In a general sense, fittings are all kinds of nodes used to connect different parts of pipelines. These include various in shape and configuration: corners (bends), tees, couplings, manifolds, crosses, adapters, plugs. Pipe fittings are classified according to the way they are connected. So, they can be threaded, capillary (for capillary soldering), compression, self-locking, adhesive.
Threaded fittings are the most common type of such products. They just screw onto the pipe. This pipe connection system is the oldest. Most often, threaded fittings are made from cast iron and are used to connect steel pipes. Their disadvantage is the causticity and brittleness characteristic of cast iron.
Compression joints made of steel, plastic, brass, copper, polypropylene are used to connect metal-plastic pipes. Metal-plastic fittings are easy to use because they have a special ferrule. It is tightened with a wrench after being put on the pipe.
Fittings are used to connect copper pipes,designed for capillary soldering. The principle of their application is quite simple: they put the required assembly on the pipe and begin to heat it with a special heating pad until the solder from the copper or tin wire under the internal thread melts. After that, it fills all the free space between the fitting and the pipe.
Recently launched the production of self-locking joints used for multilayer pipes. They install very quickly. Such fittings are simply put on a pre-cut and calibrated pipe until it stops. They can be used multiple times. There is also such a variety of these nodes as adhesive fittings. They are made from polyvinyl chloride. Their connection with pipes is carried out using special glue.
Special press fittings are used to connect metal-polymer pipes. Most often they are made of brass. Their crimp sleeve is made of steel. To install such a fitting, you need a special press.
Fittings got their unusual name from the word "FITTING", which in English means "fitting", "installation", "installation". The scope of their application is very wide. Fittings are nodes (connections), without which the installation of gas, water, heat pipelines and other systems is impossible. Based on where they are installed, they are called connecting and intermediate. The former are used to connect various devices to the central pipeline. Intermediate fittings areknots which, as a rule, are established in places of connection of pipes. In cases of changing the direction of pipes, bends are used. Adapters and couplings are installed only on straight sections. Crosses are required when installing two-way branches from the pipeline, and tees are needed for one-way.
All fittings have different properties, which depend on the type of material from which they are made. So, brass nodes have high impact resistance, durability and heat resistance. They are used in technological pipelines, water and heat pipelines. To give them increased resistance to corrosion, they are coated with a layer of nickel or chromium.
