Tools

To connect PE pipes you usually only need a few basic tools. The most important is a good pipe cutter that makes a straight and clean cut, since an uneven cut can cause leaks. You also need a deburring tool or a knife to remove burrs from the inside of the pipe after cutting so that the sealing ring in the fitting is not damaged when the pipe is inserted. For larger dimensions it can be useful to have an expanding tool to slightly widen the pipe end if the type of fitting requires it.

For compression fittings, two spanners or adjustable wrenches are normally enough to tighten the nuts. They should not be over-tightened, but tightened enough for the sealing ring to grip and seal properly. For electrofusion fittings you need an electrofusion welding unit and clamps that hold the joint perfectly still during welding. For press fittings you need a press tool with the correct jaws for the specific fitting type.

In summary: for normal compression fittings you need a pipe cutter, a deburring tool and two wrenches. For electrofusion and press fittings you need the corresponding specialised tools.