Pipe Fittings: Various aspects of Using them

Pipe fitting is meant for plumbing and piping system which is used in commercial and industrial industries. Fitting helps pipes to be joined properly so as to close them wherever required. These fittings can be found in market in different sizes and shapes. Besides, they can demand more time and can be expensive. They use distinct tools and materials to join and install. If you are working with plumbing or piping, then it is very essential to use pipe fitting.

There is an assortment of fitting available in market. All pipes require a unique type of fitting but there are certain common features which are shared by all type of pipe fittings. Wherever materials for plumbing are sold, you can easily and conveniently find pipe fittings.

How to connect pipe fittings with the pipe?
You can find pipe fittings in two varieties, female fittings and male fittings. The female threads are there on the inner side in a threaded pipe fitting. Street fittings are those having a male and a female end. Tube and pipes can be connected using pipe fittings in two ways:

Threading
Threaded pipes are twisted together for joining them. In most cases, metal pipes have threaded fittings.

Slip fit
Sleeves are used with slip fit pipes and they slip into each other. Generally, plastic pipes are slip fit but they can also be threaded.

What criteria should be considered in selection of pipe fitting?

There are certain factors to be considered while selecting pipe fitting:

Types of connection
While you are embarking on the journey of buying pipe fittings, you must keep in mind that there are two types of connectors. It may be that one end is female threaded while the other female slip. Or it may be that one end is male slip while the other end is threaded when you are talking about plastic fittings. Besides, they are also available with matching ends, which can house all requirements.

Construction materials
It is a common phenomenon that the pipe fitting material should be same as the material used in the pipe. Nevertheless, at times, certain materials can also be used in pipes of made of any material.