Capping and Connecting with Flexible End Caps, Elbows and Tees

What are flexible end caps, elbows and tees? Flexible end caps, elbows and tees are often used in the plumbing, waterworks, and sump and sewage industries. Flexible end caps are used for capping pipe ends, while flexible elbows and tees are used for attaching pipes together.

In this blog post, we will review what they are and their benefits, as well as outline some steps and tips for installation.

What are Flexible End Caps?

Flexible end caps, also known as test caps, cover pipe ends during testing or clean outs in drainage, waste and ventilation (DWV) systems. They are available with or without a hose bibb. Made from high-quality flexible PVC, they can be used to cap pipes in both above ground and underground applications. During testing, the curved face helps ensure the cap can endure high levels of pressure, and in turn, minimize ballooning. The caps come in sizes 1-1⁄2" through 4" and fit schedule 40 nominal pipe sizes.

Benefits of Flexible End Caps

Flexible end caps have many benefits. They are fast and easy to install which makes them perfect for temporary use. If need be, they can be used permanently as well. Flexible end caps are also reusable meaning that the same one can be used for future applications. Finally, flexible end caps are inexpensive making the purchase of them easy on the wallet.

How to Install Flexible End Caps

Installing flexible end caps is a relatively straightforward and simple process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Loosen the clamp on the cap until it fits loosely around the retainer, also known as the positioning groove, allowing the cap to expand and slip over the pipe easily.
   
2. Slide the cap over the spigot end of the pipe until the cap is in place.
   
3. Tighten the clamp to a maximum of 60 inch-lbs.
   

Some Helpful Installation Tips

There are a few helpful tips that can make installing flexible end caps even easier. During installation, ensure you do not over tighten the clamp. If the clamp becomes too tight, it could break. It is also recommended that you use a T-handle torque driver. The torque driver should be preset at 60 inch-lbs. Lastly, when installing a flexible end cap on a corrugated pipe, be sure to tighten it by hand.

What are Flexible Elbows and Tees?

While flexible end caps allow you to cap pipes, flexible elbows and tees allow you to connect pipes. Also made from high-quality flexible PVC, flexible elbows and tees connect above ground DWV systems. More specifically, they allow you to easily attach common drain, waste and vent pipes at a 90-degree angle.  Flexible couplings also allow you to easily attach pipe together. Check out this blog for 3 features to look for in flexible couplings.

Benefits of Flexible Elbows and Tees

Just like flexible end caps, flexible elbows and tees are also easy to install. Additionally, they are long-lasting as they are leak-proof, root-proof, and are resistant to chemicals, ultraviolet rays, fungus growth and typical sewer gases.

Hopefully, you’ve found this blog post helpful, and have learned something both interesting and useful about flexible end caps, elbows and tees. Whether you’re capping or connecting, please feel free to refer to this blog post when installing your next flexible end cap, elbow or tee.

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