Latest Frequently Asked Questions
Does Oatey offer cements that will bond High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polyethylene (PE), Polypropylene (PP), or PEX?
No. Oatey doesn’t manufacture any solvent cements or bonding adhesives that will work with these plastics at this time.
How do I dispose of solvent cements?
You should always check the guidelines set forth by your local municipalities or local fire department for disposal of hazardous materials.
What is the definition and differences between PVC, ABS and CPVC materials?
ABS/Acrylonitrile-Butadiene-Styrene is only used for drainage, waste and vent (DWV) systems. PVC/Poly Vinyl Chloride is normally used on DWV systems, but in some cases can be used in pressure fluid applications (check with pipe manufacture for specific application guidelines). CPVC/ Chlorinated Poly Vinyl Chloride is normally used exclusively with pressure fluid systems with a variety of temperatures and pressures (check with pipe manufacture for specific application guidelines).
Can I use green transition cement to join different types of pipe together?
Green transition cement can be used to join ABS to PVC or any variation of the two, but only if local building codes approve the application.
What is the definition of Low VOC?
VOC means “Volatile Organic Compound”. Volatile describes a liquid that evaporates at room temperature and Organic is a compound that contains carbon. A low VOC level is considered at or below 150g/L and g/L are grams per liter.
What cements allow for the shortest set-up time, for multiple joint assemblies?
The heavy duty cement has the shortest working time once the joint has been assembled on pipe sizes up to 4” diameter. However, the heavy duty cement has the slowest set up time before the joint is assembled because of the slow evaporation process. Any pipe sizes over 4” should be discussed with the technical department.
What PVC cements allow for the longest set-up time, for multiple joint assemblies?
The regular body cement has the longest working time once the joint has been assembled on pipe sizes up to 4” diameter. However, the regular body cement has the quickest set up time before the joint is assembled because of the quick evaporation process. Any pipe sizes over 4” should be discussed with the technical department.
What cements do not require that the pipe is primed first?
There are a few specialty PVC and CPVC cements which do not require the pipe / fittings to be primed before the cementing process, but you still must check with your local municipality to see if they require priming the pipe and fittings first. Remember to never use primer on or with ABS products.
What cements do not contain MEK?
The only cement that this applies to, is the Oatey All Weather. There is still the possibility of trace MEK residue since multiple cements are mixed in the mixers.
Should I let primer dry before applying the cement?
The primer should still be wet when applying the cement. This means that the chemicals within the primer are still evaporating, but the appearance will look dry. The proper time frame to apply cement and finish the joint assembly is within five (5) minutes after the primer is applied.
How do I know what cement to use with what product (material and diameter)?
If you have questions regarding what product to use, please contact our technical department for job specific application guidelines.
Can I use PVC cement to join ABS to PVC?
No. Oatey has green transition cement for this application. Before using this product on your project, you will need to check with your local building officials to insure it is approved in your municipality.