Steel pipe fittings come in various types and designs to accommodate different applications in plumbing, piping, and industrial settings. The most common types of steel pipe fittings include:
1. Elbow
- Function: Changes the direction of flow in the piping system.
- Types:
- 90-degree elbow: Changes the direction by 90 degrees.
- 45-degree elbow: Changes the direction by 45 degrees.
- 180-degree elbow: Used for U-shaped piping.
2. Tee
- Function: Divides or combines fluid flow.
- Types:
- Equal Tee: All three ends have the same diameter.
- Reducing Tee: One end has a smaller diameter to handle reduced flow.
3. Coupling
- Function: Connects two pipes of the same or different sizes.
- Types:
- Full Coupling: Used for connecting small bore pipes.
- Half Coupling: Connects a pipe to a socket or fitting.
4. Reducer
- Function: Reduces the pipe diameter.
- Types:
- Concentric Reducer: Reduces the pipe diameter evenly along the centerline.
- Eccentric Reducer: Reduces the diameter but with an offset, preventing air accumulation.
5. Cap
- Function: Closes or seals the end of a pipe.
- Types: Welded or threaded.
6. Flange
- Function: Connects pipes, valves, and other equipment.
- Types:
- Weld Neck Flange: Suitable for high-pressure systems.
- Slip-On Flange: Slips over the pipe and is then welded.
- Blind Flange: Used to close a piping system.
- Socket Weld Flange: For small-bore piping systems.
- Threaded Flange: Screwed onto a pipe with a male thread.
7. Cross
- Function: Divides fluid flow into four directions.
- Types:
- Equal Cross: All four outlets are of the same diameter.
- Reducing Cross: One or more outlets have smaller diameters.
8. Stub End
- Function: Used with lap joint flanges in low-pressure systems.
- Types: Short or long pattern stub ends.
9. Union
- Function: Joins two pipes and allows them to be easily disassembled.
- Types: Threaded or socket weld.
10. Nipple
- Function: A short piece of pipe used to connect two fittings.
- Types: Welded or threaded.
11. Bend
- Function: A long-radius bend that changes the direction of the pipe.
- Types: Custom bends in various angles (e.g., 180, 90, or 45 degrees).
12. Adapter
- Function: Converts pipe ends of different types or sizes.
- Types: Threaded, welded, or flanged.
These fittings are typically made from various materials, including carbon steel, stainless steel, and alloy steel, depending on the application and environmental conditions.
