Different Types of Pipe Couplings in Plumbing System and How to Choose
Basic Types of Pipe Fittings Pipe Elbows If you need to change the direction of flow, threaded or socket weld pipe elbows are typically used. The most popular are: 90-degree and 45-degree elbows. Elbows are key fittings used in plumbing. Street elbows have both male and female threaded ends and are also available in 22-1/2 degree elbows. Pipe Caps With female National Pipe Taper (NPT) threads, they are used to close the end of a male pipe. The cap fits over the end of the male pipe to stop the flow. Pipe Fitting Cross Fitting reducers gradually change the diameter between one pipe and another. These fittings are used to connect two different sized pipes or different sized pipes and fittings. Unlike reducing joints, fitting reducers smoothly reduce the flow rate between a large pipe and a small pipe. Pipe Flanges Flanges are used to connect pipes. Pipes are threaded or welded to flanges and then bolted together to seal. Flange connections are widely used in industrial applic...