1. Introduction and Product Overview
The RIDGID 23332 (Model 345) Flaring Tool is a precision-designed instrument for creating accurate 45-degree flares in soft copper, brass, aluminum, and mild steel tubing. This tool is essential for plumbing, HVAC, automotive, and other applications requiring reliable flared connections. It features a hardened, smooth cone that ensures fast and consistent 45-degree flares, and a single clamp screw mechanism for easy and secure clamping and removal of tubing.
Figure 1: RIDGID 23332 345 Flaring Tool
2. Safety Information
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead, which is known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, when operating this tool.
- Ensure your work area is clean, well-lit, and free from obstructions.
- Keep hands and clothing clear of moving parts during operation.
- Do not modify the tool or use it for purposes other than its intended use.
- Store the tool in a dry, secure location out of reach of children.
3. Components and Parts
The RIDGID 345 Flaring Tool consists of the following primary components:
- Flaring Cone: The hardened, smooth conical component that forms the flare.
- Clamping Bar (Die Block): Features various sized holes to securely hold different diameters of tubing.
- Feed Screw: The threaded rod that advances the flaring cone.
- Handle: Used to turn the feed screw and apply pressure.
- Wing Nut: Used to tighten the clamping bar onto the tubing.
Figure 2: Tool components as shown on packaging
Figure 3: Disassembled view of the flaring tool parts
4. Setup
- Prepare Tubing: Ensure the end of the tubing is cut squarely and free from burrs. Use a reaming tool to deburr both the inside and outside edges of the tubing. A clean, smooth edge is crucial for a perfect flare.
- Select Die Hole: Open the clamping bar and select the correct size hole that matches the outer diameter of your tubing.
- Insert Tubing: Insert the prepared tubing into the selected hole of the clamping bar. The tubing should extend slightly above the surface of the clamping bar. The exact height can vary slightly depending on the desired flare thickness, but generally, it should be just enough to allow the cone to form a full flare without over-flaring.
- Clamp Tubing: Close the clamping bar and securely tighten the wing nut. The tubing must be held firmly to prevent slippage during the flaring process.
Figure 4: Tubing properly inserted and clamped in the flaring tool
5. Operating Instructions
Follow these steps to create a 45-degree flare:
- Position Flaring Cone: Place the flaring cone assembly over the clamped tubing, ensuring the cone is centered directly above the tubing opening.
- Apply Pressure: Begin turning the feed screw handle clockwise. This will advance the flaring cone into the tubing, gradually forming the 45-degree flare.
- Form the Flare: Continue turning the handle until the flaring cone bottoms out against the clamping bar. This indicates that a full and proper flare has been formed. Do not overtighten, as this can damage the flare or the tool.
- Release and Inspect: Unscrew the feed screw by turning the handle counter-clockwise. Once the cone is retracted, loosen the wing nut and carefully remove the flared tubing. Inspect the flare for uniformity, smoothness, and absence of cracks or imperfections.
Figure 5: Flaring cone advancing into tubing
Figure 6: Detailed view of the flaring process
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the tool, especially the flaring cone and clamping bar, to remove any metal shavings or debris.
- Lubrication: Periodically apply a light machine oil to the threads of the feed screw. This will ensure smooth operation and extend the life of the tool.
- Storage: Store the flaring tool in a clean, dry environment to prevent rust and corrosion.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven Flare | Tubing not cut squarely or deburred; improper tubing extension; loose clamping. | Ensure tubing is cut squarely and deburred. Adjust tubing extension. Tighten wing nut securely. |
| Cracked Flare | Tubing material too hard or cold; excessive force applied; improper deburring. | Ensure tubing is suitable for flaring. Apply steady, even pressure. Verify proper deburring. |
| Tubing Slips During Flaring | Wing nut not tightened sufficiently; oil or grease on clamping bar. | Tighten wing nut firmly. Clean clamping bar thoroughly to remove any lubricants. |
| Difficulty Turning Feed Screw | Lack of lubrication on threads; damaged threads. | Apply light machine oil to feed screw threads. If threads are damaged, tool may require service or replacement. |
8. Specifications
- Model Number: 23332 (345)
- Color: Gray
- Material: Alloy Steel
- Item Length: 0.63 Inches
- Item Weight: 1.2 Kilograms (approx. 2.64 pounds)
- Item Package Quantity: 1
- Head Style: Flare Nut
- Finish Type: Brushed
- Operation Mode: Mechanical
- Size: Small
- UPC: 094700703392, 095691233325, 753956781386, 784497112483, 640026861898
9. Warranty and Support
RIDGID stands behind the quality of its products. This RIDGID Flaring Tool is covered by a lifetime warranty against defects in material or workmanship for the life of the tool.
For warranty claims, technical support, or additional product information, please visit the official RIDGID website or contact their customer service. You can also visit the RIDGID Store on Amazon.
Figure 7: RIDGID Full Lifetime Warranty Badge
