A return bend is a U-shaped pipe fitting that allows for a 180 degree change in direction. It can be made of various materials and is commonly used to connect parallel pipes. Careful consideration should be given to material selection and sizing, and clogs can be prevented with proper system design.
A return bend is a pipe fitting that allows a pipe to make a 180 degree change in direction. The return curves are U-shaped and could be considered two L-curves joined together. This type of fitting can be stamped, cast, or made by heating and bending existing pipe. Most plumbing supply and equipment stores offer return bends in a variety of materials and sizes, and custom fittings can usually be ordered for special circumstances. Plumbers can also make their own U-bends if they have the necessary equipment to work pipes.
The return elbow is usually threaded so that it can connect with other pipes. When two pipes run parallel to each other and a connection must be made between them to allow fluid flowing from one pipe to be returned to the other, a return bend is the most commonly used fitting. There are a number of settings where such fittings can be useful. For example, in a solar water heater, a grid of parallel pipes connected together with U-bends can be used to maximize sun exposure so that the water heats up as it moves through the series of pipes.
The materials used to make a return bend can be important. Some options include various plastics, copper, and cast iron. Different materials have strengths and weaknesses that need to be weighed when installing fittings. Copper, for example, is often claimed to be quieter for home plumbing. Plastic, however, may be easier to work with and install. Other considerations may include the climate in the area where the plumbing is being installed and what is being moved through the pipes.
Bends can become problem areas in the plumbing system, as materials other than fluids when they end up in the plumbing system can become clogged in the bends and cause problems. Like other types of bent pipe fittings, a return bend is carefully designed to reduce the risks of solids in the pipes becoming trapped in it. Plumbers also usually design systems to make it difficult for solids to enter and include traps and strainers that can be used to catch solids before they get deep into the plumbing and become difficult to remove.
When selecting a return bend for a plumbing project, it is important to select a fitting that is sized appropriately for the project and uses the right material. People who are inexperienced in plumbing tasks may want to seek advice from a hardware store staff member or consider consulting a plumber to find out which fitting would be best suited for a given project.
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