Choosing the Right Plumbing Fitting: A Comprehensive Guide

Selecting the right type of fitting is crucial for the success of any plumbing or heating project. Whether you are working on a new installation, repairs, or a retrofit, the fittings you choose will impact the system’s reliability, efficiency, and overall performance.

This guide will help you understand the different types of fittings available, their advantages and disadvantages, and how to select the best one for your specific needs.

Why Choosing the Right Fitting Matters

Fittings are essential components in any plumbing or heating system as they connect pipes, control flow, and provide direction. Choosing the wrong fitting can lead to leaks, pressure loss, and even system failure, which can be costly and time-consuming to fix. Therefore, understanding the different types of fittings and their applications is key to achieving a successful installation.

What Are Compression Fittings?

Compression fittings are widely used in plumbing, heating, and gas installations because of their simplicity and reliability. They consist of three main components: a compression nut, a compression ring (also known as an olive), and a fitting body. The olive compresses against the pipe and the fitting body as the nut is tightened, forming a watertight seal.

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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Key Components of Compression Connection

• Compression Nut: A threaded nut that tightens over the fitting body.

• Compression Ring (or Olive): A metal ring that compresses between the nut and fitting body to form a seal.

• Fitting Body: The main part of the fitting that connects to the pipe.

• Pipework: Copper, Plastic or Steel Pipe.

How Compression Fittings Work

When the compression nut is tightened, the olive compresses between the pipe and the fitting body, creating a leak-proof seal. The seal is formed by metal-on-metal contact, making it robust and durable without the need for heat or solder.

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.

Best Use Cases For Compression Fittings

1. Demountable Installations
   Compression fittings are ideal for installations that may need to be disassembled occasionally or even frequently, offering a reliable and easy to connect/disconnect solution.

2. Mixed Material Connections
   Compression fittings are versatile and can connect copper, plastic, and steel pipework, making them an excellent choice when you need to mix different materials within your installation.

3. Heat Free Installations
   Compression fittings are a great option for installations where open flames are prohibited, providing a safe and efficient connection without the need for soldering.

4. Low Skilled Installations
   Compression fittings are perfect for both DIY home projects and commercial applications that require less specialised skills. Their ease of use, straightforward connections, and minimal tooling make them an ideal choice for a wide range of users.

What Are Capillary Fittings?

Capillary Fittings, also known as Soldered Fittings, are the most traditional plumbing connectors that use capillary action to form a secure bond between the fitting and the pipe. These fittings are made of copper, brass or bronze, and require soldering to seal the joint. Capillary fittings are commonly used in domestic and commercial plumbing, heating, and cooling systems.

Capillary

Flowflex Capillary fittings are designed for precision and reliability in copper pipe connections. Featuring a capillary action for secure, leak-free joints, they ensure ease of installation and longevity. Ideal for domestic and commercial applications, these fittings provide a neat, robust, and corrosion-resistant solution for HVAC systems.

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Key Features of a Capillary Connection

• Fitting Body: Made of copper or brass, designed to fit snugly around copper pipe manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

• Copper Pipe: Copper tube manufactured to BS EN 1057 standards.

• Solder: A metal alloy used to bond the fitting and pipe together when heated.

• Flux: A chemical cleaning agent applied to the joint before soldering to prevent oxidation and ensure a strong and clean bond.

Advantages of Capillary Connections

• Strong, Permanent Joints
  Soldered joints create a durable, leak-proof seal that can withstand high pressure and temperature changes.

• Can Support Higher Pressures
  Depending on the choice of solder, Capillary Fittings can reach pressure ratings of PN25.

• Environmentally Friendly Material
  Copper is a sustainable and recyclable material, making capillary fittings an environmentally friendly option.

• Compact Design
  Soldered fittings are sleek and low-profile, making them ideal for exposed installations where aesthetics matter or tight spaces where access is limited.

• Cost-Effective
  Generally cheaper than other types of fittings, making them popular for large installations.

• Highly Reliable
  Minimal risk of leaks when installed correctly due to the solid bond between the fitting and the pipe.

Disadvantages of Capillary Connections

• Requires Open Flame
  The use of a torch introduces safety risks, particularly in areas where flammable materials are present or where heat is restricted.

• Higher Skill Level Required
  Proper soldering technique is crucial; poor preparation or overheating can result in weak joints or leaks.

What Are Press Fittings?

Press fittings are modern plumbing connectors that use mechanical force to create a seal between the fitting and the pipe. These fittings are installed using a specialised press tool, which compresses the fitting around the pipe, creating a leak-proof seal without the need for heat or solder.

Press

Discover Flowflex Press fittings, ideal for domestic, commercial, and industrial applications. Offering heat-free, aesthetically pleasing joints, our independently approved fittings ensure speedy installations. Available in sizes from 15mm to 108mm, they provide a cost-effective and reliable solution. Click to explore our comprehensive range of M-Profile Copper Press fittings.

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Key Features of A Press Connection

• Fitting Body
  Made of brass, copper or steel, designed to fit snugly around its respective pipe.

• Pipework
  Copper tube manufactured to EN 1057 standards, steel tube manufactured to EN 10305 or EN 10312 standards, or multilayer pipe manufactured to ISO 21003.

• Seal
  Utilises a rubber O-ring, typically made of EPDM or similar, which is compressed against the pipe during the pressing process to form the seal.

Advantages of Press Connections

• Fast and Easy Installation
  The installation of Press Fittings is very quick, saving time compared to other methods like soldering, brazing or using Compression Fittings.

• Minimal Training Required
  Unlike more traditional methods, Press Fittings are easy to learn and use.

• No Flame Required
  Since no heat is used, Press fittings are ideal for installations in areas where flames are restricted or pose a fire risk.

• Reliable and Leak-Proof
  When installed correctly, Press fittings provide a secure, leak-proof connection that meets industry standards.

• Can Be Installed When Wet
  No need to drain water out of the system during installation

• Environmentally Friendly
  Copper, Brass and Steel are all highly recyclable materials, making metal Press Fittings an environmentally friendly option for your project.

• Neat, Aesthetic Appearance
  Press fittings offer a sleek, professional look that is great when aesthetics are important. Their streamlined design blends seamlessly with the pipework, making them suitable for visible applications in both residential and commercial settings.

• Versatile Applications
  Press Fittings are suitable for hot and cold water, heating systems, compressed air, and some gas applications (depending on the type of o-ring used).

• Reduced Risk of Installation Errors
  The precision of the press tool minimises the risk of errors during installation. The tool’s built-in safety features, such as press indicators, ensure that each fitting is correctly compressed, resulting in a secure and leak-proof connection.

Disadvantages of Press Connections

• Higher Initial Cost
  Press fittings and the required press tool are more expensive upfront compared to other more traditional methods.

• Tool Dependency
  A specialised press tool is necessary for installation, which can be costly and requires maintenance.

• Limited Access in Tight Spaces
  Press tools may have difficulty accessing fittings in confined spaces, making installation challenging in certain scenarios.

Best Use Cases For Press Fittings

1. Commercial and Industrial Plumbing
   Press fittings are perfect for large-scale installations where speed and consistency are essential, providing a quick and reliable connection with minimal effort.

2. Heat Free Installations
   Press fittings are an excellent choice for installations where the use of an open flame is not permitted, ensuring a safe and efficient connection without the need for soldering.

3. Low Skilled Installations
   Press fittings are perfect for commercial applications that require minimal specialised skills. Their user-friendly design and simple, secure connections make them suitable for a broad range of users.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Fitting

When selecting the right fitting for your project, consider the following factors:

1. Application Requirements
   Consider the specific needs of your project, including the type of system (e.g., water, gas, heating), pressure levels, and temperature conditions. Some fittings are better suited for high-pressure or high-temperature environments than others.

2. Material Compatibility
   Ensure the fitting is compatible with the pipe material you are using. For example, Compression Fittings are versatile and can connect with several types of pipe, while Capillary Fittings are only used with copper pipes.

3. Installation Environment
   Evaluate the installation environment, such as how confined spaces will be or there are flammable materials nearby. If there is a severe fire risk, you may want to avoid Capillary Fittings, if your design permits.

4. Skill Level
   Consider the skill level of the installer. If you are less experienced or want a quicker installation process, options like Press Fittings or Compression Fittings may be more suitable. Traditional fittings like Capillary Fittings require a higher skill level.

5. Budget Constraints
   Budget is always a key factor. While Press offer speed and convenience, they are typically more expensive. And their associated tooling is expensive. Capillary and Compression Fittings are often more cost-effective but may require more time and skill.

6. Aesthetics
   For exposed installations, aesthetics can be important. Capillary Fittings and Press fittings can provide a neat and professional appearance, while Compression fittings are more obvious against the pipe they are connected to. It all depends on your preferences.

7. Reusability and Maintenance
   Compression Fittings can be demounted and reused, offering flexibility for repairs and adjustments. Others, like Press and Capillary Fittings, are inherently permanent.

Wrapping Up

Choosing the right type of fitting is essential for a successful plumbing or heating project. By understanding the pros and cons of each fitting type and considering factors like installation environment, skill level, and budget, you can make an informed decision that ensures a reliable and efficient system.

Whether you opt for the modern convenience of Press Fittings, the traditional reliability of Capillary Fittings, or the simplicity of Compression Fittings connectors, selecting the right fitting will help you achieve a professional-quality installation that stands the test of time.