Black iron pipe is most commonly used for natural gas lines, although it can be used for other purposes as well. When used for furniture, black iron pipe needs to be sealed in order to prevent leaks. There are a few different ways to seal black iron pipe, depending on the type of sealant you use.
One way to seal black iron pipe is with a rubber gasket and bolts. This method is relatively simple and only requires a few materials. First, clean the area around the leak with a wire brush or sandpaper. Next, apply a generous amount of plumber’s putty or silicone caulk to the leaking joint. Place a rubber gasket over the putty or caulk, then thread the bolts through the gasket and hand-tighten them. Check that the gasket is seated properly and there are no gaps between it and the pipe. Finally, use a wrench to tighten the bolts until they’re snug but not too tight – overtightening can damage the gasket.
If you need a more permanent solution, you can weld the leaking joint shut using oxy-acetylene welding equipment. This method requires more skill than using a rubber gasket, but it will create a stronger seal that won’t leak even under high pressure. First, clean both sides of the joint with a wire brush or grinding wheel attachment on your drill – this will help ensure good weld penetration. Next, set up your welding equipment according to manufacturer’s instructions and light your torch. When welding black iron pipe, it’s important to use an appropriate rod – one that’s rated for cast iron or mild steel would work well here. Slowly move the torch along the length of the joint while adding filler rod as needed – don’t stop moving until you reach the end of the joint or you risk creating cold laps in your weld bead. Allow time for cooling before testing your repair by turning on water pressure slowly and checking for leaks..