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Tube fittings connect runs of tubing for in-line, offset, multi-port, and mounting configurations to other tubing sections, pipe, hose, and other fluid transfer components. Systems are typically configured with straight sections connected by fittings or specially formed connections and joints. Fitting construction and material specifications are application-dependent; user consultation with fitting suppliers is typical for optimization of component selection. Fitting type, fitting ports, tube size, material, and options and features are important specifications to consider when searching for tube fittings.
Choices for tube fitting types include adapter, bulkhead fitting, cap, compression fitting, coupling or connector or hose mender, flexible coupling, 4-way cross, crimp socket, 90 degree elbow, 45 degree elbow, other angle elbow, reducing elbow, expansion joint coupling, ferrule, gland, nipple, offset, plug, concentric reducer, eccentric reducer, return or trap, side outlet elbow, side outlet tee, equal tee, reducing tee, bullhead tee, union, equal wye, and reducing wye. Swivel connections allow one or more fitting ends to rotate or swivel. Fitting ports specifications to consider when searching for tube fittings include configuration, and tube port type selection. The configuration can be all ports are of the same type or multiple port type or adapter. Tube port type choices include NPT male, NPT female, BSP male, BSP female, English straight thread male, English straight thread female, Metric thread male, Metric thread female, barb or rib, compression fitting, face seal, flange, flare, push-to-connect, and weld or braze.
Tube size specifications to consider for tube fittings include fitting size specification, English or fractional size selection, and Metric size selection. The fitting size specification can be based on the inside diameter or the outside diameter. English size selections range from 1/16 to 12 and greater. Metric sizes range from 1mm to 42 mm and greater. Common materials of construction for tube fittings include aluminum, brass, bronze, copper, carbon and alloy steel, stainless steel, and thermoplastic. Common options and features include chromatography fittings, snubber fittings, vacuum tube fittings, biomedical or pharmaceutical fittings, gas fittings, refrigerant fittings, pneumatic tube fittings, hydraulic fittings, and air brake fittings. Sanitary or food grade rated tube fittings are designed and constructed for use with food and beverage applications. Platings such as nickel and chrome are sometimes used on fittings for appearance or corrosion resistance. Pre-insulated fittings include a variety of insulating materials and jacket construction.
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