Exploring the Various Types of Pipes & Fittings in Plumbing Systems
Plumbing systems ensure the safe and efficient movement of water, waste, and other fluids within a building. The right pipes and fittings ensure the longevity, safety, and efficiency of the plumbing systems.
Stainless Steel Pipes
Renowned for their strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to withstand high temperatures, stainless steel pipes are used in industrial projects, residential plumbing, and Hotel and resort. It is available in a variety of sizes, ranging from ½ inch to 3 inches in diameter, and in various grades like 304 and 316L.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes have earned a long-standing reputation in plumbing for their dependability and longevity. They come in various sizes, ranging from 1/4 inch to 12 inches in diameter. It corrodes in an acidic environment and it is difficult to install.
PEX Pipes
It is frequently utilized within modern plumbing designs owing to its resilience and adaptability. Its ability to bend around corners reduces the need for fittings, minimizing leak risks. PEX does not scale hence it is used for indoor water supply lines, radiant floor heating, and hot and cold plumbing systems. Since it gets damaged by UV light, it is not suitable for outdoor use
PVC Pipes
Preferred for their lightweight, chemical resistance, and ease of use, these pipes are not suitable for hot water applications and degrade under UV exposure due to their plastic and vinyl composition.
CPVC Pipes
Chlorinated PVC pipes are known as CPVC pipes and it is done to withstand higher temperatures. These pipes have a high level of resistance against chemical damage and corrosion. It is available in sizes from 1/2 inch to 2 inches in diameter. But it is expensive than regular PVC pipes and it becomes brittle over time.
Braided Pipes
Braided pipes consist of a rubber hose surrounded by a stainless steel braided sheath, providing flexibility, strength, and resistance to pressure and kinking. They are typically used for connecting appliances like water heaters, sinks, and toilets. Due to its limited use and its being expensive, it isn’t used much in plumbing systems.
ABS Pipes
It is similar to PVC but has greater impact resistance and the ability to withstand lower temperatures. However, ABS pipes are sensitive to UV lights and not suitable for outdoor and due to their chemical composition are not used for potable water systems
Cast Iron Pipes
It is available in larger diameters, from 2 inches to 15 inches or more. It is mostly used for main sewage drains and large-scale water distribution. It is heavy and difficult to install, it is also prone to rust and corrosion
What are Pipe Fittings?
Pipe fittings or pipe connectors are the one of the main components in the plumbing systems. It is used for multiple functions like branching, rerouting, regulating, controlling, and throttling.
Common Types of Pipe Fittings
- Elbows: They are used in plumbing systems to alter the flow's direction. These pipe fittings are available in various angles, such as 45 and 90 degrees. It can be used with all types of piping materials like copper, PVC, and steel.
- Tees: Tees, shaped like the letter 'T,' are designed to join or divide fluid flow in a piping system. Tees are available in equal and reduced sizes to match the diameters of the pipes being connected.
- Couplings: Couplings are used to connect two pipes in a straight line or to extend the pipe length. It is made of materials like PVC, copper, and steel.
- Unions: Pipes can be disconnected without requiring cuts because of unions. It is often used in systems where maintenance or future disconnection is anticipated.
- Adapters: Adapters change the end of a pipe to a different size or type, enabling compatibility between different piping systems. They can be utilized to connect pipes of different materials or sizes.
- Valves: Valves are essential components in a plumbing system that regulate the flow and pressure of fluids. The types of valves include ball valves, gate valves, and check valves. It can stop or regulate water flow and also prevent backflow.
- Caps and Plugs: Caps and plugs are employed to close off a section of the plumbing system. Caps fit over the end, while plugs fit inside the pipe.
- Bushings: Bushings are used when connecting a larger pipe to a smaller one or fitting.
- Flanges: Flanges act as connectors between pipes, valves, and pumps in a piping system.
Connect with Insta Pressfit for the right type of stainless steel pipes and fittings for your plumbing system.