FAQ's ( Frequently Asked Questions )
Let us get to know more about pipe fittings and flanges by answering some simple questions:
Q.1 What exactly do you mean by pipe
fittings?
A. Pipe fittings are used to connect pipes. There are different
varieties of pipe fittings made of various materials and available in
various shapes and sizes. Pipe adapters, couplings, elbows, tees,
sleeves, flanges, bulkhead fittings, reducers, valves etc. are all
different types of pipe fittings.
Q.2 How are pipe fittings identified?
A. Pipe fittings are identified by their material of construction,
inner and outer diameter of the pipe, and the type of fitting whether
threaded or slip, male or female.
Q.3 What is an elbow?
A. The elbow is a short length of pipe having a 90-degree bend. Elbow
allows pipes to be connected securely at both ends, providing a clean
turn.
Q.4 What is the outside diameter (OD) of a 1"
fitting?
A. The outside diameter (OD) of a fitting will vary from manufacturer
to manufacturer and it represents the minimum wall thickness
requirements for a given size.
Q.5 Are pipe fittings having a visible line
in them, are cracked?
A. No. The noticeable line is not a crack. This you can test by trying
to open the crack. If you are unable to open it up by pulling on the
part then that is knit-line which is an intrinsic part of the
injection-molding process. A knit-line will not impact the integrity of
the pipe fitting.
Q.6 How are pipe fittings organized by male
and female connectors?
A. There are four ways to consider for this:
- Male threaded: Threads on the outside. They are made to
screw into the inside of a larger diameter pipe end with internal
threading.
- Female threaded: Threads are on the inside. They are made
to receive male threaded pipe fittings.
- Male slip fit: There are no threads. They are made to
slip into a slightly larger female sleeve.
- Female slip fit: There are no threads. They are made to
receive a narrower male slip fit.
Q.7 What should I consider for buying
pipe fittings?
A. Material, Size, Temperature and Pressure Ratings, Durability,
Standards etc.
Q.8 Is it acceptable to change the design of
a plastic fitting?
A. No. Fittings are manufactured as per stringent ASTM dimensional
requirements.
Q.9 What are threaded fittings?
A. Most commonly used in steel fittings. Uses pipe dope or PTFE tape on
the threads which when joined will prevent leaks and corrosion. The
fitting is female if the threads are on the interior. The fitting is
male, if the threads are on the exterior.
Q.10 What is a flange?
A. A flange is usually in the shape of a plate or ring which forms a
rim at the end of a pipe when fastened to the pipe.
Q.11 What is a standard used in pipe
fittings?
A. Standards are certain authentication given in reference to
manufacture and installation of the product . Some common standards are
BSP, NPT, ANSI, ASME etc.
The points mentioned below will be a guide for the buyers:
