What Are Pipe Fittings?
Pipe fittings are used in plumbing systems to connect pipes that are of the same size or different sizes; they control the flow of liquid in the pipes. There are various types of pipe fittings used in plumbing systems that serve their purpose. In general, brass or copper fittings are available and can be used with most pipe materials, liquid flowing nature, pressure, and temperature.
The purpose of pipe fittings in a plumbing system is to connect one pipe to another of the same or different size to increase the length of the pipe or change the direction of the flow.
The types of pipe fittings and purposes are as follows:
Elbows:
In general, an elbow is a device used to change the direction of liquid flow between two pipes. If the two pipes have a different diameter then the elbow is called a reducer. Elbows are available in two different angles, the 90 degree and the 45 degree angles. Pipes are usually threaded with the elbows or they are welded together if they are not threaded.
Tee :
As the name implies, this pipe has a shape similar to that of a capital “T”. Tee has an inlet and outlet. It comes in a variety of sizes and is supposed to be stronger than a cross fitting. Diverter tees are suitable for water-based heating systems. A perfect installation is required for the system to function. It has directional markings.
Cross-Type :
This fitting has four openings in all directions, and it can connect four pipes. It can have three outlets and one inlet, or one outlet and three inlets. Since it has four connection points for four pipes, it remains under more stress than other fittings since it meets four pipes at once. It is usually made of a more durable material than other fittings. In most cases, fire sprinkler systems utilize this type of system to control fires.
Reducer :
The main purpose of a reducer is to regulate the flow (slowdown in most cases) between two pipes of different diameters. There are two types of reducers
- Concentric reducer: The cone-shaped reducer is a type of reducer, and an issue in this type of reducer is the possibility of air accumulation, which in turn will increase pressure on the pipe as a result of the air accumulation.
- Eccentric reducer: This type of fitting has one side that is parallel to the other; since only one side is curved, the risk of air accumulation is eliminated in this type of fitting.
Couplings :
For pipes that have the same diameter or that have been damaged or split, couplings are ideal for preventing leaks. They are used to cover pipes that have been damaged or split, and are perfect for preventing leaks in pipes. In plumbing, there are two types of coupling – compression couplings and slip couplings. By using a gasket or rubber seal on both sides of a compression coupling, leakage between two pipes is prevented, but by using a slip coupling – which is often more straightforward to install – it connects two pipes together in a way that is often easier to install. In order to fix a damaged or long pipe, slip-couplings are the perfect solution.
Barb :
A Generally, barbs are used to attach hoses to pipes so that they can be connected.It is essential to have a male at one end and on the other end a barbed tube, which is a ridged and tapered cone.Plastic barbs are used when it needs to carry cold water and brass if they carry hot water.
