What are brass compression fittings?
Brass compression fittings are plumbing connectors used to join pipes or tubing without soldering. Here are the key points about brass compression fittings:
1. Components: They typically consist of three parts:
- A brass body, brass materials usually HPB58-3A, CW617N, CW602N, etc.
- A brass compression ring (also called a ferrule or olive)
- A brass nut
2. How they work:
- The pipe/tube is inserted into the fitting body
- The compression ring is slipped over the pipe
- The nut is tightened, compressing the ring between the nut and fitting body
- This creates a watertight seal
How many types of brass compression fittings for different pipes?
Brass compression fittings are commonly used with the following types of pipes:
brass compression fittings for copper pipe
Copper pipes
Brass compression fittings are frequently used to connect copper pipes in plumbing systems. It’s popular in some African countries, the UK, etc
brass compression fittings for pex pipe
PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene) pipes
Many brass compression fittings are designed to be compatible with PEX piping systems. To connect the pex pipe, the body on the fittings are without the O-rings. Only the brass body, the compression ring and the nut.
brass compression fittings for pex al plex
Pex-al-Pex pipe, Pert-al-Pert pipe or PE-al-PE pipes
The brass compression fittings are a popular fittings for the multilayer pex al pex pipe. For connecting this pipe, there’re 2 O-rings on the body to make sure the seal. The inner structure as below picture shows. It has the brass fittings body, 2 O-rings, 1 Brass ring and the Nut.
brass compression fittings for cpvc pipe
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes
Brass compression fittings can also be used with CPVC pipes. But not very popular.
brass compression fittings for pe piping
PE pipes
There’re also brass compression fittings used for PE pipes. The brass compression fittings for the PE pipe are more complidated in the inner structure. Details you can check the below picture. What’s more, the body is also very heavy, so price is little high.
It's important to note that while brass compression fittings are versatile, you should always check the specific fitting's compatibility with your pipe material and ensure it meets local plumbing codes. The search results don't provide exhaustive information on pipe compatibility, so it's best to consult manufacturer specifications or a professional plumber for specific applications.
Why choose brass compression fittings?
Based on the search results and general knowledge about plumbing fittings, here are some reasons why one might choose brass compression fittings:
1. Durability: Brass is a strong and durable material that can withstand high pressures and temperatures.
2. Corrosion resistance: While brass can corrode under certain conditions, it generally has good corrosion resistance compared to some other materials.
3. Versatility: Brass compression fittings can be used with various types of pipes, including copper, PEX, and some plastic pipes.
4. Easy installation: Compression fittings don't require soldering, making them easier to install, especially in tight spaces or for repairs.
5. Reusability: Unlike some other fitting types, compression fittings can often be disassembled and reused.
6. Suitable for both hot and cold water lines: Brass can handle temperature fluctuations well.
7. Long lifespan: When properly installed and maintained, brass fittings can last for many years.
8. No special tools required: Basic hand tools are usually sufficient for installation.
9. Good for repairs: Compression fittings are often used for quick repairs or in situations where soldering isn't possible.
10. Aesthetic appeal: Some people prefer the look of brass fittings in visible plumbing applications.
However, it's important to note that brass fittings also have some drawbacks:
1. Cost: They can be more expensive than plastic alternatives.
2. Potential for dezincification in certain water conditions.
3. Not suitable for all applications, especially where chemical resistance is required.
4. May not be allowed by local plumbing codes in some areas.
natural gas pipe fittings
How to choose the right compression fittings?
The choice of fitting material should always be based on the specific application, local codes, and the advice of a professional plumber when necessary. The most important thing is, please make sure what pipes you need to use the fittings for. Then choose the corresponding compression fittings. If you have more questions or looking for high quality of brass compression fittings, welcome to contact us
