10 best soldering irons for pipes

The rating from our editors presents the best models of soldering irons for pipes, allowing for high-quality installation of heating, watering or plumbing systems. The TOP 10 is compiled based on user reviews and analysis of the current market. Therefore, here you will find only reliable, proven machines for welding polypropylene pipes and fittings, excellent options for home use or industrial use. A review from our experts will help you understand the variety of soldering irons and determine which one is best suited for solving your tasks.

Which brand of soldering iron should I choose?

Soldering irons for polypropylene pipes are produced by almost many companies, both domestic and foreign. But only a few brands offer quality products at reasonable prices. Among countless brands, our editors have selected the five best:

UNION . The Russian company supplies household-grade tools made in China. Prices for soldering irons and other equipment are below market prices, but the quality is quite decent. An extended warranty of 14 months and a wide network of service centers protect the interests of customers and ensure quick repairs.
Resanta . The products of the Latvian brand are recognizable and have long proven themselves to be the best. The company has focused its activities on impeccable manufacturing quality of a wide range of products.
Elitech . The brand is known as a reliable manufacturer of tools and equipment for household and professional use. The range includes both good devices for home use and expensive professional soldering irons.
Candan . This is not the first year that the Turkish manufacturer has been supplying the domestic market with reliable devices with a long working life. This is one of the few brands that produces models for welding pipes up to 75 mm.
Wester . The company supplies the market with several groups of tools and welding equipment, including popular soldering irons for home repairs or professional services. The key feature of the company is the production of durable equipment that is unpretentious to external conditions and overloads.

Socket welding

This technology is available for use in absolutely any conditions. The requirements for careful alignment of the mating elements and ensuring the required compressive force remain unchanged, but their implementation is achieved in a completely different way - thanks to clearly thought-out dimensions of the pipe and coupling.

The outer diameter of the pipe (Dнt) is always much larger than the inner diameter of the coupling (Dвm), that is, in the normal state it is simply impossible to make the connection. In order to achieve a good connection, you need to simultaneously heat the outer surface of the pipe and the inner coupling. In this case, the length of the heated areas in relation to the edges of the parts is approximately the same.

Connection points between pipe and coupling

After warming up, you need to apply manual force so that the pipe enters the coupling to the penetration depth. In this case, it is difficult to make a mistake in the alignment of the connection (although it is still not worth leaving everything to chance and minimal control is necessary). The specificity of the diameter of the parts is such that the required compression force in the mating area is provided independently; all that is required of you is to hold the parts well in the desired position until polymerization of the material occurs.

Best Inexpensive Pipe Soldering Irons

The group of the best, but inexpensive models includes household-grade soldering irons, the welding of plastic pipes with which is limited to domestic conditions (house, garage, cottage or apartment). They are characterized by cheaper prices, “weak” equipment, and average power parameters. Minor defects cannot be ruled out, such as a slight backlash, a thin platform without additional fasteners. Basic parameters, such as temperature conditions, type of pipes and fittings being welded, heating adjustment, are not significantly inferior to professional soldering irons.

ELITECH SPT 800

The ELITECH SPT-800 soldering iron has a standard, familiar design and typical parameters. The power of the device is 800 W, the equipment is limited - no pipe cutters, tape measure and level. A set of nozzles from 20 to 63. This is a good household welder with which you can lay a pipeline at home, in an apartment, in a country house, or in a garage. The resource of the internal mechanism is more than enough for several years of continuous use. However, the household soldering iron model is not without its drawbacks - the soldering iron leg may be curved and will have to be modified. The heating indicators are faded and barely visible in bright sunlight.

Advantages:

reliable mechanism;
low cost;
high-quality case;
good selection of attachments;
average power consumption – the device can be used without a serious load on the network;
clear and detailed instructions.

Flaws:

meager equipment.

SOYUZ STS-7220

SOYUZ soldering irons have been very popular among knowledgeable craftsmen for several years now. At a minimally low price, these devices are able to work properly for more than one year, without overloads or failures. It is worth noting here good protection against overheating, fast and stable heating, and high-quality Teflon coating of the nozzles. The price of the soldering iron has been reduced due to the reduced base, where there are only two holes for nozzles. The package includes a good-quality case with metal latches, one screwdriver and six good dies with a diameter of 20 to 63 mm. The standard diameter of the holes on the iron allows you to purchase additional matrices of other diameters.

Advantages:

low price with good quality;
presence of a case;
high-quality matrices;
long network cable;
14 month warranty

Flaws:

the quality of assembly and parts of the soldering iron is poor;
high energy consumption - 2 kW.

Kolner KPWM 800MC

The welder for polypropylene pipes from Kolner is 100% household and suitable for assembling a water supply system at home or for watering in a summer cottage. To confirm this, the price is lower than the analogue from SOYUZ, the equipment is stripped down and there are only three matrix attachments with diameters of 20, 25 and 32 mm. A soldering iron with the simplest possible layout does not have a temperature regulator and is equipped with a simple stand, which users often have to “modify with a file.” Despite its efficiency, the device copes with the assigned tasks and is cheaper than renting a tool.

Advantages:

The best inexpensive pipe soldering iron on the market;
familiar design;
compact dimensions;
heating rate;
good thermostat and high-quality heating of workpieces.

Flaws:

matrices of only three diameters with budget Teflon coating;
no temperature adjustment.

Design of welding machine for PPR

A hand-held electric soldering iron (craftsmen call it an “iron”), designed for soldering plastic pipes and fittings, consists of the following parts:

housing with a transformer block, thermostat and controls, equipped with a handle;
a heating element with a power of 500 to 2 kW is installed in front of the case, depending on the model;
stand and power cable connected to a regular 220 volt outlet.

Using the regulator, you can set the heating temperature of the mandrel within 0...300 degrees.
Polypropylene parts are heated using nozzles with a diameter of 16...63 mm (household series), coated with a Teflon non-stick layer. The appearance and principle of operation of the device has a certain similarity with a conventional iron:

The user turns on the heating and sets the required temperature with the regulator, for polypropylene – 260 °C.
When the platform with nozzles reaches a preset temperature threshold, the thermostat turns off the heating element.
During the process of soldering the pipes, the surface of the “iron” begins to cool, so the automation activates the heating again.

Teflon-coated nozzles consist of 2 parts - a pipe is inserted into one, a fitting is inserted into the second

For welding parts made of PP-R, a deviation from the established limit of no more than 5 degrees is allowed; polypropylene is heated to the melting threshold. Exceeding the temperature leads to a change in the structure of the material - the plastic “flows” and fills the flow section of the pipe.

Insufficient heating results in a poor-quality connection that loses its tightness after 3-12 months. How to properly weld a polypropylene joint, read in a separate material.

The best soldering irons for welding polypropylene pipes combination of price and quality

The best models in the price-quality combination are soldering irons at an affordable price, the characteristics and capabilities of which are close to the professional class. The devices are more powerful, often equipped with not one, but two separate heating elements. Also, soldering irons of this group are equipped with good dies with a dense Teflon coating, designed for a large number of cycles. The stands are also excellent - they are more durable and stable, and, therefore, the welding process is safer and more comfortable.

RESANTA ASPT-2000

The household soldering iron model ASPT-2000 from Resanta has the optimal combination of price and quality. The device will serve the owner for many years, even with frequent pipe welding. The soldering iron is distinguished by a reliable design and high-quality internal mechanism; its resource is enough to lay a water supply system, heating system, and irrigation. A sensitive thermostat will turn off heating at a minimum temperature rise. The equipment is not rich, but there are 6 matrices of 20-63 diameters with a very high-quality Teflon coating.

Advantages:

excellent quality and extended service life;
durable matrices;
excellent equipment;
fast heating speed;
long warranty (3 years);
stable support and thick-walled metal case.

CANDAN CM-03

One of the best pipe machines in terms of power and reliability is used for welding reinforced and unreinforced polypropylene pipes with a diameter of 16 to 75 mm. Large parts can be welded thanks to the increased power of 1.5 kW and the temperature reserve - the working area heats up to 320 degrees. Of the options, the SM-03 has everything you need - two separate heating awnings consume 750 W each and can be switched on separately, temperature adjustment is manual, from 50 degrees. For protection, the soldering iron is equipped with a thermal relay that turns off the device at minimal overheating.

The soldering iron is sold in two versions: in a cardboard box or in a metal case with a complete set. The choice depends on the availability of components and the scope of the upcoming tasks.

Advantages:

fast heating, welding of large diameter pipes;
the shape of the heater is xiphoid, with the possibility of simultaneous installation of matrices of different diameters;
unpretentiousness and low cost;
high-quality equipment;
iron made of stainless steel with a high service life.

Flaws:

The set includes only 4 matrices (20-40 mm).

Wester DWM 1500

The best model of soldering iron for polypropylene pipes, according to customer reviews, is suitable for both domestic use and for carrying out installation work on an ongoing basis. A power of 1.5 kW is enough to instantly heat up to 300 degrees and weld pipes up to 63 mm. The device quickly reaches the set temperature, allowing for efficient welding work. The iron frame is made of thick metal, fixing the soldering iron is reliable and simple. A clamp on the stand allows you to attach the device to a workbench or other surface. The equipment is rich, but users note the poor quality of the pipe cutter and tape measure. An inexpensive, neatly made soldering iron can be easily mastered even by a master without experience.

Advantages:

reliable frame with clamp;
excellent build quality;
accuracy of thermostat operation;
Includes 6 matrices with durable Teflon coating (20-63 mm);
comfortable handle with anti-slip coating.

Flaws:

short service life of the tape measure and pipe cutter.

ELITECH SPT 1500

This is an improved model SPT-800, which has higher parameters and heating speed. The power reserve allows you to quickly weld PVC pipes with a diameter of up to 63 mm. Temperature control provides precise settings for optimal heating of pipes of different diameters. Separately, it is worth noting the successful design, “handy” and comfortable frame with a built-in clamp. The soldering iron is easy to install and remove from the stand, and if necessary, it can be firmly fixed to the workbench.

The rich set includes everything you need for pipe welding - gloves, screwdriver, hex wrench, tape measure, pipe cutting scissors. You can put attachments of three diameters on the iron at once, saving time on heating. The soldering iron is supplied in a case made of durable, thick metal.

Advantages:

good equipment;
reasonable cost;
high-quality and comfortable stand;
accuracy of thermostat operation.

Butt welding

Pipes with the same diameter

This technology is intended for connecting pipes of the same type, with an identical diameter. It is very important to ensure strict alignment of the parts being joined and to prepare the ends well for an ideal initial fit of the surfaces.

For installation work you will need a pipe cutter. More information about pipe cutters for polypropylene pipes can be found in this article

Then, both ends of the mating pipes are heated simultaneously so that they melt to the required depth over the entire cross-sectional area.

Then comes the stage of compression of the mating parts - this is achieved thanks to mechanical force, with counter vectors that are directed strictly along the axis of the pipe. Ultimately, a diffusion effect is observed in the polypropylene melting area, i.e. mutual penetration of the polymer. Next comes the necessary technological pause to ensure complete polymerization and obtain a monolithic compound.

Full polymerization process

The technology itself is quite labor-intensive. As already mentioned, it is very important that the ends are well processed, that they are located on the same axis, and that the amount of force applied must be strictly observed. It is very difficult to meet all these conditions without using a machine for welding polypropylene pipes.

At home, butt welding is rarely used! It is usually more in demand in a professional environment.

The best professional pipe soldering irons

The best soldering irons in terms of power and build quality are designed for continuous use for a long time. They are equipped with more precise temperature controllers; the relay reacts even to slight overheating and protects the device from damage. The equipment supplied is always of good quality - pipe cutters, dies, screwdrivers are designed for long-term use.

Additionally, “pro” level equipment is equipped with:

Microprocessors and displays;
Electronic temperature control;
Settings for welding pipes made of different materials (PVC, PP).

Wester DWM 1000A

The device is designed for professionals - high working life, high-quality and very comfortable stand, ergonomic handle. Convenience is provided by a digital display that shows the current heating, and electronic temperature control. A sensitive thermal relay reports overheating with an audible signal and turns off the heating elements to avoid damage to the parts being connected. The power consumption of the soldering iron is only 1 kW - it will not overload the network, but at the same time it will qualitatively weld pipes and fittings up to 63 mm.

Advantages:

high quality matrix coating;
electronic display and temperature control;
impressive warranty (5 years);
ease of adjustment;
stable stand.

Flaws:

temperature error up to 15 degrees;
Pipe cutting scissors are not included in the package.

Dytron Polys P-4a 650W TraceWeld Solo

A high-quality professional machine for welding with block-type matrices, designed for intensive use and regular load. You can place three attachments on the work area at once. A soldering iron is used for installing water supply and heating systems made of polypropylene. Precise microprocessor settings allow you to set the type of material to be welded and the required temperature. Thanks to the advanced design, the soldering iron is very lightweight and convenient.

Advantages:

the best professional soldering iron for polypropylene pipes;
a complete set of dies with a diameter from 16 to 63 mm;
special coating of nozzles prevents PVC sticking;
economical energy consumption while maintaining stable temperature;
built-in timer.

Flaws:

high price.

CANDAN SM-01

An inexpensive but good 1.5 kW pipe welding machine quickly heats up to the set temperature and allows you to solder pipes with diameters from 16 to 75 mm. Maximum heating is up to 320 degrees; when the set temperature is exceeded, a protective relay is activated. The soldering iron is equipped with four “running” dies of 20-40 mm, a good pipe cutter, as well as a screwdriver and a tape measure. Packaging: metal case with secure latches. According to user reviews, the model is called “indestructible” even with hard use for a long time. Therefore, the device is excellent for frequent use and soldering in large volumes.

Advantages:

a powerful soldering iron welds pipes with a diameter of up to 75 mm;
two separate heating elements;
clamp on a stand;
high quality of materials and workmanship;
strong foundation;
convenient pipe cutter and precise temperature controller.

Flaws:

lack of a complete set of matrices.

Features of using a soldering iron

The official name of the equipment is welding machine. However, it is popularly called a soldering iron by analogy with the mode of operation or an iron due to its specific shape. The working part heats up to 300 °C and heats up the matrix nozzles located on both sides.

One matrix is responsible for heating the outer part of the pipe, the second is responsible for heating the inner part of the fitting. Both elements are held on the soldering iron at the same time, then quickly joined. Polypropylene cools, forming a strong, permanent connection. This is how all sections of the pipeline are connected. Most models are equipped with a stand, so the soldering iron can be installed and soldered on the desktop. This reduces the burden on workers and ensures comfort during work.

All that remains is to connect only those pipe joints that are located in hard-to-reach places. Then the device is removed from the stand, soldering is carried out at the place where the pipeline is laid. To prevent burns, the technician holds the device by the handle. However, the equipment is quite bulky, and it is not always convenient to hold it suspended. That is why it is more often used for stationary work, and the finished sections of the pipeline are laid in accordance with the diagram.

Another type of welding machine is a cylinder on which matrices are attached. An undoubted advantage of such models is the ability to secure the nozzles in any position: at the ends or in the middle part of the cylinder. Thanks to the design features, it is possible to work with the most difficult areas, including places with difficult access, close to the wall, the presence of all kinds of obstacles, and complex room geometry. The tool itself is compact, so it is easy to take it anywhere. Such models are equipped with a cord of at least two meters, which allows the technician to move freely around the work area. When stationary use is necessary, the soldering iron can be mounted on a hinged bracket.

If you follow the soldering technology and have a good welding machine, the results are reliable, and the service life of the pipeline can exceed 100 years. However, before you begin to understand the process itself, you should choose a suitable soldering iron.

Criteria for choosing a soldering iron for polypropylene pipes

To choose the right soldering iron for pipes, you should pay attention to the main factors:

Temperature Range . The optimal takeoff is from 50 to 300 degrees - this is dictated by the technology of welding polypropylene pipes. A lower temperature may not be enough, and a high lower threshold will not allow you to cook small diameters.
Power . The minimum value is 600 W and above, good power varies from 1.1 to 1.5 kW. Devices consuming more than 2 kW are classified as semi-professional or professional; such characteristics are useful if the soldering iron is used frequently.
Construction and protective options . It is important that the device has high-quality protection against overheating - this will protect the working sole and internal mechanism from damage. You should also choose models with reliable, stable support and clear temperature control.
Equipment . It is necessary to have matrices in the kit corresponding to the diameter of the pipes (20, 25, 32 mm or others), so the scope of the upcoming tasks must be determined before purchasing. In addition to the solder itself and the dies, you need a tape measure, special scissors, a level, a marking pencil, a hex key, a screwdriver and gloves to protect against burns. It is convenient when all accessories are already included in the kit.

Features of welding polypropylene

In order to carry out the process of joining polypropylene pipes, the person performing welding work needs to have a clear understanding of what processes provide a strong and reliable seam.

Polypropylene is a thermoplastic polymer. When it heats up to a certain temperature, it begins to soften and melt, gradually transforming into liquid. However, upon cooling, it hardens again, while its physicochemical properties and mechanical strength remain unchanged.

More information about polypropylene pipes is presented here

It turns out that if two elements made of polypropylene are heated in the joint area until softened, but at the same time not allowing the product to deform, and then combine them, then interpenetration of the molten layers will result.

Connected elements without seams

After reverse polymerization, a conjugation is formed, which is characterized by complete solidity. If you look at a cross-section of a high-quality connection unit, the boundary between the two elements most likely cannot even be visually determined.

In order for the process of welding polypropylene pipes to be as efficient as possible, two important conditions must be met: heat the products to the stage of melting of the joints and ensure their compression for the interpenetration of plastic and final polymerization. This is achieved through two technological methods.

Additional functions and components

The following additional features and components may affect which plastic pipe welding machine you choose.

Power adjustment . Power adjustment in devices can only be stepped. If you need to install a pipeline with a small cross-section, you can set the power to a minimum, while saving energy. By turning on two heating elements at the same time, you increase the heating rate.
Temperature adjustment . Typically, devices have smooth temperature control, so you can customize this parameter for a specific type of work.
Thermostat . The thermostat turns the device on or off when it reaches the required temperature. This saves energy and prevents the device from running constantly. Also, it does not need to be turned off every time the parts are heated. There is a thermostat in all models that have temperature control.
Pipe cutter . Some manufacturers additionally equip soldering irons for polypropylene with pipe cutters. Using them you can cut the pipe to the length you need. On average, a normal pipe cutter costs 1,500 rubles, but you can save it by purchasing it complete with a welding machine.
Case . At first glance, this may seem like a small thing, but carrying a soldering iron with all the attachments in a regular bag is not entirely convenient. The metal case is convenient to store and transport the tool, and it will last you longer.

Home Appliances
Why is the “grinder” called “grinder”

Video description

What professional builders think about the ELITECH SPT1500 soldering iron, watch the video:

BISON AST-2000

This welding machine is made in a rather original way - a regular piece of profiled pipe is used for mounting on the stand, and the body is a rectangular box. But the unit turned out to be cheap and reliable.

The BISON AST-2000 soldering machine has a fairly simple design, but this does not affect the quality of work in any way Source ytimg.com

It is equipped with 6 nozzles, can be used for pipes with a cross-section of 20-63 millimeters. High-quality Teflon coating, heated pipes can be easily removed. The heater is two-section, quickly reaches the required temperature. Due to its design, the equipment is relatively heavy; when used by weight, your hands get tired quickly.

Advantages:

reliable soldering;
fast warm-up;
high-quality nozzles;
convenient stand.

Disadvantages: Appearance resembles a homemade design.

Power overview

Welded devices for polymer pipes come in different capacities, from 600 to 2000 W.

To connect 50 mm and smaller workpieces, standard heaters are used that support a power of 1 kW. For a larger cross-section, you will need a power of 1.7-2 kW.

But this rule does not always work. The market offers us ultra-efficient installations that consume less than 1 kW and are capable of welding pipe blanks with a maximum diameter.

Professionals pay attention to universal tools with maximum power.

Hobbyists are interested in inexpensive devices that can solder at least two or three standard sizes of workpieces.

Power up to 1000 W

A soldering iron with this power is available in both sword-shaped and cylindrical types. The difference between devices up to 1000 W is that they have one heating element, so the matrix heats up slowly and the welding process is long.

The equipment of the devices is directly related to their cost. The simple device has light induction, a toggle switch and a thermostat. Expensive ones have a display that can accurately maintain the required temperature using electronics.

The following models have proven themselves well:

Inforce 03-24-01 (Russia) - voltage 1000 W, sword-shaped heater, digital display and electronic regulator.
Gigant GPW-1000 - Russian device, mechanical adjustment. Capable of quickly heating to a given degree.
Elitech SPT 1000 is a compact device with a cylindrical soldering iron, mechanical adjustment and a metal folding stand.
Caliber SVA-1000T (Russia) is a cylindrical heater with three nozzles. There are two diodes - network and temperature.

Power over 1000 W

Devices for stitching polypropylene pipe products with voltages from 1500 to 2000 W have increased productivity. The difference between this equipment is the speed of heating and the speed of stitching, but this does not affect the quality of the seams in any way.

These soldering irons with improved configuration have two heating elements that turn on simultaneously and alternately.

Proven high performance models include:

Inforce 03-12-02 - power 1700 W, two switches to set one of three modes (700, 1000, 1700), sword-shaped heater.
PATRIOT PW 205 (2000 W) - sword-shaped soldering plate, X-shaped pedestal, there are two toggle switches to adjust the power.
Elitech SPT 1500 is a pointed sword-shaped heater that heats up quickly.
STURM TW7218 is a powerful cylindrical soldering iron (1800 W), the ability to adjust the temperature level from 0 to 300 degrees.

The best manufacturers

Having dealt with the selection criteria, you are puzzled by a new question: “Which company is better?” In the modern market there is a pleasing variety of brands and pricing policies for the buyer. If you have a desire to buy a branded item, then you should take a closer look at the following manufacturers:

Rothenberger is a well-known European company that produces high-quality products for all kinds of repair work. The products are popular among professionals in their craft;

In addition to these brands, tools from companies such as CANDAN, ENCOR, RESANTA and other slightly less well-known manufacturers received well-deserved love.

How not to make a mistake with your choice?

Soldering of polypropylene water pipes occurs at elevated temperatures. To choose the right device that will ensure tight fastening and safe work, you need to focus on several significant characteristics.

First, pay attention to the power of the welding machine. The higher this indicator, the better the performance and maximum heating temperature. The unit should heat the seam well, without melting the material to a sticky state and without leaving black marks. It is preferable to use manual-type devices with a power of up to 2000 W.

Secondly, look at the set of welding attachments. It’s the same here – the more, the better. Household devices are capable of working with pipe diameters of no more than 50-63 mm. Above this indicator, professional soldering begins, requiring a different type of equipment. Medium and small diameters are best suited for independent installation of communications and further work.

Thirdly, evaluate the coating material of the device and its components. The ideal solution today is a heat-resistant Teflon coating that maintains the temperature of the device and does not allow it to go beyond acceptable limits. You should not choose devices with an unprotected metal or plastic coating - these materials are susceptible to destruction.

Safety and ease of use should be a priority when choosing a pipe welder. If not included in the kit, be sure to purchase gloves and a pipe cutter to facilitate the soldering process, as well as to protect yourself from possible injuries and burns.

Best lists

Below you can find out about the best soldering irons in three popular categories:

affordable price;
for beginners;
professional.

Let us dwell in more detail on the description of these categories and the leading devices in them.

Affordable price

Resanta ASPT-1000 65/54 is considered the best soldering iron in the budget category. With its help, any user can connect a large number of pipes of different sizes and materials. In addition to the device itself, the package includes a stand, a screwdriver, a storage case and a key. The device is also equipped with special indicators showing the network connection and temperature mode. The nozzles can last for a long time due to the high-quality material they are made of.

Cost: from 1,000 to 1,400 rubles.

Resanta ASPT-1000 65/54

For beginners

ENKOR ASP-1500/20-63 is one of the simplest soldering irons. Suitable for all users faced with the task of installing water and heating pipes. The device involves fast and uniform heating of pipes of different sizes and diameters. Involves the use of three nozzles and a thermostat at once. In operation, it actively uses two heating modes. Additionally, the package includes 6 couplings of different sizes.

The price is around 2500 rubles.

ENKOR ASP-1500/20-63

Professional

The Rothenberger Roweld Rofuse Print+ is a machine with German build quality. The device allows you to connect pipes whose diameter can reach 1200 meters. The main difference between the model and most competitors is the protocolized cooking process. It is possible to save all data on a USB drive, making control and analysis of the process chain several times simpler.

Cost: from 150,000 to 200,000 rubles.

Rothenberger Roweld Rofuse Print+