How Compression Fittings Work

Plumbing Fittings

Introduction:

By definition a compression fitting is a type of fitting or coupling used to connect two pieces of pipes or a pipe to a fixture or valve. It consists of three parts; (1) the compression nut. (2) The compression ring. (3) The compression seat. The compression fittings are one of the greatest pluming fitting inventions in decades, especially for DIY homeowners. They are used extensively on copper tubing and PVC piping fittings.

How compression fittings work:

The nut is slid onto the pipe, followed by the compression ring. Then the pipe is slid into the fitting and the nut is tightened down. As the nut is tightened the compression ring is pressed into the seat, causing it to compress against the pipe and the compression nut, providing a watertight connection.

The advantages of compression fittings are in their ease of assembly and disassembly. Most homes have compression fittings in the kitchen, laundry room and bathrooms pressure. They are usually used on plumbing that may be disconnected from time to time to change an appliance such as a commode or bathroom sink.

Compression fittings are the DIY homeowners dream because of there convenience and ease of use. It makes the typical DIY plumbing tasks easy when replacing plumbing fixtures. There are some limitations as to where to use compression fittings.

Compression fittings should only be used on stationary connections where there is no movement or stress on the plumbing. The fitting is designed to inhibit the movement of the pipe outward from the fitting. Typically, a compression fitting is used to connect copper tubing. They are not recommended to be used for the lengthening of a pipe. If there is a chance that the compression connection will be subjected to any movement or impact it is recommended to use a solder connection instead.

Compression fittings are designed to be used only once although in some cases using it a second time will seal the connection. Always lubricate the ring and the threads on the compression nut before tightening, especially if you are reusing a fitting.

As a precaution do not over tighten the fitting. Once resistance is encountered tighten no more than an additional half turn. Test for leaks by turning on the water slightly. If there is leakage, turn the water back off and tighten the compression nut by no more than an additional quarter turn.

That is how compression fittings work. They are a great plumbing invention and if installed properly will last for decades.

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