How to Join PVC Pipe to an Elbow Joint

Joining plastic pipe to metal, is not a problem in itself. Any problems arise from the type of use -- such as pipes that are under pressure -- and the temperature influence on the different materials. If the pipe is used under pressure, it might be attached to the metal pipe by means of threaded ends, or rubber seals. PVC comes in various sizes from household water pipe to 48-inch sewer pipe.

1. Wire brush the threads on the metal elbow joint, until they are clean. If the metal elbow joint is a male thread, clean the threads with the wire brush. If the elbow threads are female, use the wire bottle brush to clean the threads internally.
2. Apply pipe thread sealer to the the metal elbow joint threads. The pipe thread sealer will help lubricate the threads and seal them, as the pipes are threaded together.
3. Thread the PVC pipe into the steel elbow joint. Use a pipe wrench to thread the PVC pipe into the elbow joint. If the metal elbow joint has a male thread -- place a metal hose clamp over the outside of the PVC female pipe end -- to prevent the PVC pipe from stretching or splitting. Use a screwdriver to tighten the clamp, after the PVC pipe is tightened.
4. Connect the PVC pipe to the desired plumbing, after the PVC pipe is connected to the elbow joint, as needed to complete the plumbing job.