Introduction
What are PVC Pipe Fittings?
Plastic pipe fittings are plastic pipe connectors used in the plumbing & drainage system to join multiple pipes of the same or different sizes either to lengthen the pipeline or change the direction of flow. This regulates the water flow in the plumbing system. Based on their nature, they are either used to combine, divert, or reduce the water flow and come in a variety of sizes and shapes. Combined both the PVC pipe and fittings form an essential part of any water supply or drainage system.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) or Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC) pipe fittings are used as pipe connectors for all plumbing & drainage purposes in residential & commercial buildings and are suitable for cold water distributions (up to 60 Degree C). PVC pipes and fittings are also used for irrigation, municipal water supply and various industrial applications.
PVC Pipes and fittings is the material of choice in India and has proven performance for all the above applications for over 50 years now.
Overview of pvc fittings
Pvc fittings play an essential role in varying plumbing applications that offer versatility, durability, and affordability. Whether you are a professional plumber, understanding varying sizes, types, and uses of these fittings seems to be crucial. The fittings find a huge range of plumbing applications, and let’s delve into areas where these fittings could be better.
Residential plumbing
These fittings are mostly used in residential plumbing systems for drainage, water supply, and for venting purposes.
Irrigation system
The fittings are mostly used for irrigation systems to connect valves, pipes, and sprinklers that makes it a better choice.
Spa and pool plumbing
Pvc pipe fittings serve as the most ideal choice for spa and pool plumbing due to its chlorine and other chemical resistance.
Industrial system
These fittings are widely used in industrial settings for certain purposes, that includes wastewater management, chemical processing, and ventilation systems.
Moreover, proper installation of fittings is pretty essential to ensure a leakage free system, so, for that, you need to go ahead with proper techniques. Firstly, properly measure and cut the pipes to appropriate length with the help of a PVC cutter. Then, ensure to clean the pipes with PVC cleaner to remove dust from it. Make use of adhesives, so that an even layer comes out. Just after adhesive application, join the pipes and fittings together, that ensures a tight fit, make sure to hold the connection for only a few seconds to allow its setting.
Types of PVC pipe fittings or PVC fittings
1. PVC fittings based on shape or PVC fitting names
PVC Tee
PVC Tees fittings are used to connect three pieces of pipes in plumbing or drainage application. Tees have one inlet and two outlets that resemble the right angle (90 degrees) in the shape of T. It can be used to combine the flow from two inlets to one outlet as well in case of drainage. They are also used to spilt the flow into 2 outlets in plumbing.
PVC Wye or Y
PVC Wye fittings are used to connect three pieces of pipes. Wyes have one inlet and two outlets that resemble 120 degree angle in the shape of Y with two inlets coming together at 45 degrees into a single outlet in the drainage applications. It can be used to combine the flow from two inlets to one outlet as well.
PVC Elbow Joint or Bend
PVC Elbow connectors change the direction of flow between the two pipes connected. Common elbows found in the market have 90 degree & 45 degree bends. Elbow fittings are joined together to move around obstructions in the pipe run.
PVC Coupling
A coupler is a very short length of pipe or tube, with a socket at one or both the ends that let the pipes to be joined. Coupling is used to repair a broken or leakage pipe.
PVC Reducer
Plastic pipe reducer fittings are used to connect large diameter pipes to smaller diameter pipes. A reducer changes the pipe size to meet the hydraulic flow requirements of the system.
PVC End Cap
Cap fittings cover the end of the pipe to stop the flow of gas or water. They are used at the endpoint of the piping system and are also used in piping headers for future connections.
PVC Flange
Flange fittings are flat and round to create a tight seal with bolts and clamps. These types of pipe fittings are used when pipes are passed through walls, ceilings, and floors.
PVC Union
Just like couplings, union fittings also connect two similar pipes. There are three pieces in a union namely a nut, a female end, and a male end. As soon as the female and the male end are joined, the nuts provide the pressure needed to seal the joint.
PVC Valves
Valves are used to adjust the flow of fluids. There are two types of valves. Throttling, non-return, and isolation. Throttling valves control the pressure and amount of liquid flowing in the pipe. Non-return valves also are known as check valves that allow the liquid to flow in one direction.
PVC Adaptors (male & female)
Plastic adaptors are pipe fittings used to connect pipes that are of different types. Because an adaptor can be male or female on one end. In case the ends are non-threaded, they can be welded, soldered, or glued to the pipe. PVC adaptors are widely used in different types of water systems.
PVC bushing
Plastic bushings are called as reducer bushings and are used to connect two pipes of different sizes. The larger diameter of the bushing fits inside the larger pipe and the smaller end of the bushing fits inside the smaller pipe.
2. PVC Fitting type based on application:
Pressure pipe fittings:
Fittings used in plumbing are pressure pipe fittings which are thicker, heavier and used for water supply. They are manufactured to different pressure classes.
Non Pressure pipe fittings:
Fittings used in drainage are non-pressure pipe fittings which are light weight and are resistant to many chemicals and waste fluids.
3. Pipe Fitting Type Based On Jointing System
Solvent cement –
It is either available in the liquid or gel forms. They are used to join PVC pipes and other types of plastics. Solvent cement is very convenient to use. Pressure pipe fittings are usually solvent joint type.
Rubber ring –
In this technique, a fluid seal is provided by compressing a rubber ring housed in the socket of a pipe or fitting when the spigot is passed into the socket. Rubber ring type fittings are normally used for non-pressure applications. However some elastomeric rubber ring joint are also designed for pressure applications for water supply and irrigation applications.
Ajay pipes are pioneers in manufacturing PVC pipe and fittings for all your plumbing and drainage needs.
Sizes and availability:
1. UPVC Pressure Pipe Fittings in Sch 80
Sizes: ½”, ¾”, 1”, 1¼”, 1½”, 2”, 2½”, 3”, 4” & 6”
2. PVC Agri Pressure Pipe Fittings in 6 Kg/cm2
Sizes: 20mm, 25mm, 32mm, 40mm, 50mm, 63mm, 75mm, 90mm, 110mm, 160mm
3. PVC SWR Non Pressure Pipe Fittings: Solvent Fit type
Sizes: 75mm, 90mm, 110mm, 160mm
4. PVC SWR Non Pressure Pipe Fittings: Rubber Ring Fit type
Sizes: 75mm, 90mm, 110mm, 160mm
Conclusion
The fittings provide a cost-effective and reliable solution for varying plumbing applications. It is pretty essential to know about the fittings and their benefits, that could tackle the plumbing project. Ensure that the fittings are more efficient along with leakage free plumbing systems.
For any queries, contact the plumbing experts at Ajay pipes on the Toll Free No. : 1800-11-4050 or via email at our email address info@ajaypipes.com
