Pipe fittings are often overlooked when it comes to the crucial pieces that work together to create a successful plumbing system. Pipe fittings work to connect pipes to form a good setup and ensure they are sealed together. Without the different types of pipe fittings on offer, pipes wouldn’t be able to seal off and liquids would leak everywhere. With so many options on offer when it comes to commercial plumbing supplies, it’s important to understand what type of pipe fitting you need for any system in your home or commercial property. Keep reading as we discover the most common types of pipe fittings which our team at Inspired Plumb can support you with installing.
What is a Pipe Fitting?
Before we look at the various types of pipe fittings on offer, it’s important to understand exactly what purpose pipe fittings fulfil. Pipe fittings are used to join together plumbing components and come in a range of shapes and sizes. They can help to change or extend the flow within a plumbing system and the different material and size options on offer means they are compatible with various types of pipe. To determine what type of pipe fitting you need, you’ll need to review the pipe material and size, the liquids within the system and the pressure both inside and outside the system.
Pipe Fitting by Types
There are a huge number of different pipe fittings to choose from, so it’s important to work with a professional to find the right type if you are unsure of which one to choose. These are a few of the most commonly used options which will help to support your plumbing system.
Tee Pipe Fittings
Tee pipe fittings are used to connect and divert flow through two to three pipes. They have a single inlet and two outputs, one of which is 90 degrees and the other 180 degrees. The name for this type of fixture comes from the fact that the fitting looks like a T shape. Tee pipe fittings are used in the majority of plumbing systems and can help to merge and divert flow within the system.
Couplings
A coupling is usually used for connecting two pipes together. They offer a permanent connection between pipes of the same or different size or standard.
Adapters
If you need to connect pipes of different sizes or standards of connection, then an adapter fitting can help you with this task. Reduced couplings will be used to reduce the flow area between two pipes without impacting or changing the diameter.
Reducers
When looking at the uses of pipe fittings for connecting two different pipe sizes, reducers gradually help to change the diameter from one pipe to the next one. They work to smoothly reduce the flow rate between the larger and smaller pipe.
Cross Fittings
You will no doubt have seen cross fittings used in bathroom plumbing supplies. They have four openings and so take the shape of a cross, with one inlet and three outlets or three inlets and one outlet depending on the design. You’ll find these used within draining systems, sprinkler or irrigation systems, and hot and cold-water systems.
Valves
Valves are used to switch between turning on and turning off the flow of water, as well as to alter the flow rate of gas or liquid in the system. You’ll find a variety of different valve designs for plumbing supplies and they can be used for a variety of applications. Each valve will be classified within a class to help you decide if it’s the right one for your plumbing needs.
Caps
A cap can be installed on the outer surface of a pipe to prevent the flow of gas or liquid. They can be used on either a temporary or permanent basis and will be inserted to the end of the pipe when a plumbing system is undergoing a change or for when the flow is no longer required.
Choosing the Right Type of Pipe Fittings
If you don’t know where to start when it comes to pipe fittings, the best thing to do is to leave this task to a professional. Our team will be here to support you in finding the right type of pipe fittings for any type of application. There are pipe fittings on offer for every type of task, but you’ll need to make sure you choose one with the right shape and size to fit your needs.
Are you looking to invest in new pipe fittings? If you need support with any plumbing issues or maintenance, our team will be here to help. Contact us today to learn more about the plumbing services we offer or to discuss any questions you have about the types of pipe fittings you should use.
