Discover the types of materials for industrial fittings
Industrial fittings are key components used to connect pipes, tubing, and other equipment in various industrial applications. Various materials are utilized for industrial fittings, each with specific pros and cons.
The most commonly used materials for industrial fittings include brass, stainless steel, plastic, rubber, and nickel alloys.
Brass
Brass is a widely used for industrial fittings due to its corrosion resistance and ease of casting. However, brass can be prone to corrosion by both acids and salts, reducing its long-term durability.
Stainless Steel
Highly resistant to corrosion, stainless steel is a durable material. It is immune to both thermal and chemical damage. Its ability to withstand high flow velocities allows it to endure prolonged exposure to the elements in almost any setting. Yet, it can be costly and challenging to work with, potentially limiting its use in some instances.
Plastics
Polyethylene, polypropylene, PVC and other plastics are often utilized for industrial fittings due to their light weight, low cost and resistance to corrosion. They may however be susceptible to thermal deformation and pressure, reducing their long term durability.
Rubber
Rubber is a typical fitting material due to its flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and ability to dampen vibration. Nonetheless, rubber can be exposed to degradation from UV light, harsh chemicals and high temperatures, and thus its long-term durability is reduced.
Nickel alloy
Similar to stainless steel, nickel alloys like Monel and Nichrome are long-lasting and corrosion-resistant materials. But they also can be quite expensive and cumbersome to work with. Hence, their use may be limited in some applications.
