Welding machine for polypropylene pipes: TOP 15 best machines for soldering

What is a soldering iron for PP pipes

Polypropylene materials have many advantages, which is why they are in high demand:

• strength;
• light weight;
• long service life;
• low price.

The advantage is simple installation, which eliminates the need to call a specialist, since the installation work can be performed by a person even without experience. The ease of installation is explained by the melting point, which is equal to 250-260 degrees Celsius. Such a plus could not go unnoticed, so a special device was created to work with PPB.

For reference! A soldering iron for propylene pipes is also called a soldering iron for plastic pipes. A tool is used for installing pipelines, or rather connecting them. Also, the tool can be called an iron because of its characteristic shape.

The device has the following design:

• body with handle;
• heating platform;
• stand;
• nozzles of various diameters.

Soldering with such a tool takes place without unnecessary difficulties.

My acquaintance with polypropylene

The first time in my life I had to take a soldering iron for plastic pipes was in 2006. At that time I made money installing drywall in Krasnodar. A customer approached me and asked me to make a plasterboard ceiling in an apartment located in Anapa. While I was making drywall, the customer asked me to do the water supply in the apartment.

In response to my excuses that I had never done this, the customer waved it off and said that soldering polypropylene was as easy as shelling pears. He had his own plumbing store in Krasnodar, so he sent me a bunch of different fittings and polypropylene pipes, 20 and 25 diameters.

They also brought me an Ekoplastik welding machine, which then cost about 10,000 rubles, if my memory serves me correctly.

I understood that the customer had a season, all the craftsmen were busy in Krasnodar, so he entrusted me to do the water supply. After a little practice, I managed to make a water supply system that still works to this day and has not leaked anywhere. I know this for sure, because I still communicate with the customer.

What to do if you drilled a PPR pipe

Then, somewhere else, I came across some objects where it was necessary to solder the PPR, but these were just pranks, I mainly made money from renovating apartments. I started installing heating systems a couple of years after I met Alexander Kuznetsov, the author of the YouTube channel of the same name, in 2009. And he and I still work together.

By that time, my Ekoplastik welder’s circuit board had burned out, we didn’t have much money, and we were welding polypropylene pipes with Turkish soldering irons. They are also often called irons due to the similar shape of the heating element.

How does a soldering iron work?

The device has a heating part. Pipe elements that need to be joined are leaned against it. If you use a bell-type soldering iron for polypropylene pipes, then matrices of a suitable diameter are installed on both sides of the heating part. Then the heated parts of the two pipes are connected with a fitting. Butt welding machines work differently - pipe sections are first joined and then heated. These are professional models that can even be used when laying street pipelines.

Existing soldering iron designs

In appearance, the equipment for socket welding of plastic pipes is of the same type and differs only in the shape of the heater.

It can be of two types:

• flat;
• cylindrical.

A flat heater (installers also call it an iron for polypropylene pipes) has the appearance of a thick conical metal plate. The greater the mass of the heater, the better its ability to maintain a stable temperature when melting plastic. We talked in more detail about using an iron for welding polypropylene in this article.

Nozzles for melting the parts to be joined are fixed to the heater using bolts threaded through holes in the plate.

Soldering irons with a flat heater are bulky and can tip over, so it is necessary to place heat-resistant material on the floor in the workspace in advance

Soldering irons with a cylindrical heater are more compact and easy to use in hard-to-reach places. The attachments are fixed to them using a detachable clamp secured with clamping screws.

Soldering irons with a cylindrical heater are compact, but working with them alone is inconvenient. They need a stable stand

Due to the simplicity of the heater design and the absence of expensive elements in it, the cost of soldering irons ranges from 100-200 dollars, depending on their manufacturer, power and configuration.

Classification of soldering irons for PP pipes

If we evaluate the assortment, we can distinguish two main classes of machines for welding plastic pipes: mechanical and manual. The main parameter of separation is productivity and scope of application. In addition, the units are classified according to the welding method into butt and coupling devices. Features of the device and operation of each type are described below.

Powerful mechanical and electro-hydraulic devices

Mechanical and electro-hydraulic devices are used for joining large-diameter pipes (over 5 cm) or in conditions where the alignment of joints requires a significant load.

Complete set of mechanical equipment: support frame, control unit, hydraulic unit, grippers with liners, electric trimmer, disk heating element and dynamometer

Mechanical joining of pipes is carried out in a rigid housing with semicircular moving centralizers. The ends of the products are aligned with an electric trimmer equipped with double-sided knives. The plastic is heated by a powerful heater and the pipes are joined - pressure is applied manually through a lever. The clamping force is monitored by a built-in dynamometer.

The butt welding technique using an appropriate apparatus is recommended for connecting PP pipes whose diameter exceeds 63 cm. The permissible pipe thickness is at least 4 mm.

In butt welding, devices with a disk working element are used, with the help of which the parts to be joined are heated to a viscous consistency. Before heating, the parts to be joined are trimmed to give their cut an exact geometric shape. After preparation, the parts are applied to preheated disks. Then they are connected with a quick movement, maintaining alignment. To allow you to work with pipes of any diameter, the welding machine comes with discs of different sizes.

The coating of the clamps is made of metallized Teflon, which prevents hot plastic from sticking to the working element of the device.

The connection of parts with an electro-hydraulic device for soldering polypropylene pipes is carried out by analogy with a mechanical device. The difference is in the method of creating pressure. The clamping is carried out by an electro-hydraulic drive.

The device is capable of regenerating pressure of about 120 atmospheres - this is enough to weld pipes with a diameter of up to 63 cm. At the same time, the quality of the seam remains high.

Some electro-hydraulic units allow welding of T-shaped plastic structures.

These devices are expensive and are not intended for soldering small cross-section pipes. Therefore, the main scope of their application is industrial enterprises and utilities. The use of mechanical and electro-hydraulic devices in everyday life is unprofitable.

Sword and cylindrical hand models

A manual welding machine is often called a “soldering iron” or “iron”. The compact device is suitable for home and industrial use. The maximum diameter of joined pipes is 125 mm.

Based on the shape of the heating platform, there are two types of “soldering irons”:

• xiphoid;
• cylindrical.

The shapes of welding machines are what gave them popular names: the first option looks like an iron, and the second one looks like an ordinary soldering iron. The platform configuration does not affect the principle, operating procedure and quality of the device. The differences lie in different types of attachments and methods of attaching them.

There are holes on both sides of the flat iron. Depending on the number of “seats”, one or several pairs of nozzles can be used simultaneously. Standard – 1-3 diametrical sizes

For soldering individual heating, two or three sets of nozzles are enough. Models designed for the use of more than 3 diameters belong to the category of professional equipment and cost from 250 USD.

A pair of separate attachments are installed on the “iron”:

• sleeve – heating of the outer surface;
• mandrel - heating and melting the inside of the fitting.

Both attachments are secured with a long screw, which is tightened with a hex wrench.

When using several sets at the same time, small attachments are placed closer to the edge, and large attachments are placed closer to the handle. This is not a mandatory requirement, but a recommendation for more convenient use.

Less popular are sword-shaped varieties with a shortened heater. Model No. 1 (photo below) is highly specialized and designed for the installation of large mandrels and couplings; the power of the heating element allows the soldering of large cross-section PP pipes.

Model 1 is highly specialized. Model 2 is compact, with two nozzles oriented vertically, it is convenient for welding in confined spaces

Devices with a cylindrical heating rod are equipped with attachments similar to a detachable clamp.

Experts highlight a number of advantages of “soldering irons” over “irons”:

• the master independently selects the area where the nozzle is located - there are no specified holes;
• the ability to choose the angle of the pipe relative to the horizontal plane - important when soldering complex components at the installation site of the pipeline;
• increasing operating efficiency by increasing the contact area between the heater and nozzles - faster warming up;
• there is no need to periodically tighten the fastening bolts to prevent axial displacement of the nozzles during welding.

Cylindrical devices are distinguished by their compactness, stable heating temperature and high cost relative to sword-shaped models.

The set of attachments is put on the cylinder, moved to a convenient place, after which the connecting screw is tightened with a hex key. The maximum number of nozzles used is determined by the length of the rod platform

Devices for butt and socket welding

Soldering is performed in two technological ways: butt and coupling. Accordingly, all welding machines can be classified according to this criterion.

How is butt welding performed?

The technology is applicable for pipes of equal diameter with a plastic thickness of 4 mm or more. The main requirements for high-quality soldering are: clear alignment of the joining elements and careful trimming, ensuring a tight fit of the surfaces.

Butt welding machines operate on the following principle:

1. Trimming and processing of pipe ends.
2. Simultaneous heating by disc heating element.
3. Compression of mating parts - pressure is applied strictly along the axis of the pipe.
4. Achieving the diffusion effect is the penetration of molten polymers into the structure of adjacent parts.

After a technological pause, the stage of cooling and final polymerization follows.

Industrial machines operate using this method: mechanical and electro-hydraulic devices. The equipment allows you to achieve the required arrangement of parts and optimal compression force

Features of the coupling solder

The fulfillment of the condition for centering the parts is achieved due to the selected sizes of nozzles and pipes. The unit simultaneously heats the inner walls of the coupling (tee, fitting or adapter) and the outer side of the pipe to the same length.

The heated parts are applied and joined together manually. The ratio of the diameters of the mating elements provides the necessary compression force - for interpenetration and polymerization, it is enough to hold the parts together for some time.

Clutch units include tools that require the use of special attachments. All manual welding machines perform socket or socket joints

When connecting polypropylene pipes using a welding machine, a number of standard actions are performed. As a result of the diffuse connection of plastic components, a durable, sealed pipeline is obtained that can operate without failure under standard load for many decades.

The best professional pipe soldering irons

The best soldering irons in terms of power and build quality are designed for continuous use for a long time. They are equipped with more precise temperature controllers; the relay reacts even to slight overheating and protects the device from damage. The equipment supplied is always of good quality - pipe cutters, dies, screwdrivers are designed for long-term use.

Additionally, “pro” level equipment is equipped with:

1. Microprocessors and displays;
2. Electronic temperature control;
3. Settings for welding pipes made of different materials (PVC, PP).

Wester DWM 1000A

The device is designed for professionals - high working life, high-quality and very comfortable stand, ergonomic handle. Convenience is provided by a digital display that shows the current heating, and electronic temperature control. A sensitive thermal relay reports overheating with an audible signal and turns off the heating elements to avoid damage to the parts being connected. The power consumption of the soldering iron is only 1 kW - it will not overload the network, but at the same time it will qualitatively weld pipes and fittings up to 63 mm.

Advantages:

• high quality matrix coating;
• electronic display and temperature control;
• impressive warranty (5 years);
• ease of adjustment;
• stable stand.

Flaws:

• temperature error up to 15 degrees;
• Pipe cutting scissors are not included in the package.

Dytron Polys P-4a 650W TraceWeld Solo

A high-quality professional machine for welding with block-type matrices, designed for intensive use and regular load. You can place three attachments on the work area at once. A soldering iron is used for installing water supply and heating systems made of polypropylene. Precise microprocessor settings allow you to set the type of material to be welded and the required temperature. Thanks to the advanced design, the soldering iron is very lightweight and convenient.

Advantages:

• the best professional soldering iron for polypropylene pipes;
• a complete set of dies with a diameter from 16 to 63 mm;
• special coating of nozzles prevents PVC sticking;
• economical energy consumption while maintaining stable temperature;
• built-in timer.

Flaws:

• high price.

CANDAN SM-01

An inexpensive but good 1.5 kW pipe welding machine quickly heats up to the set temperature and allows you to solder pipes with diameters from 16 to 75 mm. Maximum heating is up to 320 degrees; when the set temperature is exceeded, a protective relay is activated. The soldering iron is equipped with four “running” dies of 20-40 mm, a good pipe cutter, as well as a screwdriver and a tape measure. Packaging: metal case with secure latches. According to user reviews, the model is called “indestructible” even with hard use for a long time. Therefore, the device is excellent for frequent use and soldering in large volumes.

Advantages:

• a powerful soldering iron welds pipes with a diameter of up to 75 mm;
• two separate heating elements;
• clamp on a stand;
• high quality of materials and workmanship;
• strong foundation;
• convenient pipe cutter and precise temperature controller.

Flaws:

• lack of a complete set of matrices.

Criterias of choice

When choosing a soldering iron, you should pay attention not only to its cost and brand, but also to its technical qualities. So what do you need to consider?

Electric power

The main characteristic that you should pay attention to when choosing a soldering iron is its power, since the maximum diameter of the pipes and their subsequent welding depend on this.

Important! The higher the power of the device, the larger the size of the product the master will be able to connect.

For example, a 1.5 kW tool is capable of connecting pipes from 20 to 50 mm, but a more powerful 1.7 kW tool can solder parts up to 63 mm.

The tool comes with a special suitcase and additional tools.

Device contents

Soldering irons are produced in the form of kits with accessories and instruments. They go on sale together with the main device in a special case.

The equipment depends on the model and brand of the manufacturer. But most often the set includes:

• stand or tube for soldering iron;
• nozzles of various diameters;
• keys for replacing parts;
• cutter;
• roulette;
• level;
• marker.

Important! The cost of a soldering iron is influenced by the configuration.

The presence of a thermostat and its design

The thermostat is responsible for setting and maintaining the operating temperature. The master can set the range from 220 to 350 degrees.

Thanks to the built-in thermostat, the technician does not have to regularly set the desired temperature with his own hands.

Value for money

Equipment with the same technical parameters costs differently from different manufacturers. The price is determined by the brand’s reputation, type of device and equipment.

The leaders in this market segment are foreign companies: Rothenberg, Dytron, Brima, Kern and Candan. Among domestic manufacturers, products such as Enkor, Energomash, and Kalibr are in demand.

Among experts, there is an unofficial rating of countries that manufacture welding equipment for plastic pipes.

The championship rightfully belongs to the European brands Rothenberg (Germany) and Dytron (Czech Republic).

The price of Czech Dytron soldering irons for basic configuration starts from 200 USD, which is 3-4 times more expensive than similar models of Turkish or Chinese production

Despite the high cost, European products hold the sales lead due to their reliability, durability, unpretentiousness and ease of use. The equipment is distinguished by its light weight, compactness, mechanical endurance, long service life and diversity of the model range.

A worthy alternative to Czech and German devices are hand-held soldering irons made in Turkey. Well proven: Candan, Cobra and Valtec.

Moderate pricing policy (from 30-40 USD) along with good technical and operational characteristics brought Candan to the top sales among soldering irons for PP pipes for household use

The most affordable price niche is occupied by Chinese and Russian units. The cost of cheap models starts from 15-20 USD. The quality of workmanship is often “lame”; thermostats are characterized by inconsistent operation - the spread of readings reaches 10°. Such an error is fraught with depressurization of the welded elements.

However, among the Chinese-Russian assembly there are competitive devices, for example, Energomash, Wester and Sturm soldering irons (German development, manufactured in China).

Video description

For a brief overview of the Denzel DWP-2000 soldering station, watch this video:

ELITECH SPT1500

A simple welding machine with a universal stand similar to the one that comes with Candan. Working with a soldering iron in weight is not very convenient, since it is quite heavy and has a rigid handle. Best suited for working on the floor or table. A power of 1.5 kW is enough for quick heating and soldering of pipes with a cross-section of up to 63 millimeters.

The manufacturer of the soldering iron ELITECH SPT1500, among other things, equipped its tool with a bubble level Source svarochnye-apparaty.kz

The case is not very successful - the thin metal deforms quite quickly. The supplied pipe cutter also needs to be replaced.

Advantages:

• can be mounted on a workbench;
• quality nozzles.

Flaws:

• inconvenient to use when suspended;
• poor quality case.

Rating of welding machines for polypropylene pipes

Rothenberger Roweld P63T

Our rating of the best soldering irons for polypropylene pipes opens with Rothenberger Roweld P63T. The Rothenberger company is a recognized “guru” in this field. Whatever one may say, the Germans have been specializing in the installation of pipelines since 1949, for exactly 70 years. The professional soldering iron they offer for installing communications inside buildings is outwardly simple as a hammer, but a tool of this class is not at all attractive for its beauty, but for its reliability and convenience.

The soldering iron heater is sword-shaped, with a power of 800 W and a thermostat that maintains the temperature at a fixed level. Unlike models with the “E” index, indicating the presence of an electronic regulator, this soldering iron is both simpler and cheaper, and this, in general, does not affect the functionality. It is designed to work with pipes with a diameter of 20 to 63 mm - this is the set of Teflon-coated nozzles included in the kit. It’s convenient to work with - although it’s not the most powerful heater and is a little slow when it comes to working with large-diameter pipes, but it melts plastic accurately. In addition, since we are talking about working inside buildings, the device will have to be carried often - and it weighs, together with the entire set of equipment, not that much, only 8 kg.

The soldering iron can be mounted either on a stand or on a clamp screwed to the table. Pipes and fittings are easily removed from the nozzles after heating. For the overall quality of workmanship - a separate plus in the piggy bank.

Main advantages:

• Ease of transportation
• Build quality
• Reliability
• Ease of use

Minuses:

• High price
• Quite slow heating compared to common 1.5-2 kW soldering irons

WELDER RBI-KC32

Easy to use and lightweight device from a domestic brand, ideal for home use

WELDER RBI-KC32 is equipment intended for domestic use. To work with pipes, paired block-type nozzles are used, the surface of which is coated with a Teflon non-stick layer.

Model specifications:

• type of device - manual
• method of connecting pipes - socket
• input voltage - 240 V
• type of temperature controller - thermostat
• diameter of nozzles included, mm - 16, 20, 25, 32
• Contents: 4 attachments, stand, instructions
• weight of the set - 2.5 kg, one device - 1 kg

Additionally, the device is equipped with an on/off indicator light.

The device itself and other accessories supplied in the kit are collected in a metal case. But when purchasing, it is advisable to check with the seller about the package contents - some stores offer 3 attachments or add a tape measure or a pipe cutter to the case.

As for the latter, users recommend not taking the cheapest pipe scissors, but choosing a more expensive option.

Advantages

• A light weight
• Acceptable cost
• Convenient to use

Flaws

• Inconvenient stand included

CALIBER SVA-780T

An ideal cost option, suitable for welding household pipelines even for beginners

This soldering iron came in second place among models with a round heater shape due to its low price and decent quality. That is why CALIBER SVA-780T is in high demand among buyers.

CALIBER SVA-780T will be an ideal solution for one-time work - assembling a water supply or heating system with your own hands. It is easy to use and inexpensive, which will allow you not to regret the purchase - I assembled the pipeline and sent the soldering iron for storage in the closet.

Model specifications:

• type of device - manual
• method of connecting pipes - socket
• input voltage - 220 V
• type of temperature controller - thermostat
• diameter of nozzles included, mm - 20, 25, 32
• complete set - 3 nozzles, pipe cutter, delivery
• set weight - 2 kg

The assembly and quality of materials, in general, corresponds to the cost of the equipment: the case material is thin, the individual parts do not fit tightly. The equipment is decent - there are the most necessary accessories, including popular attachments, a pipe cutter, and a stand.

But users advise immediately making your own stand and buying the best pipe cutter.

As for the durability of the device, reviews from owners vary - some claim intensive two-year use by construction crews, others talk about trouble-free household use, and others complain that the soldering iron stopped heating up when assembling the first pipeline.

Advantages

• Affordable price
• Popular attachments included
• Convenient to solder in hard-to-reach places

Flaws

• The cord smells bad
• Average quality of attachments
• Fixed stand

Dytron Polys P-4a 1200W TraceWeld Solo blue

At first glance, the Czech pipe welding machine looks more interesting than the German one - the price is lower, and the mention of microprocessor temperature control will find its supporters. But there is one important nuance here - the “solo” in the name indicates that we are talking about a “bare” soldering iron without attachments and a case, that is, the initial low cost in comparison with a fully equipped Rothenberger is not so cheap. With a suitcase and a set of attachments, it will cost more.

Teflon-coated nozzles for this device are offered in a large selection of diameters - from 16 to 125 mm. Thanks to its powerful heater, it can handle thick-walled pipes quickly. Temperature adjustment – ​​in the range from 180 to 280 degrees. The regulator itself, however, is inconvenient - it can be used with a screwdriver. The “solo” set is minimal - the soldering iron itself, a stand and a hexagon for tightening the attachments on the heater disk. The stand, by the way, is less convenient due to the short “legs” than that of the Rothenberger - so overall, the “Czech” gets only second place.

Main advantages:

• Powerful heater
• Accurate temperature maintenance

Minuses:

• Minimum equipment
• Inconvenient stand

ELITECH SPT 1500

Socket welding machine ELITECH SPT 1500

The ELITECH SPT 1500 model belongs to the middle price segment, but the main advantage of this soldering iron is considered to be its extended configuration. The set includes not only the tool itself with attachments, but a screwdriver, tape measure, gloves and a pipe cutter. This kit allows you to have all the tools at hand and quickly weld polypropylene.

The device is made in red color and comes with a metal suitcase. Its power is 1500 W, 6 nozzles for pipe diameters 20, 25, 32, 40, 50, and 63 mm are included in the set. Due to the good configuration, the weight is 6 kg.

The handle of the device is rubberized so that it fits comfortably in the hand and does not fall out. The two heating elements are separated by different switches. The thermostat is located on the right side of the metal housing; indicators are located on the opposite side.

PROS:

• Extended equipment
• Versatility
• Heating time 15 minutes
• Teflon coating of nozzles

MINUSES:

• Short cord – 1.2 m

DIOLD ASPT-4

A well-proven soldering iron with a sword-shaped 1.5-kilowatt heater and smooth temperature control is also, at first glance, well equipped - in the metal suitcase you can find six nozzles for pipe diameters from 20 to 63 mm, a pipe cutter, and even a pair of gloves with a tape measure . You can simultaneously mount up to three pairs of nozzles on the heater, it heats up at a good speed and is quite convenient for welding “in place”, where you need to get to with the sharp end of the “sword”.

We have no complaints about the soldering iron itself - it is made well, even the quality of the attachments is pleasant. The only advice is to check the calibration of the temperature controller with a pyrometer. But the stand was disappointing - it is made of plastic, it is poorly fixed, and you will have to do some magic. Well, you can safely throw away the complete pipe cutter: it cuts disgustingly, which, however, is a common problem with Chinese budget tools - if you put at least a Candan in the vacant space of your suitcase, Turkish scissors cut much better.

But in general, this soldering iron is undoubtedly worth the money, and with a minimum of complaints about the configuration and quality, it is convenient and effective when working.

Main advantages:

• Ease of working in confined spaces
• Nozzle quality
• Fast warm-up
• Durable suitcase with well-thought-out fastenings for the filling

Minuses:

• Poor stand quality
• The complete pipe cutter is useless in operation

Models in the line:

• DIOLD ASPT-4 – 1500 W, sword-shaped heater, pair welding nozzle, set of nozzles 6 pieces
• DIOLD ASPT-1- 800 W, round heater, pair welding nozzle, set of nozzles 3 pieces
• DIOLD ASPT-2 – 800 W, sword-shaped heater, pair welding nozzle, set of nozzles 6 pieces
• DIOLD ASPT-3-1- 1000 W, cylindrical heater, block welding nozzle, set of nozzles 4 pieces

Denzel DWP-2000

Among the best inexpensive soldering irons for pipes in 2021 is the Denzel DWP-2000 model. Five plus for ergonomics - working with this soldering iron in weight is very convenient. The handle fits perfectly into the palm, so for work mostly without a stand, we can safely recommend it. But the stand, on the contrary, is unsuccessful - on it the soldering iron hangs forward, when removing pipes and fittings from the nozzles it tends to fall, it definitely needs to be modified.

The nozzles themselves have a high-quality Teflon coating; the heated plastic is easily removed. The power of the heater is clear from the markings - two kilowatts, and the heater is not “half power”, but constantly operates at full power. Immediately check the accuracy of the thermostat with a pyrometer - it can quickly overheat small diameter pipes. The set of nozzles is traditional - six pairs, for diameters from 20 to 63 mm.

If it were not for the extremely unsuccessful stand, this soldering iron for polypropylene pipes could have received a higher rating. Alas, at least in some ways, a budget tool will still require some hands-on use.

Main advantages:

• Fast warm-up
• Convenient work on weight
• Nozzle quality

Minuses:

• The stand in the form it was made by the factory rather interferes with work

Models in the line:

• Denzel DWP-2000 – power 2000 W
• Denzel DWP-1500 - power 1500 W

Sturm! TW7218

The Sturm cylindrical soldering iron is designed for small pipe diameters - from 16 to 32 mm, all attachments for this range are included in the kit. At the same time, despite its small dimensions, its power is very respectable - 1.8 kW, so it warms up to operating temperature very quickly.

Naturally, you have to pay something for the cheapness (and this is for a case kit with attachments). First of all, a rough temperature regulator - it’s worth checking the actual heating in different positions with a pyrometer. In addition, the manufacturer saved money on the stand, and the soldering iron stands unstable on the “leg” plate sticking down. So you will have to make the stand yourself, and at the same time modify the suitcase - the nozzles are not fixed in it, and the non-stick coating gets scratched over time because of this.

On the other hand, there is nothing fatal in the “do it yourself” list; for a Chinese instrument it is quite tolerable. And the low price, you see, can become an important factor when choosing.

Main advantages:

• Light weight
• Quick warm-up

Minuses:

• No stand
• Rough temperature controller
• Works only with small pipe diameters

PATRIOT PW 205

The PATRIOT PW205 plastic pipe welding kit is designed to work with pipes with a diameter of 20 to 63 mm. Equipped with a 2-stage heating element with a power of 2 kW. Supplied in a metal case complete with stand, six attachments, scissors, tape measure, gloves and installation tool.

USP 80620

Soldering iron for plastic pipes USP 80620

This soldering iron for polypropylene has a power of 1500 W. The device heats up quickly: at an ambient temperature of +25 degrees it will warm up in 5 minutes. If the temperature is zero, you will have to wait 15 minutes.

The device is made in red color, the case contains 4 nozzles - 20, 25, 32 and 40 mm for different pipe diameters. A small water level is included, the long cable is an advantage. Its length is 2.5 meters, which means that soldering can be carried out in another room where there is no outlet.

Thanks to the holes for nozzles on the body, you can work with two different pipe diameters at once. The active parts of the electric heater are double insulated.

PROS:

• Long cord
• Average price category
• 4 nozzles
• Good equipment

VALFEX VWM-04 SET

BISON AST-2000

This two-kilowatt soldering iron is made in an extremely brutal way - for example, to install the stand, just a piece of square pipe is used, the body is a rectangular box, the stand is again welded from pipes. But, whatever one may say, it turned out to be durable and cheap, and it stands on a stand much more reliably than the same “Diold”.

The set includes six pairs of nozzles, for diameters from 20 to 63 mm. They have quite a decent non-stick coating, pipes and couplings can be easily removed from them. Warming up with such power is naturally fast. The heater is two-section, with each “half” being switched on independently, as is usual for such a design.

Due to its design, the soldering iron is quite heavy; when working by hand (for example, when laying pipes along a wall), it tires faster than lighter models, and the handle should be made more ergonomic. But let's not find fault at such and such a price. But let's find fault with the build quality - even in the photographs from the official website (!) you can see the switches not inserted into the case, and the curvature of the case itself. Of course, it is clear that the device is practically nowhere cheaper, and this does not prevent it from working, but it is still completely unpleasant.

Main advantages:

• Heating rate
• Solder quality
• Reliable welded stand
• Well made attachments

Minuses:

• In terms of assembly, to be honest, it looks more like a homemade product.

Models in the line:

• BISON AST-2000 – power 2000 W
• BISON AST-800 - power 800 W

VALFEX VWM-04A SET

Bort BRS-1000

Socket welding machine Bort BRS-1000

One of the simple but productive models with a power of 1000 W from the company Bort BRS-1000. High-quality soldering iron for polypropylene, made in turquoise color with a flat stand. Input voltage for operation is 230 V, frequency is 50-60 Hz.

Bort BRS-1000 is equipped with 6 additional nozzles ranging in size from 20 to 63 mm in diameter. The manufacturer completes the set with a screwdriver, a wrench for attachments and a plastic case. The device belongs to the household class, the nozzles are covered with Teflon, and the weight of the unit is 2 kg.

PROS:

• Heating time – 10 minutes
• Simple execution
• 6 nozzles

The best soldering irons for pipes must have a thermostat, which allows precise temperature control. All proposed models are characterized by high quality work, the welds are sealed and the pipes are not afraid of leakage. Having bought such a device for home, you can independently solder the plumbing and heating system.

CANDAN SM-04

Replenishes our rating of the best soldering irons for welding plastic pipes CANDAN SM-04. The Turkish company entered the market later than its famous colleagues from Europe, but has proven itself well. The two-kilowatt soldering iron CM-04 is designed to work with pipes with a diameter of 50 to 110 mm. The heater is made in two sections, with two “halves” turned on independently, that is, it can operate at a power of 1 kW if necessary.

The thermostat regulator is quite convenient and has a large handle. The temperature is maintained quite stable, the device is not prone to accidental overheating or underheating of the pipes if the heating time is maintained consistently by the owner. The complete stand is multifunctional - it can be used either simply on the floor or as a clamp for mounting on a workbench. But there are only three attachments in the kit; the rest will have to be purchased.

The soldering iron looks, which is logical for such a price, rather rough, but in practice it has proven itself to be worthy. So it has well deserved its popularity - a good welder for polypropylene pipes will find its buyer for reasonable money.

Main advantages:

• Two power modes
• Universal stand
• Low price when equipped with a suitcase and three attachments
• Non-stick coating

Minuses:

• Inconvenience of transportation
• Only three attachments included

RESANTA ASPT-1000

Socket welding machine RESANTA ASPT-1000

Another representative of soldering irons for polypropylene pipes for a small amount is a model from the company RESANTA ASPT-1000. The power of the device is 1000 W, operating frequency is 50 Hz. The temperature is regulated using a built-in thermostat.

A characteristic feature of the model is that there is no standard flat stand; instead, there are legs. This type of support is considered more stable when soldering pipes. The thermostat is located on the right, above it there are green and red indicator windows that notify you of connection to the network and temperature control.

The device is equipped with 6 nozzles - for 20,25,32,40,50 and 63 mm pipe diameter. The set also includes a screwdriver and heat-resistant gloves. The weight of the set is 2.85 kg, the nozzles are coated with non-stick Teflon.

PROS:

• Convenient metal case
• Compactness
• Good power
• Availability

MINUSES:

• Holes for couplings are located far from the edge

Wester DWM 1500LE

Socket welding machine Wester DWM 1500LE

This model is considered one of the most popular among soldering irons for polypropylene pipes. According to customer reviews, the device is easy to operate and heats up quickly and well. Its power is 1500 W, there is a thermostat inside that regulates the temperature from 0 to +300 degrees.

The input voltage of the Wester DWM 1500LE soldering iron is from 220 to 240 V, its frequency is 50-60 Hz. The kit includes 6 nozzles for pipes with a diameter of 20,25,32,40,50,63 mm. The manufacturer also provides a screwdriver in the kit, and the weight of the set is 2.2 kg.

The model is made in orange color; on the right side of the case there is a temperature regulator and two indicator buttons. The device is installed on a metal stand for ease of use. The spacious orange case allows you to quickly assemble the device for storage.

PROS:

• Fast adjustment
• Fast heating
• Easy
• Excellent selection of attachments

MINUSES:

• Unstable support

ELITECH SPT 1000

Socket welding machine ELITECH SPT 1000

This tool is distinguished by the fact that it has a rod heating platform. Block-type cooking attachments allow you to quickly connect a pipe and a fitting. The power of the unit is 1000 W; a thermostat acts as a temperature regulator from 0 to +300 degrees.

The voltage from which the tool operates is 220 V, frequency is 50 Hz. The set includes 4 nozzles for pipes with a diameter of 16, 20, 25 and 32 mm. The total weight of the kit is 2.6 kg, and the kit is equipped with a convenient red metal case.

The handle is made of polypropylene, it is equipped with anti-slip inserts so as not to drop the device during operation. On the top of the case there is a red and green indicator indicating the start of work. A long cable of 2 meters will allow you to work at a distance from the outlet, the heating time is 15 minutes.

PROS:

• Special coating of nozzles for long service life
• Light weight
• Temperature stability
• Good power and fast performance

MINUSES:

• No 40mm nozzle
• Temperature controller is not accurate

Which soldering iron for polypropylene pipes to choose

Before choosing a soldering iron, you need to decide how you will use it. If you need to solder plumbing or heating in your home, and then throw the welding machine in the closet, then I would buy a soldering iron - an “eared” one.

It is inexpensive and convenient when working with small pipe diameters. The only thing is that you should immediately buy Czech attachments with it, for example, Dytron. By the way, Ditron coats its nozzles with blue Teflon. I heard that this is anti-counterfeit protection.

If you plan to earn money by installing heating or plumbing, will often work with polypropylene and have a limited budget, then I would buy a Heisskraft soldering iron.

Well, if you are one of those who buy the most reliable tool, then Dytron is . Yes, this welding unit is expensive, but it is worth the money.

Power selection

To select the power of a soldering iron, you can use a simplified rule - multiply by 10 the diameter in millimeters of the largest nozzle that is supposed to be used to connect polypropylene pipes. Round the resulting value up.

It's always a good idea to have some reserve for maximum power, because a tool working at its maximum capacity will last less time.

But if a soldering iron is purchased for one-time work, for example, for making a heating system in a private house, the last statement can be neglected and not waste money on extra power. As they say, I did it and threw it away. It is unacceptable to use a device of insufficient power to heat heads with a large diameter.

The relatively large surface area of ​​the nozzle will provide strong heat dissipation, and it may never reach the desired temperature and melt the polypropylene material.

Operating principle of an electrical appliance

The operation of a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes is based on thermal softening of the surfaces of the parts being soldered and their subsequent connection.

The product with a socket is put on the mandrel, and the cut pipe is inserted into the hole of the heated sleeve. The parts are heated within the standard time specified in the instructions for each soldering iron separately. Then the parts are removed from the nozzles and connected.

If you have never done such work, we advise you to familiarize yourself with the technology of self-welding polypropylene pipes.

In the process of welding pipes, it is important to maintain uniform heating of both parts being joined, which can only be achieved with high-quality nozzles

For household and professional work

The choice of a soldering iron for soldering polypropylene pipes must be based, first of all, on determining the tasks to be performed by this tool.

The estimated power, temperature of the soldering iron, number of nozzles, the presence of a thermostat, and, accordingly, the price of the set, which is often an important factor when choosing, will depend on this.

For most polypropylene pipelines used for domestic purposes, pipes with a diameter of 16, 24 and 32 millimeters are used. In production, it is often necessary to connect pipes of larger diameters - 110 millimeters or more. Based on this, you can decide on the composition of the set.

For installing home pipelines, a simple device for polypropylene pipes with a minimum set of nozzles is suitable. With such a small variation in size, heating the heads will require approximately the same power, so for the sake of price, you can choose a soldering iron with a fixed power without a thermostat.

To manufacture complex pipeline networks with polypropylene pipes of various diameters, you will most likely need a high-power soldering iron and, of course, it will have to be adjusted for each nozzle to ensure the required temperature.

A professional soldering iron with nozzles of various diameters and adjustable power can also be used for soldering both polypropylene and polyethylene pipes when creating country or garden pipelines.

The melting point of polyethylene is about 200 ℃, and the presence of a power regulator will be in great demand here.