Fittings & Connectors

About fittings & connectors

Fittings and connectors are essential components for establishing and maintaining fluid or pneumatic connections in various systems. This category encompasses a wide range of connection types, each designed for specific pressure, temperature, and media compatibility requirements. Common types include push-to-connect fittings, which offer rapid assembly and disassembly for pneumatic and low-pressure fluid applications, often utilizing an O-ring and gripping collet mechanism. Compression fittings create a seal by compressing a ferrule onto tubing, suitable for higher pressures and a variety of tubing materials. JIC (Joint Industry Council) fittings, defined by their 37-degree flare, are prevalent in hydraulic systems, providing a robust, leak-resistant metal-to-metal seal. NPT (National Pipe Taper) and BSP (British Standard Pipe) fittings are common thread forms for general-purpose pipe connections, with NPT being tapered and BSP available in both parallel (BSPP) and tapered (BSPT) versions. Barbed fittings are used for flexible hose connections, relying on a series of ridges to grip the inside of the hose. Selection criteria often involve nominal size (e.g., tube OD, NPT size, dash size for JIC), pressure rating, temperature range, and material compatibility. Common materials include brass, stainless steel (304, 316), carbon steel, and various plastics like nylon, polypropylene, and PVDF, with finishes such as nickel plating or zinc plating for corrosion resistance.