Backyard Aquaponics
A place to discuss aquaponics

I used spit to lube my uniseals...

Hey arbe, are they pressure or DWV? I know the uniseals are meant to take pressure - internal diameter the same, external different (though you probably already know that). Just wondering why it would start to leak.

No leaks from any of mine, Gemmell, although none are more than 14 months in use.

As a lubricant I find saliva works on smaller diameters, without the need for a beveled edge. Larger diameter pipes I bevel and use commercial PVC lubricant, thoroughly wiping it off once done since it is anti-bacterial (and we don't want that). A few of times I have had difficulty with 3" PVC or 90mm stormwater: my solution is to use a half-round rasp and slightly enlarge the hole. This makes all the difference and works well because a Uniseal is very accommodating, and forgiving of minor imperfections.

@gemmell - It wasn't easy drilling with a holesaw on the edge of 90mm pipe. The circle came out more like an oval and while the uniseal appeared to fit nicely, over 12 months gravity pulling down on the pipe leading off to the growbed took its toll. The 90mm pipe may have also changed a bit with sunlight hitting it etc. Eventually they began to slightly leak on the sides towards the top (at about 10 and 2). Rather than attempt to repair it I redesigned it.

These are the only uniseals I have had leaks from - all the others (SLO from fish tank, sump interconnects, standpipe in growbeds) have worked floorlessly. The redesigned one has so far as well.

@PJL - you have uniseals inserted in the side of 90mm pipe? (I'm going to have to re-read your thread and take a closer look at the pics).

Sorry, arbe and gemmell, I was talking about Uniseal use generally rather than specifically for into the side of a 90mm pipe. I am yet to experience that challenge but will keep you posted.

Wow this means my ibc system has been running for over two years now. Its about to have makeover this weekend