Tube flaring is a fundamental and common process in HVAC installation and repair, essential for creating secure, leak-proof connections in refrigerant lines. Whether you’re working on residential or commercial systems, mastering this art ensures system integrity and long-term reliability.
NAVAC has worked closely with HVAC professionals to design flaring tools that simplify the flaring process while improving accuracy and efficiency. From choosing the right tools to understanding best practices, NAVAC’s solutions are built to support technicians in the field. Backed by real field experience and years of innovation, these are NAVAC’s proven best practices for achieving clean, consistent flares every time.
Choose the Right Tube Flaring Tools
Not all flaring tools are created equal. When selecting a tool, prioritize precision, ease of use, and durability. Features such as cordless operation, LED indicators confirming flare completion, and compatibility with multiple tubing sizes can greatly improve efficiency on the job site.
For professionals who demand both speed and consistency, NAVAC’s NEF6LM BreakFree® Power Flaring Tool offers a lightweight, cordless solution designed for speed and precision. Weighing under 3 pounds, it delivers over 100 flares per charge and features one-button, one-hand operation making it ideal for tight spaces and fast-paced jobs.
With one-button, one-hand operation, built-in LED indicators, and designed for harsh environments, the NEF6LM helps eliminate guesswork while streamlining your workflow. Its included flare dies, charger, and premium gauge provide everything needed to produce clean, repeatable flares with professional-grade accuracy.
Prep Your Tubing Correctly
Proper preparation of the tubing is critical to producing a quality flare. Always start with a clean, straight cut using a sharp tubing cutter. Inspect the end for burrs or debris, and deburr the interior edge if necessary to allow the tubing to form evenly under pressure. Skipping this step can lead to uneven flares, weakened joints, and eventual system leaks. High-quality flaring tools rely on properly prepped tubing to deliver the results they’re designed for.
NAVAC’s tube cutters are engineered for smooth, distortion-free cuts with sharp blades, ball bearings for easy rotation, and a rugged aluminum alloy body ensuring every cut sets the stage for flawless, consistent flares.
Maintain Your Flaring Tools for Consistency
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your flaring tools functioning accurately and reliably over the long haul. After every job, clean your tools thoroughly to remove metal shavings, dust, and other debris that can affect performance.
Inspect critical components like clamping surfaces, flaring cones, and cutting blades for signs of damage or wear. Replacing worn parts promptly helps maintain flare precision and prevents costly rework. For cordless or battery-powered models, keep batteries fully charged and store them properly to preserve battery life. Additionally, periodically verify tool calibration if applicable, so every flare meets exact specifications.
Final Checks and Testing After Every Flare
Once the flare is formed, a thorough inspection is critical to ensure reliability and prevent costly leaks down the line. Start with a careful visual check: look for a smooth, symmetrical flare that evenly wraps around the tubing without any cracks, gaps, or deformations. Imperfections here are often the root cause of leaks or weak joints.
Next, perform a pressure test or use a sensitive leak detector to verify that the connection is airtight. Even a tiny leak can compromise system performance and lead to expensive repairs or refrigerant loss. Make it a standard practice to test each flare connection before proceeding with installation or system charging.
By consistently applying these final checks, you safeguard your work quality and uphold system integrity, saving time and money for both you and your clients.
Master the Art of Tube Flaring with NAVAC
Mastering tube flaring with NAVAC’s precision-engineered tools and proven best practices helps HVAC professionals deliver reliable, leak-proof connections that last. By investing in quality equipment and honing your technique, you reduce rework, improve system performance, and boost your professional reputation.
Ready to enhance your tube flaring skills and experience the NAVAC difference? Explore our full range of innovative tube flaring tools and elevate every job with confidence.
