|
Pneumatic fittings are specifically designed for use in compressed air lines. In pneumatics, pressurized air is used to affect mechanical motion. Pneumatics and pneumatic fittings are generally used in industry settings, but are also used in dentistry, construction, mining, and other applications.
These fittings require a tight seal so that the air in the system is not lost. Pressure in the fittings need to be maintained to ensure the application is served properly.
Pneumatic fittings come in a variety for styles, depending on the application. Common styles for pneumatic fittings include adapter, cap or plug, coupling, cross or 4-way, 45 or 90° elbow fittings, 30 or 60° fittings, pitless adapter, quick couplers, return or trap, tee, union, well cap, and wye.
When choosing pneumatic fittings, material type should be considered. Fittings can be made from a variety of materials including aluminum, brass or bronze, composite fiberglass or graphite, ceramic, copper, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), fluroresin, glass, cast or ductile iron, rubber or elastomer, polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), carbon or alloy steel, and stainless steel.
Special features are commonly available for pneumatic fittings, including: bulkhead fitting, bullhead fittings, expansion joint, flexibility, insulated and lined fittings, plated gas fittings, size reducing options, side outlets, swivel feature, and underground rated fittings.
Pneumatic bulkhead fittings are designed to be mounted in a wall or bulkhead to allow tube connections on either side of barrier. Bullhead fittings are in a T-shape, in which the branch port is larger than the run ports. Expansion joints and couplings connection sections of tube and allow for movement due to service load, shock, or thermal cycling.
Insulated, lined, and plated pneumatic fittings are also available. Insulated fittings contain insulated materials and jacket construction. Lined fittings are commonly for use in applications where cleanliness is important. The lining in these fittings are often made from engineered polymers. Plated fittings are available with nickel or chrome – for appearance or corrosion resistance purposes.
Pneumatic fittings may also be reducing, side outlet, swivel, or underground rated. Size-reducing fittings can collapse in side. Side outlet fittings have more than two connections, which are often placed on the side of the main component. Swivel pneumatic fittings allow one or more fitting ends to rotate of swivel. Underground rated gas fittings are designed and constructed for underground applications. Other, unlisted applications and features for pneumatic fittings may also be available.
|
