A Comprehensive Guide to Bulkhead and Industrial Pipe Fittings

To create pipelines, components such as industrial pipe fittings are used to join pipe sections with fluid control products such as pumps and valves. Industrial pipe fittings come in a variety of forms, including for metal and plastic pipes that carry fluids. Others connect pipes for architectural elements that don’t require a leak-proof connection, such as handrails.

Depending on the material of the pipe, industrial pipe fittings may be:

• Welded or threaded
• Mechanically joined
• Chemically adhered

Terminology

With regard to the use of the terms, tube, pipe and tubing, inconsistencies can be confusing. Often, pipe fittings is used in the context of tubing. This is because industrial pipe fittings are similar in shape to tube fittings. However, they’re not generally joined by the same methods. Overlapping methods include the use of compression fittings. However, this is more commonly used for connecting tubing. It’s important to remember that terminology may differ between suppliers.

Typical Fittings 

There are a range of typical connection methods and fittings for pipes and piping.

Bulkhead Fittings 

Allowing the flow of plumbing connections, such as liquids in tank and drum drainage, bulkhead fittings are specifically designed for this purpose. Bulkhead fittings are also used with male adapters to attach flexible pipes. These fittings act as distribution outlets in piping systems and provide full water flow.

As a general rule, bulkhead fittings have left-handed threads. These ensure the fitting is kept tight during the installation process with the male adaptor. Bulkhead fittings are required for the removal of accessories and pumps. Therefore, they come with gaskets and nuts which may be purchased separately.

Durable materials are used for bulkhead fittings designed for pipes. They include:

• Brass
• Plastics
• PVC

Buying Bulkhead Fittings
There are many factors to consider when buying bulkhead fittings. Before buying them in bulk, it’s important to determine the thread size of the fitting. Determining the diameter is also crucial, due to the use of bulkhead fittings as distribution outlets in piping systems.

Another aspect to consider before buying them is the size of the fitting. This combines with the strength of the material used to ensure the quality of bulkhead fittings. Depending on the project, other considerations include the ease of adaptation and installation.

Advantages of Bulkhead Fittings
One of the main advantages of bulkhead fittings is that they offer a watertight seal for plastic pipes. Furthermore, plastic fittings are useful in removing leakage and stress cracks. While allowing for the free flow of liquids in drum or tank drainage, bulkhead fittings are also useful as outlets for distribution into piping systems.

Types of Bulkhead Fittings
Select from a variety of bulkhead fittings. They include:

• Standard threaded bulkhead fittings are threaded on the outer side of both ends and the inner side of the front end.
• Double threaded bulkhead fittings are threaded on the front and back.
• Slip bulkhead fittings are ideal for adapting an overflow or a flow-through opening. PVC fittings or pipe can attach to both ends of these.

Pipe Caps 

Otherwise known as plugs, heads or bulkheads, pipe caps are industrial pipe fittings. They are installed on the external thread of a pipe end for the purpose of covering the pipes. Alternatively, they’re welded on the pipe end. As pipe caps are used to close a pipeline, they perform the same function as a pipe plug. Different manufacturing processes are used. These include forging and casting with the use of steel ingots or round bars for heating, then melting them for pouring into a fixed hoop model.

Buying Pipe Caps
Pipe cap materials typically include carbon steel, stainless steel, alloy steel, PVC and plastic. Consider the connection methods required. Pipe cap connection methods include socket weld and threaded connection. Determine which shape is required, such as a round head cap or hex head cap. Applicable manufacturing standards are ASME B16.11 and ASME B16.9.

Advantages of Pipe Caps
With regard to applications, pipe caps perform as a protective device. They’re designed to protect the pipe ends of a variety of shapes. Waterproofing connections is the main purpose of pipe caps, however, they also have other uses. Pipe caps can close the ends of pneumatic or hydraulic tubes and pipes. They’re used in domestic, commercial and industrial plumbing for water supply lines and processing equipment. Pipe caps are also fitted on water pump lines for the removal of air blocks.

 

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