Thread Sealants – 4 Tips for a Secure Seal

Threaded connections are common in various industries, from plumbing to manufacturing, and they play a vital role in ensuring the integrity of fluid systems. However, even the most well-crafted threads can be vulnerable to leaks if not sealed properly. This is where thread sealants are important. Thread sealants are substances designed to seal in threaded connections, preventing leaks and ensuring the safety and efficiency of the system. In this article, we will explore four essential tips for achieving a secure  seal using thread sealants.

Tip #1: Choose the thread sealant for your application

There are a variety of different thread sealants to choose from, including thread sealing tape, anaerobic thread sealants or thread compounds – so it’s important to choose the right one for the job. For example using PTFE tape can be suitable for small or temporary applications, however it is not the best option for professional plumbing systems applications, where a permanent, high-strength seal is required.

Key things to consider include:

• Are you sealing plumbing systems or commercial applications?
• Are you sealing gas or water lines?
• Will the pipe be exposed to chemicals?
• What is the material of your thread?

The thread sealant you choose should be compatible with the pipe material and the contents you will be working with. For DIYers, homeowners and maintenance plumbing applications – PTFE tape can be handy to keep in your toolbox. For permanent plumbing systems and other professional applications, you’ll need to look for a thread sealant designed for long-lasting and high-strength bonding. We recommend going with an anaerobic sealant such as Loxeal 58-11. Unlike thread-sealing compounds that may crack overtime,  anaerobic thread sealants cure when oxygen is expelled to form a solid seal.

For more information on selecting the right thread sealant, read our full article here.

Tip 2#: Clean and degrease threads before use

Grease, dirt, and other residues can prevent the sealant from adhering properly and can result in leaks – so it’s vital to get your threads prepped before sealing! Ensure the pipe is clean with the following steps:

Degrease: If the pipe is greasy, use a degreasing agent, cleaner or solvent to clean the threads thoroughly. Ensure that no trace of oil, grease, or debris remains.

Scrub: In case of stubborn contaminants, use a wire brush to scrub the threads. Be gentle to avoid damaging the threads themselves.

Dry: Any residual moisture can also affect the sealing process. Use a rag or some paper towels to remove any remaining liquid.

Tip 3# Apply sealant or tape evenly along the thread

A common mistake with thread sealing is applying thread seal tape or liquid sealant in a hurry – resulting in too much being placed onto the thread. Not only are you increasing the likelihood for leaks, but applying excess thread sealant or tape is unnecessary and wasteful.

Thread seal tape should be wrapped around the thread in the correct direction with a minimum of 8 rotations with pink PTFE tape.

A thread sealant with a slim nozzle such as Loxeal Anaerobic Thread Sealants makes it easier to apply the right amount. With Loxeal, a simple continuous bead around one thread is all you need for a secure seal. For loose or damaged threads and threads larger than 1” in diameter, apply additional sealant to ensure a complete seal. Once applied, connect the pipes together and tighten.

Tip 4#: Wait for the thread sealant to fully cure

When using anaerobic thread sealants such as Loxeal 58-11, you’ll need to wait for the thread sealant to fully cure before pressurising the system. Unlike thread-sealing compounds and tape, anaerobic thread sealants cure when oxygen is expelled and form a solid long-lasting seal. Failing to allow adequate curing time can lead to premature failures and leaks.

Did you know? The time it takes a sealant to cure depends on the material and size of the pipe as well as the ambient temperature – so the cure time is different for each application. We recommend referring to the manufacturer’s Technical Data Sheet to get an estimate on how long the sealant will take to cure. Sealing M10x20 zinc pipes (quality 8.8) at 25°C will require 1-3 hrs for a functional cure time with Loxeal 58-11.