Rubber elbows are used to change the direction of pipes in tight spaces. They come in different angles and diameters, and can be made of silicone for high heat and pressure environments. Proper materials and installation are important to avoid catastrophic failures. It’s important to choose the right elbow for the job and be aware of the manufacturer’s recommendations.
A rubber elbow is a piece of elbow made of rubber. The pipe elbow is set at an angle to allow the pipes to change direction. This is often necessary in tight spaces or when running lines from point to point, because that line is rarely straight. The use of elbows allows people to create sets of bent pipe without compromising the integrity of the pipe by attempting to bend or force a length of pipe designed to be straight.
While many people think of rubber as flexible, rubber elbows can actually be quite stiff. The companies that make these products typically offer both 45 degree and 90 degree rubber elbows and variations may be available upon request. Rubber elbows are also available in a range of diameters to connect to various types of pipes and hoses, and some companies make low-profile variants and other variants designed to fit unique spaces. They can also be made with ovoid instead of circular openings for specialty pipes.
Silicone is also available as an alternative to rubber. Silicone Elbows can be used in environments where high heat and pressure are a problem. Whether silicone or rubber, the elbow is often a weak point in the pipeline. The areas where the elbow joins the connecting pipe can become weak and the rubber elbow itself can weaken over time. Signs that an elbow needs to be replaced include softness, obvious holes, cracks and crumbling.
Elbow hose connectors can be used with many different types of hoses including metals, plastics and rubber hose. In all cases, people should ensure that all tubing is suitable for the intended application, rated to handle temperature, pressure, and other conditions that may be encountered. Failure to use the proper plumbing materials can lead to catastrophic failures, such as burst pipes damaging an engine. Similarly, materials used for joinery with a rubber elbow and other plumbing should also be evaluated for the application.
When selecting a rubber elbow, people should consider where and how it is used. Staff can provide specific recommendations for people who aren’t sure which pipe elbow will best meet their needs. People might also ask if there are any specific uses a product isn’t recommended for, especially if they’re working on a somewhat unusual project. It’s also important to be aware that most companies will not accept responsibility for a rubber elbow that was not appropriate for the setting or was improperly installed.
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