Several factors determine the right plumbing fittings for a home improvement project. Understanding pressure ratings is vital for homeowners and plumbers to ensure the performance and safety of a building’s plumbing system. By the end of this guide, you will better understand what pressure ratings for plumbing fittings mean.
How Pressure Ratings Apply to Fittings
Pressure ratings indicate the maximum pressure a plumbing fitting can safely withstand. These ratings prevent leaks or bursts in your plumbing system. For instance, when selecting brass plumbing parts, they should match your water system’s pressure requirements.
Ignoring these ratings can result in leaks, burst pipes, and potential flooding. By adhering to pressure ratings, you create a safe and efficient plumbing system while reducing the risk of costly repairs.
Fitting Pressure Classes
Plumbing fittings have different pressure classes, such as Class 125, 300, or 600, and up to 2500 for industrial settings. These classifications specify the PSI (pounds per square inch) the fitting can handle.
For example, a Class 150 fitting can accommodate up to 150 PSI. Higher classes handle higher pressures, making them suitable for more demanding applications. Knowing these classes helps you choose the best fitting for your plumbing needs.
How Are Pressure Ratings Determined?
The American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) determine pressure ratings for plumbing fittings. These organizations conduct laboratory testing to set pressure ratings as safety guidelines in order to minimize the risk of bursts.
Material strength, temperature, and fitting diameter influence pressure ratings, with different organizations prioritizing various factors. You can convert these standards to one another using comparison charts.
Whether you’re a do-it-yourself kind of person or a professional plumber, understanding what pressure ratings mean for plumbing fittings is essential for the safety and efficiency of your plumbing systems. Explore Craft Supply Corp’s full range of fittings to find the best match for your needs.
Craft Supply is a diverse wholesale distributor of hardware and fitting systems, plumbing supplies, heating supplies, valves and fittings, waterworks and drainage, faucets and fixtures, tools and other equipment as well as many other specialty products within the industry.