Whether you’re a business owner, facilities manager, or resident handyperson, you know that plumbing plays an essential role in how your facility operates. Plumbing systems are designed to manage the flow of water and waste in and out of a building. When all goes well, most people don’t notice all the action that’s happening behind the scenes. However, when plumbing goes awry, such as burst pipes or overflowing toilets, suddenly you have everyone’s attention. One line of defense is to learn all you can about the various plumbing parts and pipe fitting systems that are used to connect pipes, appliances, or fixtures. We’ll break down all the basics so that you can determine which parts are right for your application.
What Are Pipe Fittings and Connections?
Pipe fittings and connections are the instrumental parts in a plumbing system that join, connect, or redirect the flow of gasses, liquids, or other materials.
Types of Pipe Fitting Connections
Adaptor Fittings |
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Adaptor fittings are used to join two or more pipes of different sizes together. They come in multiple configurations including cross and T-shaped. |
Hose Barb Fittings |
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Used frequently with soft-side tubing, hose barb fittings are designed with ridges to catch a tube’s interior diameter for a tight seal. |
Coupling Fittings |
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Designed to extend or end a pipe run, pipe couplings are fittings that have either a socket or female threading at one end or both. They allow pipes of any size to be joined together. |
Cross Fittings |
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These four-way fittings have one inlet and four outlets, usually equipped with female-threaded ends. The threading creates a strong grip for male pipe fittings. |
Double-Tapped Bushing Fittings |
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The double-tapped bushing is a flat, round fitting with a threaded insulator on the outside. The interior is threaded in two directions and the top and bottom of the bushing are often dielectric to isolate the fittings when in use. |
Elbow Fittings |
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Elbow fittings are used to change the direction of flow between two pipes. They are available in varying degree bends including 90° and 45°. |
Nipple Fittings |
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A nipple is a short piece of pipe, often with male threading on each end, for connecting to female-threaded fittings or pipes. |
Reducer Fittings |
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A reducer is used when pipe size changes from a larger to a smaller size and new flow requirements need to be met. |
Tee Fittings |
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These T-shaped fittings are used to connect three pieces of pipe and have a 90° connection to the main line. They are used to either split or combine flows. |
Union Fittings |
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Unions connect two similar pipes via a nut or threaded ring at the fitting’s center that can be tightened (to join the pipes) or loosened (to release them). This feature allows the pipes to stay intact when they’re disassembled (as opposed to if they were irreparably cut). |
Valve Fittings |
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Pipe valves are fittings that regulate the flow of liquid or gas within a pipe. |
Wye Fittings |
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Made for drainage applications, these “Y”-shaped fittings have two inlets and a single outlet. Wye fittings are often used in sewage applications. |
Different Types of Fitting Materials
PVC Pipes and Fittings
The white plastic pipes you see everywhere are most likely made from a synthetic polymer called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC pipes and fittings are a top choice for contractors and plumbers because they’re lightweight, durable, and inexpensive. PVC pipes are used in a variety of applications including irrigation, drainage, water supply, and underground plumbing systems. PVC piping is available in a variety of sizes including schedule 40, schedule 80, and schedule 120.
ABS Pipes and Fittings
ABS pipes are another type of synthetic piping and are made from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene. These pipes are usually black and are frequently used in underground plumbing systems, especially in regions that have extremely cold temperatures. ABS pipes can be used in outdoor and indoor applications and are commonly used as waste, drain, or vent piping. They can also be used to insulate electrical wiring. Sunlight can degrade ABS pipes and fittings, so make sure to avoid exposure.
PEX Pipes and Fittings
PEX pipes are made from a crosslinked polyethylene plastic material and are manufactured for specific scenarios. PEX pipes are heat resistant, easier to install, and more flexible than their popular counterparts: copper, steel, and PVC. PEX pipes and fittings are the preference for water-supply systems due to their heat resistance and durability–even when compared to PVC. PEX piping comes in a variety of sizes and A, B, and C forms.
Pipe Fittings Cause Friction
Pipe fittings are necessary and highly useful in plumbing configurations; however, they affect your water flow by causing friction. The fewer fittings you use in your plumbing system, the less friction you’ll create. Below is a chart that compares the friction loss of common fittings compared to the average feet water travels within a pipe. For example, using a ½" T-Branch is equivalent to approximately 3.8' of pipe.
Learn More About Pipe Threading and Threading Abbreviations
Pipes and fittings come in a variety of thread types. Threads are the ridges you may see on the exterior or interior of your pipes and they’re used to connect additional pipes and fittings. To learn all about pipe threading and pipe threading abbreviations, read up on it in this article—a highly informative must-read for the novice.
Below are the definitions of commonly used pipe thread abbreviations.
Additional Supplies for Your Plumbing Job
Pipes and pipe fittings connect in several different ways, depending on the types you’re working with. At Zoro, we carry all the supplies you need to configure a plumbing system and put it all together. Below are some of the additional supplies you may need to connect, measure, and build your plumbing system.
| Sanding Abrasives | Pipe Sealants | Utility Knife Blades | Tape Measures |
| Sandpaper can be used for deoxidizing copper pipes and preparing pipes for soldering and brazing. | Seal gaps between pipe threads with pipe sealants. | An essential in every plumber's tool bag. | The indispensable tool for measuring pipes, fittings, and everything else. |
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No matter the kind of plumbing supplies you need, Zoro has you covered. From our extensive selection of pipes and pipe fittings to plumbing repair and maintenance supplies, we offer supplies and equipment for all your industrial, commercial, manufacturing, and residential plumbing needs. Find everything on your plumbing parts list and everything else you need for your business at everyday low prices at Zoro.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness, or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand, and follow all manufacturer instructions.