In industrial, residential, and commercial settings, pipes are a critical component. From water supply systems for factories and homes to transportation of hazardous chemicals, it’s evident that pipes play an essential role in many aspects of our lives. One of these is called a pipe nipple fitting – a particular type of fitting used in specific scenarios.
If you want to know what a pipe nipple is and what makes it different from traditional piping, let’s dive into the details of pipe nipple fitting. Learn when these are used, how to measure them correctly, and what steps to take during installation.
What is a Pipe Nipple?
Pipe nipples are fittings employed in pipelines or piping systems in industrial, commercial, and residential processes. It’s a short pipe with male or external threads connecting two pipes or other fittings on one or both ends.
Benefits of threaded pipe nipples:
- High strength
- Stable performance
- Quick connection speed
- Easier to manage compared to other fittings
The threads on threaded pipe nipples can be on one or both sides. Depending on the purpose of the fitting, different thread styles are used. Thread styles, such as BSP, BSPT, NPT, NPSM, and Metric, can also differ on both ends.
What are the Uses of a Pipe Nipple?
Aluminum pipe nipple fittings are commonly used in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, plumbing applications, and the oil and gas industry. They are known for their versatile nature and ability to connect two pipes, fittings, or equipment of different sizes or materials.
Here are some specific instances when pipe nipples are used:
- Adapting pipe sizes
- Extending existing piping systems
- Repairing damaged sections of a pipeline
- Creating offsets or alignment changes
- Converting pipe threads from male to female or vice versa
- Connecting pipes at different angles
Apart from the harsh settings in industrial environments, threaded pipe nipples are used for plumbing in homes or commercial structures. Due to its substantial use, it has become a vital component in piping applications.
How to Properly Measure a Pipe Nipple
Before purchasing an aluminum pipe nipple, there are several factors to consider to ensure you buy the correct size. It will prevent premature failure in your pipelines or piping systems, preventing huge and unnecessary repair or replacement costs.
These factors are:
- Pipe nipple length
- Inner and outer diameter
- Nipple material
- End Construction
The pipe nipple’s length is the overall pipe length from one nipple to the other – regardless of whether the fitting is plain, threaded on both ends, or only has one threaded end. You can measure the length using a tape measure. If the fitting is installed in a pipe, you can determine the length by subtracting the thread engagement of both ends of the nipple.
How to Install a Pipe Nipple
Installing a nipple pipe fitting is essential for a successful piping system. If you plan on doing a DIY at home, here are the basic steps to follow:
- Clean the threads of pipe nipples and pipes using a wire brush.
- Apply thread sealant or tape on the nipple’s male threads.
- Insert one nipple end into one of the pipes, then tighten it with a wrench.
- Repeat step 3 for the other end of the nipple.
If you don’t have any experience in pipe installations, it’s best to call on experts to prevent damage to your pipings.
Understand What a Pipe Nipple is For Proper Piping Installation
Pipe nipple fittings play a critical role in numerous piping systems. Installation and usage depend on the pipe nipple’s length, diameter, and material. As an essential component in many industries, it’s important to understand the uses and proper installation techniques of threaded pipe nipples for safe and efficient piping systems.
At Latrobe Foundry, we deliver superior quality threaded pipe nipples in various sizes to cater to multiple pipe fittings and plumbing needs. Contact us today for more information on our industrial piping products, or request a quote so we can start your project immediately!
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