Copper Compression Fittings, also known as flare fittings, are commonly used in plumbing applications to join two lengths of copper pipe. They work by squeezing a mechanical seal around the pipe and compressing it against the fitting. This provides a water-tight seal that is typically long-lasting and reliable – making them ideal for residential and commercial uses.
They offer several advantages over other types of fittings, including corrosion resistance, high-pressure ratings, easy installation (no soldering required) and being cost-effective due to their durability. Additionally, they can be installed in tight spaces with minimal tools required and come in many shapes, such as elbows, couplings or unions, making them more versatile than other plumbing fixtures.
What is Copper Compression Fittings?
Copper Compression Fittings are connectors used to join sections of copper tubing in plumbing or air-conditioning installations. They use two nuts and a sleeve to make a strong and secure connection without the need for soldering, making them easier to install than other copper fittings. They offer excellent resistance to corrosion, good electrical conductivity, superior heat transfer capabilities and help create tight seals when correctly installed.
Properties of Copper Compression Fittings?
Mechanical Properties of Copper Compression Fittings:
- Copper is a highly ductile metal that can easily be formed into various shapes without breaking.
- Copper is an excellent conductor of heat and electricity, making it ideal for electrical applications.
- Copper is corrosion-resistant, making it ideal for use in plumbing applications.
- Copper has a low coefficient of thermal expansion, meaning it expands and contracts very little when heated or cooled.
- Copper is a relatively soft metal, making it easy to work with and shape.
Chemical Properties of Copper Compression Fittings:
- Compression fittings for copper pipes are made of an alloy of 70% copper and 30% zinc and are used to join straight pipe lengths. There are two basic types of compression fittings for copper pipe: the ferrule fitting and the olive fitting.
- The ferrule is a small cylinder that fits over the outside of the pipe and is compressed against the inside of the olive by the nut. The ferrule is usually made of brass or other metal.
- The olive is a cone-shaped piece that fits over the pipe and is compressed against the ferrule by the nut. Olives are usually made of brass or other metal.
- The nut is threaded onto the end of the compression fitting and tightened to compress the ferrule against the olive.
- Compression fittings for copper pipe are available in various sizes, ranging from 1/8″ to 1″ in diameter.
- The most common size for residential applications is 1/2″
- Two basic types of compression fittings for copper pipe are elbow fittings and tee fittings.
- Elbow fittings are used to connect two lengths of pipe at an angle, usually 90 degrees.
- Tee fittings are used to connect three lengths of pipe.
Uses of Copper Compression Fittings
- Copper compression fittings are most commonly used in plumbing applications to connect two pieces of pipe.
- Copper compression fittings can also be used in electrical applications to create a secure connection between two pieces of copper wire.
- Copper compression fittings are also commonly used in automotive applications, such as connecting brakes or fuel lines.
- Copper compression fittings are also used in industrial applications, such as connecting pipes in chemical plants or food processing facilities.
- Copper compression fittings are also used in medical applications, such as connecting oxygen tubing or IV tubings.
Conclusion:
Copper compression fittings are a type of tubing connection commonly used in plumbing applications. These fittings feature a two-piece construction with male and female ends that interlock for a secure seal. They can be used to join pipes or hoses, reduce or increase the size of existing pipe lines, and even create an angle between two pipe lines. Their durable design makes them ideal for connecting copper water supply lines, gas pipes, oil systems, as well as other fluid transfer systems.
