Like you, everybody hates encountering leaks in plumbing systems. To deal with them, you need to choose the correct compression fittings. Making the right choice will prevent leaks and prolong your system’s life.
But what exactly are compression fittings?
Compression fittings are joints between pipes or fixtures that provide reliable seals by compressing a ring around them with nuts.
This guide discusses compression fittings in detail and provides insightful tips on selecting the right fittings for your plumbing project.
Understanding Compression Fittings
The compression fitting’s body consists of three main parts: the compression nut, the ferrule (or compression ring), and the body itself. These joints tighten onto pipes by squashing rings against them, creating watertight seals and preventing leaks.
Types of Compression Fittings
1. Brass Compression Fittings: These types are corrosion-resistant and strong, hence widely preferred when seeking something durable. They can work with hot and cold systems and are compatible with copper, plastic, or brass pipes.
2. Plastic Compression Fittings: These are light in weight, making them easy to handle during installation, especially when it comes to DIY tasks at home, such as fixing taps. They are compatible with plastic pipes such as PVC and CPVC.
3. Stainless Steel Compression Fittings:Stainless steel fittings boast high strength and durability, which is why they are perfect for high-pressure applications. They are commonly used in industrial settings and for gas line installations.
Factors to Consider While Choosing Compression Fittings
1. Pipe Material: What is your pipe material? Copper, plastic, or stainless steel: The type of fitting you choose should be compatible with your pipe material so it does not rust or leak with time.
2. Application: Choose compression fittings carefully, considering their application and where you intend to use them. Whether the application is potable water systems or gas lines, you must ensure your compression fittings meet that application’s specific requirements and safety standards.
3. Pressure Rating: For long-term durability under high-pressure conditions, it is important to choose compression fittings with pressure ratings higher than those recommended for use in your plumbing system.
4. Approved Standards Compliance Certificates:Select only certified fittings whose quality has been verified through meeting relevant benchmarks set forth within recognized organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the British Standards Institution (BSI), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the American Society Testing Materials (ASTM), among others.
Installation Tips for Perfect Fitting
1. Prepare Thoroughly:Cleanly cut and square pipes ensure a good fit with compression fittings. This will help you avoid leaks, which can damage your system or lower its efficiency by allowing water or gas to escape.
2. Lubricate:Applying lubricant to the compression ring eases assembly by reducing friction that could cause damage to the rings during installation. It also ensures a strong and durable seal.
3. Hand Tighten First:Start by hand tightening the compression nut to avoid overtightening, which can damage fittings or distort seals. Then, use a wrench to secure the connection snugly without excessive force.
4. Check for Leaks:After fixing everything tightly together, test the system by running water through all joints. If there are any leakages, fix them immediately before they cause other problems later on.
Final Thoughts
The success of your plumbing work largely depends on the choice of compression fittings you make. Always select those that match the pipe material, size, application, and pressure rating, as well as having the necessary certifications for safety while ensuring no leakage occurs in future installations. To achieve this, go for reputable brands like Obaid Masood Building Materials Trading L.L.C, from which you can get supplies of only high-quality products that meet your satisfaction levels.
Consider Obaid Masood for reliable compression fitting options for different types of plumbing projects. Contact us today for all your compression fitting requirements.