What Are Types of Pneumatic Fittings?

As many of you are probably familiar, a pneumatic system is any system that relies on pressurized air or gas. In order to drive actions, air or gas typically travels through a series of pipes, hoses, and/or tubes similar to the flow of liquids through hydraulic systems. Connecting to one another and various components in the system, these network channels require airtight seals to maintain leak-free joints. As such, a pneumatic fitting works to establish a tight connection between the components of a pneumatic system. With applications in virtually all industries, pneumatic systems range in their specific channel types, so a vast array of pneumatic fittings are available for procurement depending on the characteristics of their applications. For your better knowledge, we will explore some popular types of pneumatic fittings.

There are a number of important factors to consider when procuring a pneumatic fitting, some of which include the following: tubing types, pressure conditions, thread types, materials, approvals required, and vibration concerns. The three main types of tubing are hoses, tubes, and pipes. Hoses are flexible and the fittings used with them are typically not permanent because they are often replaced due to wear. Meanwhile, tubes and pipes are relatively rigid components made of one solid material; however, the fittings used for tubes are often matched to their outer diameter, while the fittings used for pipes are often characterized by their inner diameter.

Depending on your needs, a pneumatic fitting may be used to extend or terminate channels, to change direction of flow, or to connect channels of two different sizes. Typical pneumatic fittings connect parts through standard compression fittings, meaning they rely on compression and no additional tools to seal a fitting. This includes male and female threaded fittings. Other design types include bite-type fittings, mechanical grip fittings, flare fittings, hi-duty fittings for high-pressure applications, and many other connection methods. While some designs require clamping or biting, others are simply “push-to-connect.” Although all methods create tight seals, those that require no additional tools or change in shape are typically best for applications where fittings must be frequently removed.

Popular materials for pneumatic fittings include metals, plastics, and composites. Typically, metal fittings are aluminum, brass, steel, or stainless steel, each boasting durability and resistance to corrosion, high temperatures, and more. These properties are not exclusive to metals, and they can also be found in plastics like fluororesins, polypropylene, and more. Composites like fiberglass, carbon, and graphite can also be useful. These materials have high melting points and are construction materials for applications that need high-temperature durability and chemical resistance. They also display thermal conductivity.

During operation, the pressure and temperature ranges will determine which designs you can choose from. Pressure range is typically measured in psi, and operating above or below the desired psi may cause leakage or other system failures. Similarly, operating outside of the desired temperature range can also lead to system failures. A final important factor to consider is whether you require any approvals for use, those of which include fittings that are UL listed for flammable liquid, SAE J-512 compliant, and more.

As these components prevent the loss of pressurized air or gas across channels, pneumatic fittings are useful components for increasing the efficiency of systems across a myriad of industries. For your varying needs, we at Stacked Industrials have you covered with access to all of the top quality pneumatic fittings you require. As we are owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we guarantee that all items that comprise our inventory of over 2 billion new, used, obsolete, and hard-to-find components have been vetted for fit and function. Operating with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation, in tandem with a strict No China Sourcing policy, make us your trusted procurement partner today!

To begin, simply submit an Instant Request for Quote (RFQ) form with as much relevant detail as possible, including shipping deadlines, target prices, and desired quantities. Our team of market professionals will use this information to formulate a custom quotation for your comparisons within 15 minutes or less, guaranteed. To learn more about our products or to receive one-on-one assistance, contact us at any time via phone or email; we are readily available to help, 24/7x365.