Push fit pipe fittings are a type of plumbing fitting that is designed to provide a secure, reliable, and leak free connection between pipes without the need for any additional tools or materials. These fittings are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, brass, and stainless steel, and they are commonly used in a wide range of plumbing applications, including water supply systems, heating systems, and gas pipelines.
In this article, we will explore how push fit pipe fittings work and how they ensure a leak free connection. We will also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of push fit pipe fittings and the different types of push fit pipe fittings that are available.
Overview of Push Fit Pipe Fittings
Push fit pipe fittings, also known as push to connect fittings, are a type of plumbing fitting that connects pipes together without the need for any additional tools or materials. These fittings are designed to be quick and easy to install, and they provide a secure, reliable, and leak free connection.
Push fit pipe fittings are made up of three main components : a body, a locking clip, and an O ring or gasket. The body of the fitting is typically made from plastic or brass, and it contains one or more barbs that grip the inside of the pipe to create a secure connection. The locking clip is also made from plastic or brass, and it is used to hold the pipe in place once it has been inserted into the fitting. The O ring or gasket is located inside the fitting and provides a watertight seal between the fitting and the pipe.
How Push Fit Pipe Fittings Work
Push fit pipe fittings work by creating a secure connection between two pipes without the need for any additional tools or materials. The process of installing a push fit pipe fitting is relatively simple and straightforward, and it can be done by anyone with a basic understanding of plumbing.
To install a push fit pipe fitting, the first step is to cut the pipe to the required length using a pipe cutter or saw. It is important to ensure that the end of the pipe is clean and free from any burrs or rough edges that could damage the O ring or gasket inside the fitting.
Next, the pipe is inserted into the body of the fitting. The barbs inside the fitting grip the inside of the pipe, creating a secure connection. It is important to ensure that the pipe is fully inserted into the fitting, as this will ensure that the O ring or gasket creates a watertight seal.
Once the pipe is inserted into the fitting, the locking clip is pushed down over the end of the fitting, holding the pipe in place. The locking clip ensures that the pipe cannot be pulled out of the fitting, providing a secure and reliable connection.
Advantages of Push Fit Pipe Fittings
There are several advantages to using push fit pipe fittings in plumbing applications. Some of the main advantages include :
Ease of Installation : One of the main advantages of push fit pipe fittings is that they are quick and easy to install. Unlike traditional plumbing fittings, which require additional tools and materials, push fit pipe fittings can be installed using only your hands.
No Soldering or Welding : Another advantage of push fit pipe fittings is that they do not require any soldering or welding. This makes them a popular choice for DIY plumbing projects, as they can be installed without the need for any specialist skills or equipment.
No Risk of Fire : Because push fit pipe fittings do not require any soldering or welding, there is no risk of fire or heat damage to the surrounding area. This makes them a safer option for plumbing applications.
Leak Free Connections : Push fit pipe fittings are designed to provide a secure and reliable connection between pipes, with no risk of leaks or drips. This makes them a popular choice for water supply systems, heating systems, and gas pipelines
