Plumbing Fittings Guide – Choosing the Right One For Your Needs
There are several types of plumbing fittings and their various uses. You must choose the correct one depending on your needs. Some fittings have more than one thread, while others are only threaded on one end. When you install these types of plumbing fittings, you must ensure that the pipes match. Besides, you should avoid buying wrong material as it can result in leaks and malfunctions. Adaptors are one such example, which has a female and male thread on the outside. When you put these fittings on copper pipes, you can use the female thread and leave the male end blank.
Tee type fittings connect two pipes in a pipeline. Their outlets are at 90 degrees to the main line connection. They are available in different sizes and materials, and are often referred to as “bull head” fittings. Depending on the material used, you can choose from brass, copper, CPVC, galvanized, or malleable materials. Tees can be threaded, slip-fitted, or compression-fitted.
Adapters are versatile and used to connect two different kinds of pipes. These pieces are threaded and can connect to various sizes. Some types have male and female threaded ends, while others are slip sockets. You must be sure to purchase the right type of fitting for your particular needs. It is also important to note that the size and type of fittings will determine the type of pressure and challenges that you will face when plumbing.
Tees can be made of many different materials. ABS plastic piping is often used for DWV pipes. ABS plastic pipes are also common. ABS plastic is a black plastic material that can be used for indoor plumbing and is inexpensive. However, PVC pipes are often unrated for indoor use. Some plumbing fittings are simple to install. Some of them require specialized tools and knowledge to install. This article will walk you through the process of choosing the right one for your needs.
Whether you’re using a large pipe or a small one, you’ll need to consider the size of the nipple. Generally, a half coupling is used for a large pipe and a small one. It can also be made of threads or a socket. The male thread ends are on one side of the fitting while the female end has a socket. Union fittings can also connect two pipes with different sizes, while reducing couplings are used for smaller pipes. The centerline of the pipe is maintained when using a reducing coupling. Similarly, a nipple can connect two pipes. Some people choose union fittings when replacing a pipe. Moreover, they are easy to install and can be easily removed.
Elbows are another essential part of plumbing. They change the direction of water flow. The most commonly used elbows are 90-degree elbows, but there are also those made of 45-degree angles and sweated ones. Elbows are important plumbing fittings and can also be made of brass, copper, stainless steel, or ABS. In general, elbows come with female threads on both sides. However, they may not be as convenient if they are not threaded.
