A Brief Overview of Compression Fittings

Compression fittings are pivotal in achieving secure and leak-free connections in various piping systems. With their ease of installation and dependable performance, these components see use in a wide range of applications. In this brief guide, we’ll help you better understand the uses and types of compression fittings, which can help you make informed decisions for various plumbing projects.

What Are Compression Fittings?

A compression fitting is a type of plumbing joint, coupling, or adapter that connects pipes together or pipes to other valves or fixtures. They consist of three main parts: the compression nut, the compression sleeve (ferrule), and the fitting body. The compression sleeve creates a watertight seal after it slides onto a pipe, and the compression nut attaches to the fitting body through the use of a wrench. Compression fittings typically consist of brass, copper, or stainless steel due to their durability.

How Are Compression Fittings Used?

Compression fittings help in various applications, including residential plumbing, commercial installations, and industrial piping systems. Because they require little to no tubing preparation, they’re particularly useful in situations where disassembly and reassembly are necessary. Compression fittings are also often helpful when connecting pipes of two different materials for leakproof seals.

To install a compression fitting, slide the nut and then the sleeve over the pipe or tubing. Then, insert the pipe or tubing into the fitting body and fasten it to the nut with the sleeve using a wrench. This action compresses the sleeve, creating a tight seal. To prevent leaks, you must cut the pipe cleanly with no sharp edges and insert it fully into the fitting.

Types of Compression Fittings

Compression fittings come in different forms to accommodate various types of pipe connections and layouts. Here are some of the most common compression fittings you can purchase:

• Compression tee fittings: These T-shaped fittings enable the branching of a pipe into opposite directions at 90 degrees.
• Compression elbow fittings: These fittings change the direction of a pipeline by 90 degrees.
• Compression unions: Unions join two pipes together and allow for easy disassembly.
• Compression adapters: These fittings connect pipes of different sizes or materials, making them useful for retrofitting or adapting existing plumbing systems.

This brief overview has discussed how compression fittings are valuable for plumbers because they allow them to easily connect two pipes in a variety of applications. Anyone looking for plumbing fittings should source them from a reputable wholesale hardware supplier, such as Craft Supply Corp. We supply an array of compression fittings and other plumbing supplies to contractors and homeowners.