Introduction to Brass Fitting Types
Brass pipe fittings come in many shapes and designs. Each type serves a specific function in a piping system. Understanding these types helps in proper selection. Common categories include directional, connecting, and adapting fittings. This guide covers the most frequently used types.
Elbows for Changing Direction
Elbows are among the most common brass pipe fittings. They change the direction of flow in a pipeline. Standard angles are 45 degrees and 90 degrees. A 90-degree elbow makes a sharp turn. A 45-degree elbow creates a gentler bend. Street elbows have a male thread on one end.
Tees for Branching Lines
Tee fittings create branch lines from a main pipe. The basic tee has one inlet and two outlets. All three openings are in a T-shape. A straight tee has the same size on all ends. A reducing tee has a smaller branch outlet. These are used for supply lines to fixtures.
Couplings for Straight Connections
Couplings join two pipes in a straight line. A standard coupling has female threads on both ends. A repair coupling is longer and has no center stop. This allows joining pipes without exact alignment. A reducing coupling connects pipes of different sizes. Half-couplings are used for threaded outlets.
Caps and Plugs for Sealing
Caps fit over the outside of a pipe end. They seal the pipe completely. Plugs fit inside a threaded fitting. Both are used to close off lines permanently. Brass pipe fittings of this type are common for test ports. They also seal unused outlets on manifolds.
Adapters for Transitioning
Adapters change from one connection type to another. A male adapter has external threads. A female adapter has internal threads. An adapter can change from NPT to BSP threads. It can also transition from pipe to tubing. These are essential for connecting different systems.
Unions for Easy Disassembly
Unions allow pipes to be disconnected without cutting. They consist of three parts. A female end, a male end, and a threaded nut. The nut compresses the two halves together. Brass pipe fittings of this type are used near equipment. They simplify maintenance and replacement.
Nipples for Extending Length
Nipples are short pieces of threaded pipe. They come in various lengths from close to 12 inches. A close nipple has threads along its entire length. A shoulder nipple has an unthreaded center section. Hex nipples have a hex-shaped center for wrenching. They extend pipe runs or connect fittings.
Bushings for Size Reduction
Bushings reduce the size of a fitting opening. They have a male thread on the outside. They have a female thread on the inside. The outside thread is larger than the inside thread. Brass pipe fittings of this type are compact. They are used where a reducer would be too long.
Flanges for Heavy-Duty Connections
Flanges are flat, ring-shaped fittings. They bolt together with gaskets between them. Brass pipe fittings of this type are for larger pipes. They are common in industrial applications. Flanges allow easy disassembly of large pipes. They are also used to connect to equipment.
Valve Fittings for Flow Control
Some brass pipe fittings incorporate valves. A ball valve has a lever for quarter-turn operation. A gate valve uses a rising stem for on/off control. A check valve allows flow in one direction only. These combine connection and control functions. They save space and reduce leak points.
Compression Fittings for Soft Tubing
Compression fittings work with copper or plastic tubing. The fitting consists of a nut, a ferrule, and a body. Tightening the nut compresses the ferrule. This creates a seal around the tubing. Brass pipe fittings of this type need no soldering. They are common for water supply lines.
Flare Fittings for High Pressure
Flare fittings are used for gas and high-pressure lines. The tubing end is expanded into a cone shape. This cone seals against a matching brass seat. Brass pipe fittings of this type are very reliable. They handle vibration and temperature changes well. They are standard for gas appliances.
Brass pipe fittings are available in a wide range of types. From simple elbows to complex unions, each has a purpose. Proper selection ensures a reliable, leak-free system. Always choose the correct type for your application. Match materials and pressure ratings carefully. With the right fittings, your piping system will perform for decades.
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