Can you use compression fittings on stainless steel pipe?
Can you use compression fittings on stainless steel pipe?
Compression fittings are most commonly used with hard tubing because the tubing wall must be rigid enough to resist the compression forces applied by the ferrule. Common choices include metallic tubing (such as stainless steel or copper) and stiff plastic tubing (such as PEEK, nylon, Teflon®, Kynar®, or polyethylene).
Can you use brass compression fittings on stainless steel?
Using brass fittings on stainless steel tubing is not recommended. Brass is softer than steel and may not seal onto the tubing as well, risking leaks. You might also see galvanic corrosion, which is a process where the corrosion is accelerated by 2 dissimilar metals contacting one another.
Do compression fittings fail?
Unlike threaded fittings, compression fittings can seal properly but nevertheless slip out of position as a result of forces on a pipe. Analysis of the evidence suggests that the underlying cause of the failure was improper repair of a water pipe.
Why does my compression fitting leak?
If the pipe gets bent back and forth, the compression fitting could eventually spring a leak. Another thing that’ll you’ll want to avoid is using a double compression fitting to lengthen a pipe unless you’re using it under your kitchen sink. Over tightening a compression fitting can also cause the fitting to leak.
Can you use stainless and brass fittings together?
When it comes to stainless steel (301, 304 and 310) and brass, they are only two metals apart, which means they can be safely connected together with minimal risk of galvanic corrosion.
What happens if you over tighten a compression fitting?
If the pipe is clean and cut properly, compression fittings work well. In the trade, it’s said to not over tighten a compression fitting, leaving you more thread in the case of a leak. After hand tightening a nut will need one whole turn.
What is the most common cause of leaking compression fittings?
Over tightening is the most common cause of a leaking compression fitting.
Should you use Teflon tape on compression fittings?
NEVER! Do not use tape on compression or flare threads or union joints. No water touches those threads. Tape could keep the fitting from tightening properly.
