Pipe fittings are used to create pipelines and attach pipe sections to other components, such as valves and pumps. Commonly, these are made with metal and plastic. However, demanding industries require more stable, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant materials like aluminum.
Why Aluminum?
Lightweight pipe, aluminum fitting components are safer, more durable, do well under extreme temperatures, and are easy to work with. If you’re wondering about the best pipe for compressed air applications, aluminum is the answer.
Unfortunately, numerous pipe fitting types are available in the market today. It makes choosing difficult, but once you’re equipped with the correct information, you can make the best pipe fitting choices before you begin your future projects.
Common Types of Aluminum Pipe Fittings
Pipe fittings come in different types, depending on their purpose, materials, and process applications. For aluminum, below are the best pipe fitting selections available:
- Butt weld pipe fittings: As the name suggests, butt weld pipe fittings connect two pipes by welding them at the ends. It secures the pipes and provides a leak proof connection, which is essential in high-pressure and temperature environments. Examples are oil and gas and chemical processing industries.
- Flanged pipe fittings: Flange pipe fittings are screwed together instead of welded. Flanged joints are created once a flanged pipe fitting is screwed with a flange and a gasket in between as a secure seal.
- Threaded pipe fittings: Threaded pipe fittings consist of a threaded end and a corresponding male or female end. Its threading can be found on one or both ends, which can be screwed on various attachment components or to another pipe fitting. Due to its versatility, it can be used in numerous settings. Therefore, reducing the number of fittings you need to use.
- Nipples: Nipples are a kind of fitting that’s primarily used in plumbing and piping applications. It usually comes with a male pipe thread, which creates a watertight seal once piping is attached to a threaded fitting or other components.
- Socket weld couplings: These attachment details have recessed sockets where pipes are inserted before being welded into place. Like butt weld pipe fittings, these are ideal for high-pressure pipeline configurations, especially if they must be leakproof and sealed during liquid or gas transportation.
When to use Threaded or Flanged Pipe Fittings?
Threaded and flange pipe fittings have many similarities, but knowing when to use them makes a massive difference to the success of your projects. Below are some factors to consider:
- Threaded pipe fittings are best used in low to medium-pressure systems
- Flanged pipe fittings are suitable for high-pressure applications or extensive pipeline connections.
- Threaded connections are used for pipes less than 50mm in size.
- Flanges are utilized for larger pipes that require a higher degree of seal security.
Choosing the Right Aluminum Pipe Fitting
Now that you know the common aluminum pipe fittings, it’s time to choose the right one. When selecting a lightweight pipe, aluminum fitting, remember its main application and the environment it will be exposed to. Of course, choose a reliable manufacturer to deliver quality piping fittings that guarantee unrivaled results, such as Latrobe Foundry.
If you’re interested in our products and need a high-quality pipe fitting for your next project, don’t hesitate to contact us today. Request a quote, and we’ll find a solution tailored to your needs.
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