Brass Compression Fittings vs Brass Press Fittings For Pex al Pex pipe, Ultimate Comparision

PEX-AL-PEX pipes are a type of multi-layer composite pipe that combines the benefits of both metal and plastic pipes. When it comes to connecting these pipes, two popular options are Brass Compression Fittings and Brass Press Fittings. In this article, we’ll learn more about these brass pipe fittings for the Pex al Pex pipe and PE-AL-PE pipe in water and gas system.

*What are brass compression fittings for pex al pex pipe?

Brass compression fittings for PEX-AL-PEX pipes are mechanical connectors that join sections of PEX-AL-PEX piping to each other or to other types of pipes and fixtures. These fittings use mechanical pressure to seal the connection rather than soldering, adhesives, or other bonding methods. Here’s a detailed explanation of what they are and how they work:

What Are Brass Compression Fittings?

Material

These fittings are made of brass, which is highly durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for plumbing and gas applications. Usually we have brass raw materials HPB58-3A, CW614N, CW617N, CW602N, etc. For more knowledge, we can learn from this post HPB58-3A vs CW617N vs CW602N, what're the differences between these brass pex fittings raw material?

brass compression fittings for pex al pex pipe structure

Components

- Nut: The nut is threaded and screws onto the body of the fitting.

- Compression Ring (Ferrule): This ring or sleeve compresses the pipe when the nut is tightened, creating a watertight seal.

- Body: The body of the fitting is where the pipe inserts and holds the compression ring in place.

-O rings on body: For the pex al pex compression fittings, there’re 2 O-rings on the body, while for pex pipe is without O-rings. And the color usually black for water and gas use, and sometimes yellow for gas. The materials for cold water and gas is NBR (Nitrile-Butadiene Rubber), for hot water is EPDM (Ethylene-Propylene-Diene Monomer).

How Do They Work?

installation for brass compression fittings for pex al pex pipe and pe al pe pipe

1. Insertion:

   - The PEX-AL-PEX pipe is inserted into the fitting’s body.

2. Positioning the Compression Ring:

   - The compression ring is slipped over the pipe and positioned between the nut and the fitting body.

3. Tightening the Nut:

   - The nut is then tightened onto the fitting body. As the nut tightens, it compresses the ring against the pipe, which in turn compresses the pipe against the fitting body.

4. Creating a Seal:

   - The compressed ring creates a watertight seal by forming a tight grip between the pipe and the fitting. This prevents leaks and ensures a secure connection.

Advantages of Brass Compression Fittings

Ease of Installation:

- Installation is relatively simple and doesn’t require specialized tools, making it accessible for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Reusability:

- Compression fittings can be removed and reused, which is beneficial for making adjustments or repairs.

Strong and Reliable:

- They provide a strong, reliable connection when properly installed, suitable for both hot and cold water applications.

Corrosion Resistance:

- Brass is highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting performance in diverse plumbing conditions.

Disadvantages of Brass Compression Fittings

Manual Effort:

- The process of tightening the nut can be labor-intensive, especially when dealing with multiple connections.

Skill Dependent:

- Proper installation requires the right amount of torque. Over-tightening can damage the pipe or fitting, while under-tightening can result in leaks.

Potential for Leaks:

- If not installed correctly, there is a higher likelihood of leaks compared to other types of fittings like press fittings.

Applications

Brass compression fittings are versatile and can be used in various plumbing systems, including:

- Residential plumbing: For both hot and cold water supply lines.

- Heating systems: Connecting pipes in radiant floor heating or hot water heating systems.

- Compressed air systems: Suitable for compressed air lines due to their secure sealing capability.

- Gas Piping Systems: The compression gas fittings are widly used to connect the PE-AL-PE gas pipe and PEX-AL-PEX gas pipe in Africa, Mexico, Peru, some European countries, etc.

brass compression fittings for pex al pex pipe

Common Types

- Straight Couplings: For connecting two sections of the same diameter pipe.

- Elbows: For changing the direction of the piping.

- Tees: For branching off a section of the piping.

- Adapters: For transitioning from PEX-AL-PEX to other types of pipes or fixtures.

*What are brass press fittings for pex al pex pipe?

Brass press fittings for PEX-AL-PEX pipes are a type of plumbing connector that uses a mechanical pressing tool to create a secure and leak-proof connection. These fittings are widely appreciated for their ease of installation, reliability, and durability. Here’s a detailed explanation of what they are and how they work:

What Are Brass Press Fittings?

Material:

-       These fittings body are made of brass, which is the same as the compression fittings. But the press fittings has a crimp ring or we call Sleeve, which is made by 304 stainless steel materials. And the press fittings have a plastic block to fix this stainless steel ring. The color is usually white or red for water system, and yellow for gas piping system.

brass press fittings for pex al pex pipe stucture

Components:

-       Press Sleeve: A metal sleeve that slides over the joint where the pipe and the fitting meet. This sleeve is compressed during installation.

- Body: The core part of the fitting that the PEX-AL-PEX pipe inserts into. The body often has barbs or ridges to help grip the pipe.

- O-Rings: Sealing rings made of NBR or EPDM are located inside the fitting body to ensure a tight and leak-free seal when compressed. The press fittings O-rings materials and function are the same as the compression fittings.

How Do They Work?

brass press fittings for pex al pex and pe al pe pipe installation

1. Preparation:

   - Measure and cut the PEX-AL-PEX pipe to the desired length using a PEX tubing cutter. Ensure the cut is clean and straight.

2. Inserting the Pipe:

   - Slide the press sleeve onto the pipe, then fully insert the pipe into the fitting body until it reaches the stop.

3. Positioning the Sleeve:

   - Ensure the press sleeve covers the section where the pipe meets the fitting. There’re 3 observe holes on the sleeve body, we can see from here whether the pipe goes to the end of the fittings body.

4. Using the Press Tool:

   - Place the jaws of the press tool around the press sleeve and activate the tool. The tool compresses the sleeve, which in turn compresses the pipe and the fitting, making a secure connection.

5. Ensuring Proper Seal:

   - The compression of the sleeve tightens the pipe against the O-ring inside the fitting body, creating a leak-proof seal.

Advantages of Brass Press Fittings

Speed and Efficiency:

- Installation is quick and straightforward, significantly reducing labor time compared to manual fittings like compression fittings.

Consistency and Reliability:

- The use of a press tool ensures a uniform, consistent seal, which minimizes the chance of leaks due to human error.

Long-Term Performance:

- Given the uniform pressure applied by the press tool, these fittings are incredibly durable and reliable over the long term.

No Flames or Chemicals:

- Installation does not require flames, solder, or adhesives, making the process cleaner and safer.

Reduced Skill Requirement:

- Less skill is needed compared to other methods since the tool guarantees a proper crimp if used correctly.

Disadvantages of Brass Press Fittings

Tool Investment:

- Initial investment in a press tool can be significant, making it less economical for small or one-off projects.

Non-Reusable:

- Once crimped, press fittings cannot be reused. Any adjustments or changes require cutting out the existing fitting and installing a new one.

Limited Access:

- Working in tight or awkward spaces can be challenging if the press tool cannot fit properly.

Applications

Brass press fittings for PEX-AL-PEX pipes are versatile and can be used in a variety of plumbing systems, including:

- Residential Plumbing: Both hot and cold water supply lines.

- Heating Systems: Ideal for radiant floor heating and other hydronic heating systems.

- Commercial Applications: Suitable for large-scale plumbing installations due to their reliability and quick installation.

- Gas Piping Systems: The press gas fittings are widly used to connect the PE-AL-PE gas pipe and PEX-AL-PEX gas pipe in South Africa, Australia, Brazil, Peru, Columbia, India, Indonesia, other European countries, etc.

brass press fittings ofr pex al pex pipe

Common Types

- Straight Couplings: Connect two sections of the same diameter pipe.

- Elbows (90° or 45°): Change the direction of the piping.

- Tees: Branch off a section of the piping to a new line.

- Adapters: Male or female adapters, transition from PEX-AL-PEX to other types of pipes or fixtures.

- Manifolds: Distribute water from a single source to multiple lines efficiently.

*Brass compression fittings vs brass press fittings

*Conclusion

Brass press fittings for PEX-AL-PEX pipes are an excellent choice for both professional and large-scale plumbing projects due to their ease of installation, reliability, and long-term durability. While the initial investment in a press tool might be high, the time saved and the reduction in potential leaks make it a worthwhile investment for many applications.

The brass compression fittings all made by brass, so price is higher than the press fittings. But it’s disassembled and reused. This is the biggest advantage.

Both types of fittings have their place in the installation of PEX-AL-PEX pipes, and the best choice depends largely on the specifics of your project. And also you need to consider what are already popular in your market.

For more questions for the brass compression fittings and press fittings or you’re interested in our products, welcome to contact us