Finding And Using Pipe Fittings
Posted on: 9 February 2019
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Any plumbing project will require that you're using the materials which are most suitable and appropriate. Pipes, fittings and other equipment should be on hand so that a plumbing job doesn't take longer than necessary. Pipe fittings can be tricky to get and use because making the wrong choice can result in leaks and similar plumbing issues. Use these pipe fitting suggestions.
Check Sizes
Of course, ensuring a fitting will fit a pipe is important. First, you must know pipe size. If you've recently purchased the pipes, that shouldn't be a problem. However, if you're working on very old pipes, you'll need a string to measure it. Wrapping the string around the ending of the pipe and then matching that string up with a tape measure will give you an approximate size to work with. You can measure pipe openings directly with a tape measure. The more precise you can be, the easier you can find the appropriate fittings for your work.
Be Aware of Issues with Materials
Pipes can be made of many different materials. The primary materials used are copper, PVC and steel. While PVC can usually be attached to fittings of any material, you do have to take more care with metal fittings and pipes. Steel fittings ought not to be mixed with copper fittings, for instance; if you join two structurally different metals like steel and copper, corrosion happens much faster. Therefore, you must be aware of those issues and do your best to use fittings in the same metal as the pipe you'll be attaching it to. You might be able to locate and then use di-electric unions which are manufactured for such issues and allow you to join different metals.
Check Pressure Ratings
Whatever fittings you ultimately choose, you need to ensure that they'll handle the pressure of the water or other fluids which will be moving through them. Manufacturer information is readily available so you don't have to guess about whether a particular fitting can handle fluid flow
Remember Tubing
For rigid tubing that hooks up to different pipes, perhaps when you're working on washing machines or dishwashers, remember to use compression fittings. If the tubing is more flexible, barbed fittings will generally be better.
The fittings you ultimately select must support pipes and tubes without creating even more plumbing trouble. Be careful and consult industrial experts about what fittings are best for the different projects you do.