Using Flax and Boss White?

deandean

Bravely going beyond qualpex here, I'll be putting in a central heating zone valve next weekend and I have to screw in two 3/4" BSP adaptors.

I have the hardware, plus Boss White plus Flax and I am hoping to get the joint right first time.

Any words of wisdom, e.g. how much flax do I apply?

Thanks for any advice

Deandean

davidoco

Watch thread direction. Normally clockwise so holding the fitting in your left hand with the thread pointing to your right hand you need to go over the top direction.:rolleyes:

Wet the thread with the jointing compound
With clean and dry hands work some flax into a flat strip 3" to 4" long.
The flak needs to go on the wet threads and then tighten it around the thread by working it in directionally by thumb and index finger. Add some compound if not wet enough. Then add some compound anyhow.

The amount of flak is key and when you make the joint if it's too much it will push down with the thread and you need to start again with new flax.

JohnnieK

I use flax all the time, hate PTFE tape. If you score the thread lightly first it will grip the flax preventing it from slipping up the thread.

Sh1t, I'm getting old, what's flax and what's wrong with ptfe

Joey the lips

I just thought i would add a note for all DIYERS, Plumbers who repair and general handy people.

I hate the mess boss white and flax leaves a fitting in. Especially bath taps

gdavis

but u cant beat it if u want watertight joints everytime!

DoneDL

Flax or Hemp cannot be used on water supplies hot or cold including the cylinder. It is questionable if it can even be used on heating as it poses a risk through cross contamination.

Bruthal

Cross contamination has to be avoided anyway, as the CH water has inhibitor in it.

JohnnieK

If it has a thread I use Flax. Far to often I've gone to tail peices and coil fittings that are leaking and there is ptfe tape on them. You wouldn't be putting PTFE on a 2" fitting:)

deandean

Got the job done last night new zone valve fitted and I am very pleased to say, no leaks!

Thanks all for your input especially davidoco. It was messy getting the flax wet through but I see why it is necessary.