available. Just great. Thanks so much. Btw, great accent, I'm Canadian, eh!
I immediately knew I was viewing the right video when the very first shot is of an actual plumber's hand, beat up, and "who cares?"!
We have an orange tape here in Canada too. It's basically heavy duty yellow. It can be used for fuel service, acid/alkaline fluids, H2, nitrogen and other non medical gasses. I like to tape and dope all my fittings for peace of mind.
Lol, I was wondering "Where's the orange ?"
That stuff's the $hit for raggy-ass threads.
The only (peace of mind) is a leak check per allowable soapy solution!
@@SuperSpecialty Yeah, that's a great way to test for slow leaks.
But it's important to remember that pipe fittings and connections are the most likely components (weak point) in a fluid delivery system to develop leaks. Depending on the application, a little extra thread sealant or tape can save from headaches down the road.
@@jordanrelkey Ty 4 your input, yes I know... I’m a retired nuclear submarine mechanic (marine machinery mechanic-shop 38-PHNSY) with 35 yrs of DoD service.
@@SuperSpecialty Right on, you must have experienced hands on with some incredible cool kit in that time.
Everything you ever wanted to know about teflon tape but were afraid to ask. Very informative video. Thanks
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Strange fact. My parts washer was put together with white regular tape and developed many leaks. I had to redo the whole thing with yellow to get it to be leak free for many years
We plumb liquid propane threaded connections. We've always uses Teflon tape and pipe dope. Our design criteria is 350 PSIG working with a 5 to 1 safety factor. Because some people don't adhere to what you've stated regarding leaving the first thread bare, we find strings of Teflon tape lodged in downstream valves and controls.
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Maaaan, I can’t believe I didn’t think of the pen trick myself......thx buddy
You are most welcome, please share if you can, it helps the channel tremendously ✌✌
I hold the tape in my left hand to wrap. I found that I can wrap it around a finger on my right hand and transfer it to a pipe that I can only reach with one hand. It took some practice.
At the time, (40 years ago) I thought I’d invented this technique, but probably not.
Saw an auto-electrician use this trick many years ago with some electrical tape (no pen) while re-wiring in a hard-to-reach spot & through a tangle of wires. Simple and very effective.
Always learning something new, all I ever used is what I was given to work with, but I always backed up the tape pipe dopa recto seal, just felt better doing it, any , no leaks😁
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I recently switched from the white stuff to the pink Oatey tape. I could not believe how much better it as. I tried to see how many threads are required for 1/2 inch ips to be water tight. So I pressurized a closed loop I had soldered up and gradually started to un-thread the fitting. I figured it would gradually start to leak like when you un-screw a garden hose. Nope ... when it got to the last thread, it sounded like a gun shot and boy did I get wet. The compressed tape must have been expanding to fill the gap ... well worth the extra 5 bucks ... I can not imagine it ever leaking under normal use.
Nice test! That's good to know, it's both a sealant and lubricant...I'm switching to pink from now on, thanks!
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In the oil patch we use Jet Lube brand. It’s on an orange roll, made in Edmonton. It’s pretty thick stuff.
I think that kind prevents corrosive or caustic damage, right? It’s got something special in it to keep the threads from being damaged by the stuff in the pipes. Just can’t remember what…
@@edlingja1 No, nothing special. If something in a pipe is corrosive enough to bother the threads, the whole pipe would be ruined.
Hey everyone, when you burn the tape you get "Organic Vapors" not "Fumes", fumes come from burning metal. Good to know when choosing the correct respirator cartridge. Black is Organic Vapors like smoke and paint smell, Magenta is welding for example. Use a combo filter for (aerosols) like spray paint because its both chemicals and drops of paint floating in the air.
Thanks for the correction 💯
Polymer _fume_ fever, also known as Teflon flu, is an inhalation fever caused by the _fumes_ released when Teflon reaches 300-450 degrees.
Organic vapors typically refer to liquids that are petroleum based (from organic carbon) evaporate quickly (creating vapors.) Products like turpentine, gasoline, paint thinner, urethanes and solvent based epoxy all will give off organic vapors in varying amounts.
As a plumber, yep tape is way better but, but, but, one more but, you need to start it half to one thread in. If not you’ll get tape in what ever you are threading together. Great vid bro.
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Great video. been doing plumbing for 6 months now and I cant wait for you to post more.
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This video helped me yesterday in a D1 lab inside a cannabis facility. Thank you sir I really appreciate the help 🙏🏽
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This was a very useful vodeo ... it never crossed my mind that there are different types of teflon for different applications .
There are, hence the colors, glad I was able to show you :)
Same here!
I like Blue Monster (Blue) tape for almost everything. I do use yellow gas tape for propane and natural gas and green for oxygen lines. While I like tape due to cleanliness I do use dope when I’m tying in or reusing old pipe. One thing to note on newly cut thread is to make sure to remove the cutting oil or lubricant as it can degrade some tapes.
Yes, 100%!
Yours is by far the BEST plumbing channel I've seen on RUclips.
Can you do a video on covering random code topics from the OBC at all?
Thanks, yes I will 😁
Please!
When a pipe "galls" it is pronounced as "fall" as in a waterfall or falling off of a cliff. Thank you for the great informative video!
You can also "scratch" the treads to make "hooks" to fasten the tape better on slick treads. In Sweden most couplings have this scratches made in produktion
German here. We mostly use hemp and its pretty much mandatory to use a sawblade to scratch up the treads before applying your hemp. Atleast its what we were taught in trade school and by coworkers.
I’ve been DIYing for 30+ years. Sadly I didn’t learn about the first thread skip, but I don’t think I have had a valve failure. However, I will apply that knowledge from here on out!😊
What’s your favorite Teflon and pipe dope? I use blue monster
I use what they got at the store hege, but yeah Blue Monster is good stuff..
I also use blue monster. Initially it sticks to the threads better
*teflon tape is teflon tape*
I like blue monster for finer thread, and rectorseal t plus 2 for courser threads
I've always like permatex, pricey but works like a charm :)
Good video. I am located in Georgia. Around here the tape we see is blue. I have seen inspector write ups because the tape on the gas lines were not "blue." Another way threads are sealed is by blocking the root of the thread path. This includes pipe does. You could show the trick to making the tape narrow for smaller pipes. Tear off a piece and hold it up and let it hang. Grab it at the top with two figure of one hand on one side then grab it with two fingers of the other hand on the other side and pull down quickly and it will split the tape.
I can't believe I thought Teflon was the sealant lol. fwi, I would just put more white on. I love these videos man. Learning so much. Keep them coming please
It seals but only partially, the threads are what actually seal the joint, the teflon just fills in the small little voids 🤘
I dig your accent, it's super unique!
Very informative video, I never thought about the tape's primary purpose being to lower friction instead of sealing the threads itself!
Glad it was helpful!!!
Technically, teflon tape does serve as the sealing mechanism in an NPT system where Teflon tape is used. Due to the imprecise nature of the threads which you rightly touch on, they can't be relied upon for a metal to metal seal as is relied upon in a flare type sealing system. That having been said, applying too much tape makes no more sense than using an oversized o-ring in a joint which relies on an o-ring to seal. And overtightening is also a concern, in much the same way that overtightening an o'ring can result in over-compression of an o'ring to the point where it loses it's elasticity, leading to premature failure under extreme conditions especially of temperature.
The spiral leak path is part of the compromise of an NPT fitting, even very precisely machined NPT threads meet at a circular initial contact point, which contains a gap from the crest of the thread unless the fitting is over-tightened.
NPTF "dry seal" fittings have an undersized cut in the thread, and are meant to crush into place and form a true seal, mating two parts to each other, while NPT and teflon tape fittings can be swapped back and forth with other pieces if needed.
I often roll my eyes at metal to metal sealing fittings (flange, CGP, swage, etc) where someone has tried using PTFE tape to seal leaks... Though, after watching this video, I wonder now if I was mistaken for the original intent and the PTFE tape was being used as thread lubricant for anti-seize and/or anti-gall...
I agree. In fact I work a lot with Swaglok and Parker connections and in my 11 years working on the company people always told me to do only 2 layers in the same way the video shows and usually work from 1 psi to 10k with no leak at all. The only problems we have found so far are over taped threads (way too many Teflon layers) and overtightening.
Im obsessed with PTFE thread tape. Its so satisfying to wrap on threads and screw shit together. It has that slick, smooth, dry but oily feel. And it's $1 for 40 feet of it. I want to wrap PTFE tape on everything
I always thought the tape acted as a sealant. Never realized it was actually a lubricant! Somehow I've been lucky --- I've always wound the tape clockwise --- never considered what would happen if it were applied counter-clockwise! Makes sense!
"I always thought the tape acted as a sealant."
And that is still its primary function. Making it easier to put the threads together is only a nice bonus.
i despise tape, tape is only for sprinkler heads, gas and very temporary connections, same with teflon thread or dental floss as i call it. rasp and hemp everything. it is the best and nothing beats it
Yellow Teflon tape is also use in automotive applications. such as Oil pressure sensors, and occasionally in oil cooling line connections.
(you might want to pin this comment because it adds to the knowledge of Teflon. And someday someone out there is likely going to be tryin to figure out Which kind of tape to use on their car. And most likely will end up here.)
For those on the metric system, a US "mil" refers to 0.001 inches (25.4 microns).
Yep. It is short for a milli-inch. It is also called by some a "thou", short for a thousandth of an inch.
@@Sembazuru Called by most, no one says mil, everyone around a machine or industry I've ever met calls them a thou.
Your vids are very excellent!
I watch all you vids & really helps with my work as an hvac tech!
Awesomeness!!!
Hey brother what type of work are you doing these days ???
Your in Toronto right?
@@zenmaster6979 Haven't been working because of my back.
Great video! I would have liked to see a warning about the types of threads that require PTFE tape (like NPT), and the types that should never use it (like compression fittings). I see that error way too often!
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Another common pipe fitting that most don't know about is NPTF. Also know as "Dry Seal" It doesn't require teflon tape or paste. NPTF is the thread that is on most hydraulic hose pipe thread fittings, and adapters. It's a one time dry seal. If reinstalled, it must have thread sealant.
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I always use blue monster Teflon. Never had a leak, I also add paste after applying the Teflon.
Why not just use paste? I prefer paste over tape. Water line tape, gas line paste. Never both
They both have their pros and cons, I am working on a video for this
Cory Lewis I use water line paste with water line Teflon
Frankly, I've seen the use of both tape and paste and wondered what the advantage is. Seems like adding paste first then tape would fill in the smallest voids in the threads with paste and the tape would be the lubricant to tighten the fitting.
The tape will help it thread on easier especially on larger pipe size and the pipe dope will help seal any imperfections.
Great info! Thanks! I work in a hardware store and I didn't know this. Now I can pass it on to my customers.
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In Holland we have the color Red. We use it for everything!!!!!
I've seen red instead of blue sometimes around here too. It always seemed to be the same as it though
Blue is usually thinner and not suitable for gas applications. Red is safe for gas and water.
There is certainly a lot of "red tape" in EU if you know what I mean.
Do you even wipe your arse with it?
@@KX36
Red tape for who, Non EU members ?
Wat do you expect Princess (pUKe) ?
I am about to embark on a DIY project knowing nothing about plumbing. Your video gave me the knowledge necessary for me to wing it. 😁
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I've switched to pipe dope many years ago. It is messy but easier to use. I'm not a pro but haven't had any troubles yet.
I use (yellow) pipe dope when putting gas lines back on pool heaters. Just gob the snot out of it, can’t go wrong with a little marshmallow around the block. Definitely don’t want to rely on a bit of yellow tape for something that serious.
Stopped using white dope for plumbing though, just a bunch of white Teflon & some permatex for pvc threaded joints.
Absolutely brilliant video on a product that is often overlooked but is so important in making connections work, Thank you!
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Great video. But you said that the tape seals the joint to *some* extent. I believe that the tape seals the joint to a great degree by filling the interstitial spaces between the metal male and metal female NPT threads. Rock on, good sir!!!!!
Nope. It's a lubricant. Pipe threads seal by deformation. That's why they are tapered. Try sealing a non tapered connection...
@@ShainAndrews it also seals the threads, prior to ptfe tape, we would use hemp and stag to do pipe joints.
@@ShainAndrews "Nope. It's a lubricant. Pipe threads seal by deformation."
No, it is a sealant - hence why all manufacturers also call it "thread sealing tape" and not lubricant, that it is slippery is only a nice bonus.
@@ABaumstumpf It is a lubricant. End of story.
0:04 If someone calls teflon tape "plumbers tape" they are very wrong.
[edit] 0:09 Better to hold the pipe in your right hand with the threaded end pointing away from you, holding the tape roll in your left hand put the tape over the top of the threaded end, hold down with your thumb and rotate the pipe/nipple in a clockwise direction. I don't know how it works if you're right-handed.
Right-handed method: pipe in left hand & tape over the top.
Caution , when applying Teflon tape onto fittings that screw into aluminum housings , do not over tighten . The tape puts less resistance on the fitting and mechanics may have a tendency to over torque , cracking an aluminum housing .
As a mechanic. I love pipe dope and tape. You have to use both for Hydraulic without o rings. Nice video!
Super useful video! I never knew about the different grades.
Glad it was helpful!
0:58
2:14 Yellow PTFE Tape for Gas
2:20 How to apply PTFE Tape
4:29
4:43
4:46 Cheap Lowest Quality White PTFE Tape
5:10 Pink PTFE Tape for Water
5:14 Green PTFE Tape for Oxygen
5:32 Pink PTFE Tape for Portable Water
5:46 Yellow PTFE Tape for Gas because of its thickness And Portable Water Lines as it is Non Toxic
6:05 Silver PTFE Tape for Stainless steel is Triple density Tape maiing it thickest densest and best quality of all
As a safety precaution, people should be careful with pipe threads, as they can cut your fingers. Stainless pipe threads are very sharp.
I’ve seen too many noob apply it counter clockwise. Very good tutorial mon ami.
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I can’t wait to show my wife this video. She makes fun of me and my Teflon tape!
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well if you want something to be good you would use hemp with a jointing compound instead. the only thing i ever use teflon tape on is plastic threads.
@@kartoffelsaek I am not a plumber, I just solve my problems myself, but my issue with PTFE is that the random fittings that I can buy here probably come in varioua thread standards or maybe bad tolerances, but for example almost always an 1/2" something is soo loose in an 1/2" another something that no amount of PTFE will make it work. Actually they are exactly the opposite shown in the video: not tight to use PTFE to lubricate but they are so lose that you have to use hemp to increase the friction.
Thanks a lot. My first time in my life to aware different types of thread tape.
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45 years ago I was developing a chromatographic process to enrich fructose syrups. The vessels had dozens of 1/2 316L sch 40 stainless threaded connections. Due to galling it was almost impossible to get all of the joints leak free. I don't think specialized stainless spec thread tape was available at that time. It was so troublesome that we ended up tig welding the fittings in installing a number of unions as well as replacing some of the schedule 40 pipe with swaged tubing.
What, no proper thread lubricant/proper threaded fitting for what ever system pressure?
Was the galling resulting from the caustic nature of the syrup?
@@Lengsel7 galling is a combination of friction & adhesion i.e. mechanical not a chemical
Use SS304 bolts and SS316 Nuts for easier removal of fasteners.
In property maintenance. We use strictly gas tape for gas plumbing (obviously and its natural gas) and for every thing water. For water 2 wraps works perfect. For gas, 4 wraps minimum!
Some of our guys call the yellow tape "speed tape" because of how easy it is to handle and it only needing 2 wraps for water piping.
Damn I'm glad I found this video. I had absolutely no idea there was even different types for different applications
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How Does PTFE Tape Work?
PTFE tape creates a tight-fitting skin or seal around the threads of various joint types in ductwork and piping.
In addition to working as a deformable filler and helping to prevent leaks - where the tape is dense and thick enough - it also lubricates the joint threads. PTFE's very low surface friction causes this lubrication effect. In fact, PTFE has one of the lowest friction coefficients of any known solid!
The correct PTFE tape application can allow pipe joint threads to be more tightly mated and should also prevent them from seizing up if they need to be unscrewed in the future.
If The tape has the correct mill spec but is the typical white Teflon you find at Home Depot can it be used on pipes above 3/8 ? Thanks
Yes, like I said in the vid, not all white tapes are cheap, if they have the markings on em' you're good to go, however, for gas for example, if an inspector doesn't see the "yellow" tape, he might not accept the job, because he doesn't know which white tape you used ;)
I don’t know why I watched this. I know all this. This was very well done. Kudos.
Thanks!!
another superb video! what a gift your content is to RUclips!
Thank you SOOOO much Eric, couldn't do it without your encouragement!!!
This definitely was everything I needed to know about Teflon tape. Thank you.
Thank you, don't forget to share, it really helps the channel!
You can thank the Manhattan project’s uranium enrichment for all of the fluorine chemistry that lead to the development of PTFE.
i don't like ptfe enough to thank anyone or anything for it.
Stainless steel pipe and most stainless steel is very soft!!!
Great video as always my friend!!!
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I know this isnt related to the video but i need some advice , i was soldering copper and some of it dripped on the propane tank , nothing seems wrong but got scared enough to go put it in the shed and gonna buy a new one ... Is my propane tank compromised because some solder dripped on it ?
Absolutely not 😉
The solder melts at 500 degrees or so, the steel used for the propane tank melts at 1500 degrees or more, so no worries.
@@Got2Learn I would have a need of your immense wisdom once again , i have a lead toilet sleeve , too short , im planning to use a lead coupling made for it , how do i install that >.< just hammer it down gently into the existing one and cut at the appropriate height ?
I actually never installed one of those so I guide you for that man, sorry...i'll do some research on my end.
@@Got2Learn haha no worries , ty for the quick reply !
Very good explanation. Here in México I have never seen the green teflon one.. keep going in your good videos
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Learning a new thing every day! Great tips! Thank you.
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Before I thought Teflon is all the same usage. Thanks for the ideas you have shared God bless
Yellow also works better on pipes for water than the white tape. Yellow seals better and prevents leaks.
Very cool I had no idea how Teflon worked to prevent leaks I always thought it just fills in the gaps in the metal to prevent leaks.
The seal is created by deformation that is why they call them " malleable fittings "
Malleable is a type of cast iron, and has nothing to with the effectiveness of the seal.
@@g1sokool669 try again . Pipe thread are mad in a conical shape for a reason .
Thank you very much for giving Useful ,important and detailed knowledge .
I kept on using the cheap stuff until just recently. Doesn't seal too well with plumbing. I hardly use it on anything anymore!
Try using Locktite #55. it's a white chaulky string, best thread sealer I've come across.
Great informational video. However, there is an error at 5:50 minutes in the video where it INCORRECTLY states that "Yellow" PTFE tape can be used for "Gasoline" as it should correctly say for "Natural Gas and Propane" lines. Gasoline lines should use a flare taper fitting connection.
Yes, thank you for that correction!
Read the label Bill. It can be used on gasoline, petroleum @ the 4:40 minute mark
@@woodstover Hello Lynda, They have specific color PTFE Teflon tape for specific applications that is why they have 5 different colors. He is what I said, "Great informational video. However, there is an error at 5:50 minutes in the video where it INCORRECTLY states that "Yellow" PTFE tape can be used for "Gasoline" as it should correctly say for "Natural Gas and Propane" lines. Gasoline lines should use a flare taper fitting connection." And here is what the author of the video said, "Got2Learn
1 month ago, Yes, thank you for that correction!
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Got2Learn
I been using that cheap tape for awhile. It always leaks 😂
I got some of the yellow tape when I thought I had a small gas leak. I’ll just use that from now on.
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I am old enough to remember when you used hempen fibre to seal the joints of cast iron pipes. Or sometimes red lead "glue". But that was in the days before we had invented plastics of various sorts. You bought the lengths of cast iron pipe unthreaded and then turned the threads onto them at the job. Incidentally I still have some of the old cast iron fittings. Even without galvanizing they never rust. But newer steel pipe has rusted out and been replaced several times.
Niceee!!
"But that was in the days before we had invented plastics of various sorts."
Hemp is still used widely as it has other beneficial properties.
You forgot one very important tip.. As you are applying the tape your should stretch it, that will seat it on the treads even better
Yes, thanks for adding that in Oniel!
An old plumber told me about that stuff years ago: Teflon tape is for rough thread and pipe dope is for sealing against leaks. That's why pipe dope is used on gas lines, but teflon tape is forbidden. (In my area, teflon tape of any kind is still forbidden on gas lines.)
Totally agree. A lot of people think that PTFE is to seal the joint but it's not, but it does seal just because it in the threads, dope is more of a sealer than a "helper".
teflon tape is a pipe-sealant that also happens to lubricate the joint (hence why that material is used for tape and not others with similar sealing properties - the lubrication is a nice bonues). But it is not good for sealing larger gaps and for big gas-lines hemp with liquid sealant is better suited.