Brass pipe fittings are indispensable components in plumbing, HVAC and various industrial fluid handling systems. This article provides an in-depth overview of the most common brass fitting types Venus Enterprise, their specific applications, and best practices for proper installation to achieve leak-free reliability.
Fitting Types and Uses
- Elbows – Used to change direction in pipe runs. Available in 90° and 45° configurations. Help avoid sharp bends that restrict flow.
- Tees – Allow branch connections to the main pipe. Reducing tees join different pipe sizes. Cross tees split flows equally.
- Couplings – Join two sections of pipes along the run. Reduce need for exact cut lengths. Allows disassembly for maintenance.
- Adapters – Allow connecting incompatible pipe sizes or joining pipe to valves/equipment. Eccentric reducers off-set for better flow.
- Caps – Close open pipe ends during installation or for future connections. Prevent debris ingress.
- Unions – Temporary joints permitting easy dismantling later. Useful for equipment that requires frequent servicing. Avoid soldering/welding.
- Flanges – Permanent mechanical joints between pipe sections. Bolted to allow disassembly. Provides stronger, leak-proof seal than threads in high pressure applications.
Material Grades
- Cast brass – Used for low pressure installations. Comparatively lower strength.
- Forged brass – Stronger fittings made by hot forging process. Used for high pressure plumbing and industrial pipes.
Key Benefits
- Corrosion resistant, non-reactive surface
- Strong, durable construction
- Smooth surface finish for unimpeded flow
- Variety of configurations for versatile connections
Installation Tips
- Use PTFE tape on threads to prevent leakage. Apply in direction of threading.
- Avoid over-tightening. Brass is a soft metal; excessive torque can st