Don't know if this is of any use to you m8
I notice that when I use the pre-formed flare on purchased tubing, I generally have a leak-free fitting, whereas when I make a
double flare on that same tubing, I sometimes have a leak. I'm not sure why my flares don't seal as well as the "store bought" flares.
Another issue is
flare angle. If you're trying to mate hardline to a 37 degree fitting, you need to have the 37 degree flaring tool, not the MUCH more common 45 degree unit.
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Dean
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Join Date: Aug 1998
Location: near Kansas City
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More good hints !
I never even thought about the 37 degree deal but good point.
BTW, soft
copper flare gaskets are available at refrigeration supply houses if you have a real problem.
I've been flaring coppper tubing for so many years (quite a few that have had to hold three or four hundred PSI of refrigerant pressure) that I've just about become an expert but I sure can't seem to get the hang of making a decent
double flare on steel tubing.
(maybe I need a better double flaring tool)
Another tip is to debur the inside of the
copper tubing, and use oil when making a flare then don't tighten the tool down quite all the way, let the flare nut finish the job.