The Advantages of Compression Fittings: A Comprehensive Guide

Compression fittings are a staple in plumbing, heating, and gas installations due to their versatility, ease of use, and reliability. They are designed to create secure, leak-proof connections without the need for heat or solder, making them an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. This guide explores the key benefits of compression fittings, explaining why they are a popular choice across various applications.

Compression

Flowflex Compression fittings, including Type A, Type B, PEX, and Large Bronze Flange Fittings, offer secure, leak-free connections, easy installation, and durability. They ensure flexibility in plumbing, are corrosion-resistant, and provide robust performance, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of HVAC systems.

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What Is A Compression Connection?

A compression joint creates a secure, yet demountable, seal by compressing an olive (inner-ring) against a pipe. The joint consists of three main components: a compression nut, an olive, and the fitting body. When the nut is tightened, it compresses the olive against the pipe, forming a seal that prevents leaks and holds the connection firmly in place, allowing a smooth flow of liquids or gases.

Where Are Compression Fittings Used?

Compression Fittings are versatile and used across numerous industries to connect tubes or pipes of various materials. Being demountable, they are an easy choice for systems that need to be maintained regularly.

They are commonly found in:

• Automotive sector

• Domestic and Commercial HVAC systems

• Oil & Gas

• Low-pressure gas installations

• Various industrial services

What Types of Compression Fittings Are there?

Normal compression Fittings

Normal Compression Fittings, sized from 8mm to 54mm, are made from brass and designed to connect multiple types of pipe, including copper, plastic, and steel. Easy to install with basic tools, these Compression Fittings are ideal for both domestic and commercial applications, offering versatility and the ability to disassemble and reuse for adjustments or repairs.

Type A Compression Fittings

Flowflex Compression Fittings are the perfect solution for your plumbing needs, offering unparalleled reliability and ease of installation. Crafted from high-quality materials, these fittings ensure a secure and leak-free connection, making them ideal for both residential and commercial applications. Our compression fittings are designed and manufactured to BS EN 1254 standard, providing you with peace of mind and long-lasting results.

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PEX compression Fittings

Compression PEX Fittings, typically sized from 16mm, are designed specifically for use with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) Pipes. Made from brass, these fittings create a watertight seal by inserting a spigot inside the PEX pipe and using a split ring olive to bite into the outer wall of the pipe. Ideal for plumbing, heating, underfloor heating and potable water systems, they provide a reliable, flame-free connection without the need for special tools or heating.

PEX System

Flowflex PEX fittings provide reliable brass-to-PEX connections for various plumbing needs. Available in 16mm and 20mm sizes, they ensure quality and durability for water systems, central heating, and underfloor heating. These fittings offer easy, heat-free installation and compatibility with wet pipework. With BS EN 1254-3 compliance and a 25-year guarantee, Flowflex PEX fittings promise long-lasting performance. Click to learn more about our range.

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Large compression Fittings

Large Industrial Compression Fittings joined by flanges are specifically designed for heavy-duty applications in industrial settings. These fittings are made from Bronze for robust connections between pipes. They are designed to connect by compressing the joint between flanged ends using bolts and gaskets, providing exceptional strength and a secure, leak-proof seal. They are easy to assemble and disassemble, flanged compression fittings are ideal for large-scale systems that require frequent maintenance or modifications.

Large Compression Fittings

Discover our premium large brass compression fittings, ranging from 67mm to 108mm, made in the UK to the highest standards. Perfect for professional installers, these fittings join copper pipes with a heat-free mechanical joint. Click to explore our reliable, high-quality solutions for your plumbing needs.

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What Are The Advantages Of Compression Fittings?

1. Heat-Free Connections
   Compression fittings do not require soldering or welding, making them ideal for construction sites where hot works are restricted or where open flames are not safe.

2. Ease of Assembly
   Compression joints are easy to understand and install, making them suitable for both DIYers and professionals. Simply slide the pipe into the fitting, add the olive, and tighten the nut.

3. No Special Tools Needed
   Only basic tools, like adjustable spanners, are required to install compression fittings - no expensive or specialised equipment necessary.

4. Easy to Disassemble
   If maintenance or disassembly is needed, compression fittings can be undone and reassembled without damaging the connection.

5. Reusable Components
   Compression fittings can be reused in future installations. Simply replace the olive with a new one from the same manufacturer, as the old olive remains fixed to the original pipe.

6. Installation in Wet Conditions
   These fittings can be installed in wet environments, speeding up repair times and making them ideal for leak fixes.

7. Environmentally Friendly Materials
   Copper alloys are sustainable and recyclable materials, making Compression Fittings an environmentally friendly option.

8. Compatible With Multiple Types of Pipe
   Compression fittings are not limited to copper; they work with plastic, carbon steel, and stainless steel pipes, making them adaptable to multiple systems.

Considerations

Over-tightening

Over-tightening can damage the olive or pipe. Tighten until the nut stops with reasonable force, and avoid turning further.

Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC)

SCC can occur in brass components exposed to tensile stresses and corrosive environments, often due to over-tightening or contamination. Proper installation practices prevent SCC; read more in our article on SCC for detailed guidance.

Conclusion

For a quick, cost-effective, and reliable connection, compression fittings are unbeatable. If you want to learn more about compression fittings or need assistance, explore our product range or contact us directly for support.