Hello! I have arthritis and was looking for a pex crimp tool for steel rings that is much easier than the one I currently own (sharkbite brand). 1/2 inch are ok but anything above gives me trouble. Would appreciate any suggestions on an easier tool to compress. Thanks!
Easiest pex crimp tool for steel rings
- Thread starter Kenpone
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Add extensions on the handles to make them longer.
Or you can buy a battery operated crimper.
The rings are copper, not steel.
The stainless steel cinch rings are an option and they use a ratchet type tool that’s easy on your hands.
Expansion pex also is very easy if you use the battery expansion tool.
Or you can buy a battery operated crimper.
The rings are copper, not steel.
The stainless steel cinch rings are an option and they use a ratchet type tool that’s easy on your hands.
Expansion pex also is very easy if you use the battery expansion tool.
I would use PEX A expansion rather than PEX B crimp. The biggest reason is for flow. 1/2 PEX B fittings have a smaller inside diameter than 1/2 copper and PEX A is between those two with it's 1/2 fittings. In fact it takes 3/4 size fitting to get the same inside diameter as 1/2 copper pipe. However there is far more water turbulence inside the pipe than properly installed copper. That's because the fittings have sharp edges. PEX A pipe has to be expanded for the fittings to go inside the pipe. They also create turbulence however due to the pipe being much more flexible where other pipes would require a 90 degree fitting the pipe will bend reducing turbulence overall compared to other pipes.
I don't know I repiped my basement and added a 1st fl laundry with 1/2" PEX and copper crimp rings I don't have issues
Seems overly complicated.
With good pressure and proper install there’s nothing wrong with crimp insert fittings.
I see different PEX B crimping tools advertised for copper and stainless rings. Will one type work for both ?
I don't think so one tool will do both one has jaws that open and clamp the ring around the pipe the other does not clamp around the pipe just on the side
Nope
Integrity Repipe
Member
If you’re experiencing hand fatigue or discomfort when using PEX crimp tools, a ratcheting-style crimper might be a great alternative. Ratcheting tools lock in place between squeezes, allowing you to apply force gradually rather than all at once. This can significantly reduce strain on arthritic hands while still achieving a solid, leak-free connection. Some brands offer ergonomic ratcheting models that work well with steel rings. If hand strength continues to be an issue, another option is to switch to a PEX expansion system, which eliminates the need for crimping altogether.
