If you want to connect metals or hard plastic tubes, stainless compression fittings stand to be the most popular and versatile method. Notably, it has got some unique features like handling extreme temperatures and pressure and is compatible with aggressive fluids. It is widely used by different types of industries. Moreover, it is also seen in your homes under your sink. All you need to know about the compression fittings are enumerated below.
Installation
All manufacturers have different stainless compression fittings instructions depending on the type of industry it is. Follow the instructions well before putting things together. But, there are a few things that stand common to all compression fittings while they are installed.
Shape Is Everything
When you buy something, the first factor is its reliability. The same goes for compression seals. The ferrule’s shape, the body fittings, and the mating angle should be ensured well before you use it. Some qualities to mention are;
- With the nuts tightened, they should be tapered to allow proper compression.
- Tubing and axial alignment
- The relative angle determines the amount of linear motion. It will turn into radial compression.
One Piece vs. Two Piece Ferrules
The single ferrule is the most basic stainless compression fittings. Note that single ferrule increases work efficiency with soft material fabrication designs. When working with hard materials, the torque shifts from its position to the single ferrule from the nut fittings as it is tight. While with stainless steels, there is no flow of torque because of the freely rotating rear ferrule that can help decouple the nut from the front ferrule.
Asymmetrical vs. Symmetrical Ferrules
Integral ferrules are often available as asymmetrical or symmetrical. Both versions are radially symmetrical and seal evenly around the tube OD. Alternatively, symmetrical/asymmetrical implies the orientation relative to the nut.
Tube
Stainless compression fittings are most commonly used with rigid tubes, as the walls of the tube must be stiff enough to withstand the compressive forces exerted by the ferrule. Common options include metal tubing (such as stainless steel or copper) or rigid plastic tubing (such as PEEK, nylon, Teflon, Kynar, and polyethylene).
Metal Tubing
The production process makes all the difference in the way it functions. Smooth tubing with no hardness or roughness is one type, but it cannot ensure to save you from leakages. Note: metal to metal seal is cannot adjust much as an elastomeric seal can because it can be deformed.
Applications
Stainless compression fittings are heavily used in:
- Chemical industries
- Pressure vessels
- The oil and gas refinery also has a high demand.
- Other industries include food, chemical, pharmaceutical, beverage, and other industries. Industrial structural parts and mechanical transportation pipelines such as medical treatment, petroleum, light industry, chemical industry, food, and mechanical instrumentation are users of stainless steel compression fittings.
Material Specification of Double Compression Fittings
- Types- Tube to Male and Female, Tube to Union, Instrument Pipe Fitting, and, Accessories
- Ends- Welding, Threaded, JIC
- Standard- There are several types like the ASME SA-479, 304-SS, DIN 4401, ASTM A276 Type 304, BS 970 304S11
- Sizes- 1/8’’- 2’’ and 3mm – 50mm
- Pressure Rating- It includes 3000 Psi, 6000 Psi, 1000 Psi, and 10000 Psi
- Specification- Products manufactured from Round Bar- ASTM A182, and products made out of Hex – ASTM A276
Types of stainless steel compression
- Grade 304 stainless steel
It is accepted to be the most common austenitic stainless steel. It typically includes a high nickel content of 8-10.5 weight per cent and a high chromium content of about 18-20 weight per cent. Other crucial alloying elements include silicon, manganese, and carbon. Iron constitutes the remaining chemical composition.
High levels of chromium and nickel give 304 stainless steel excellent corrosion resistance. Some popular uses for 304 stainless steel include:
- Appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers
- Commercial food processing equipment
- Fasteners
- Plumbing
- Heat exchangers
- Structures in environments that corrode ordinary carbon steel.
- 316 Stainless Steel
316 stainless steel is the second most used stainless steel in the market. The physical and mechanical properties of 316 are nearly identical to 304 stainless steel and contain a similar material composition. The main difference is that 316 stainless steel contains about 2-3% molybdenum. This addition improves corrosion resistance, especially against chlorides and other industrial solvents.
316 Stainless Steel Common Applications:
- Industrial Equipment
- Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Industrial and Chemical Transportation
- Pressure Vessels
- Tanks and Pipes for Chemical Applications
- Non-Surgical Steel Medical Equipment
- Marine Equipment
Advantages of stainless steel compression fittings
- Leak-free
Stainless compression fittings are widely used because there is no risk of leakage during various procedures and processes. These fittings ensure no leaks even at high temperatures and pressures.
- Corrosion Resistant Properties
Stainless steel fittings are designed to provide corrosion-resistant properties that ensure trouble-free performance in a variety of industrial processes. These special properties also increase the service life of the fitting.
- High and low-temperature resistance
Some grades resist scaling and retain high strength at very high temperatures, while others exhibit exceptional toughness at cryogenic temperatures.
- Strength
The work-hardening properties of many stainless compression fittings can be utilized in designs to reduce thickness, weight, and cost. Other stainless steels can be heat treated to produce very high-strength parts.
- Hygienic Properties
The cleanability of stainless steel makes it a top choice for hospitals, kitchens, and food and pharmaceutical processing plants.
- Durability
Stainless compression fittings are extremely durable. Pipe flanges can last for decades and support the flow of liquids and gases in piping systems. Stainless steel is an easy-to-maintain and reliable material.
- Easy Inspection
Pipe flange connection equipment and valves provide easy access points for cleaning and repair. Stainless steel resists rust and corrosion, allowing easy access to the flange for inspection, modification, or cleaning.
Conclusion
So many industries’ applications run with the help of these fittings. So, it is understood that these stainless steel compression fittings are undoubtedly the power hub of any industry. Thanks to those who have invented this mechanism which has helped the market grow much higher than ever before.
