Journeyman Plumber ExamWater Supply SystemsMedium
A plumber is installing a water distribution system using PEX tubing with crimp-style connections. Which of the following statements about proper crimp ring installation is correct?
- AThe crimp ring should be placed over the PEX tubing and positioned so it fully covers the barb fitting, without extending beyond the tubing end.
- BThe crimp ring should be positioned approximately 1/8 inch from the end of the PEX tubing.
- CThe crimp ring should be centered over the barb fitting, covering at least two barbs.
- DThe crimp ring must be flush with the end of the PEX tubing to ensure a watertight seal.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The crimp ring should be placed over the PEX tubing and positioned so it fully covers the barb fitting, without extending beyond the tubing end.
For a proper crimp connection, the crimp ring must be positioned over the PEX tubing so that it fully covers the barb fitting, without extending beyond the end of the tubing. This ensures that the crimp tool compresses the ring evenly around the fitting's barbs, creating a secure and watertight seal.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Positioning 1/8 inch from the end is incorrect and may lead to leakage or a weak connection.
- C. While covering at least two barbs is important, simply 'centered' doesn't guarantee the ring fully covers the barb fitting without extending beyond the tubing end.
- D. Being flush with the end is too far for proper compression over the barbs.
PEX Crimp Connection
A method of joining PEX tubing to fittings using a copper or stainless steel crimp ring that is compressed around the tubing and fitting barb with a specialized crimp tool.
- Requires proper positioning of the crimp ring over the barb fitting.
- Crimp tool must be calibrated and used correctly for a secure seal.
- Connections can be visually inspected for proper crimp.
Memory trick: Crimp ring: Cover the barb, not the tube's edge.