slip vs thread bulkhead

[bcjm]

Trying to buy some bulkheads for small tanks ( 10 - 30 G). What are the pros and cons using slip vs thread? My though is why will anyone use slip type? You can't make it water tight unless you glue a connector in it, isn't it?

 

[delphinus]

I use teflon tape on the threading, three wraps and the connection is watertight.

The only issue is I don't know if it's copesetic to have teflon under the waterline, i.e., on the inside of the bulkhead for a standing pipe or something like that. I imagine it's OK, but I'm not sure.

I'd like to hear what other people think about that idea.

 

[Anonymous]

hi.
I used threaded pipe whenever I can, so that when I reconfig the plumbing, I can reuse some of the parts. However, for some reason, I have all slip bulkheads...

I did not glue the elbows to the bulkheads, they just slide into them tighly. No leaks, just very minor salt creeps on one of them that is of no concern. YMMV.

Oh, one more thing. Telfon is inert to sea water, so it is perfectly ok to use it.

[ November 29, 2001: Message edited by: seven ephors ]</p>

 

[Anonymous]

<blockquote><font size="1" face="Verdana, Helvetica, sans-serif">quote:</font><hr>Originally posted by bcjm:
<strong>What are the pros and cons using slip vs thread? My though is why will anyone use slip type? You can't make it water tight unless you glue a connector in it, isn't it?</strong><hr></blockquote>

Most bulkhead plumbing is permanent. A slip bulkhead is superior for this as it will not leak and you must use cement. Any threaded connection while most likely leakproof, is never as solid or as trustworthy as a cemented connection.

 

[Super Len]

Conversely, a threaded connection is removable, while a glued slip connection is permanent. It's not a major issue since I see very little reason to ever have to alter the fitting.

Teflon is insoluable in seawater, and as inert as any material we use. It poses no danger. I should know: I sell teflon tape

 

[dsb1829]

I typically buy the slip/slip bulkhead kits with strainers. I can pick these up for $5 in 1" size at my lfs. I prefer to use threaded bulkheads, but they are usually cost prohibitive (also require larger holes typically). So I generally just use slip fitted ones. Only provision I use is to make sure to have atleast an extra 1.5" of pipe before the next connection. This gives me enough pipe to cut off and install a different fitting if I make a mistake or decide to change. Basically I can run two configurations this way before I have to replace the bulkhead. I haven't had to replace a bulkhead yet, so it works for me.