Compression joints are fittings used to connect pipes in liquid and gas applications. They come in various materials, shapes, and sizes, with brass being the most common. There are two types of compression joints, with Type A used in liquid hydraulic systems and Type B in gas applications. Compression joints are easy to install and come in various shapes and configurations, including straight fittings, elbow shapes, and multiport fittings. However, they should only be used in stationary systems as they do not perform well with movement or flex.
In the field of plumbing, there is a huge variety of fittings and couplings that come into play. One of the most useful and versatile of these is the compression joint. A compression joint is a unique type of fitting used to connect pipes. These fittings are used in liquid and gas applications.
Compression joints are made from a variety of materials, including brass, copper, plastic, and cast iron. The most common compression joints are made from brass. They also come in a variety of shapes and sizes. The size of a compression joint is determined by the outside diameter of the pipe or tube it contains.
There are two types of compression joints. Type A, referred to as non-manipulative, is used in liquid hydraulic systems. Type B, known as a push fitting, is found in gas applications.
A compression joint works by using clamping force to seal the fitting. The unit consists of a compression nut, a compression ring and a seat. The compression ring, often called a ferrule, is placed on the pipe with the nut behind it. The tube is then inserted into the seat and the nut is screwed onto the seat. When the nut is tightened, it compresses the ring around the tube, creating a leak-free seal.
One of the reasons for the compression joint’s great popularity is the ease with which it can be installed. With the exception of Type B compression joints, no special tools are required. For type B fittings used in gas systems, a special flaring tool is required to flare or widen the end of the pipe to facilitate sealing. It is not necessary to weld a compression joint.
Another property which lends to the extensive use of compression joints is the availability of fittings in a choice of various shapes and configurations. There are straight fittings, called splices, that simply connect two lines together. When a change in direction is required in the system, compression couplings are available in elbow shapes of different grades. An elbow fitting helps eliminate the need to try and bend the hose.
A multiport compression fitting can be used when more than two lines need to be connected. These are very useful for adding additional water or gas outlets to an existing system. Compression couplings are also produced as combination fittings. Combination fittings have a compression fit on one end and another type of fitting, such as a straight nipple, on the other end. These types of fittings are for connecting different types of pipes and tubes.
While highly versatile and adaptable to numerous plumbing situations, a compression coupling should only be used in a system where it will be fairly stationary. These fittings do not perform well with a lot of movement or flex. The common areas where they are located are water tap attachments and water outlets on toilets.
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