Types of pipe coupling: Pipe Fittings

A pipe coupling or coupler has an application to join or connect the pipe section. Different types of pipe coupling are available to join pipes. Each type has its applications. Sometimes pipe couplers are also used with adhesives or gaskets to join pipes.

What are various types of Pipe Coupling?

Pipe Coupling is a type of pipe fitting used to connect or join equal or different diameter pipe sections.

Internal pipe threads, socket type arrangement, or a provision for soldering, brazing, or Welding are available to join pipe-section using coupling.

Applications of Coupling used in Pipes?

Coupling pipes have the following applications.

  1. Connect equal or different diameter pipes to increase overall pipe length.
  2. Pipe couplings are required to connect broken pipes or in leakage sections.
  3. To join different diameter pipes.

Materials used in Pipe Coupling?

Following materials are used to manufacture pipe coupler.

  • PVC
  • Aluminum
  • Brass
  • Copper
  • Bronze
  • Stainless Steel

Various types of Pipe Coupling?

The following types of pipe coupling are available in the market according to their construction and working principle.

  • According to Construction
    • Full coupling
    • Half coupling
  • According to Working
    • Compression Coupling
    • Slip Coupling
  • According to Type of Application
    • Reducer Coupling
    • Permanent Pipe Coupling
    • Removable pipe Coupler
  • According to Pipe Coupling Material
    • PVC Pipe Coupling
    • Rubber Pipe Coupling
    • Flexible Pipe Coupling
    • Carbon Steel Pipe Coupling
    • Stainless Steel Pipe Coupling

We will discuss all to above pipe coupler in detail.

Full Coupling
this image shows Full Threaded Pipe Coupling

Various types of full coupling are available as per ASME B16.11 and ASTM A182 SS standards to connect 1/8 inch to 4-inch pipes. These coupling can be threaded or socket end type.

Half Coupling
this image shows Half Threaded Pipe Coupling

Half coupling is a type of connector used to join two pipes or pipes with other accessories. One end of the half coupling is threaded or has a socket. Whereas another end of the coupling is connected to the pipe using welding.

Compression Coupling
This image shows Compression Coupling

Compression coupling is a type of coupling used to connect aligned pipes or pipes with other pipe fittings. In this, a slotted tapered sleeve is placed over the junction of pipes, coupling and two flanges are brought over the sleeve to provide the required contact pressure.

Slip Coupling

Slip couplings are easy to install coupling consisting of two pipes arranged in such way that the inner pipe can slide up to some required length.

this image shows Slip pipe Coupling

To repair leakage in a pipe, firstly pipe is cut up to the required length. Afterward, slip coupling one end with stop is inserted in one end of the pipe, and the opposite end freely slides over the other end of the pipe. In this way, pipe leakage is repaired.

Reducer Coupling
This Image shows Reducer Coupling

Reducer coupling or pipe reducer consists of different sizes of threads or sockets at two ends. They are used to reduce the flow of liquid from a larger pipe to a smaller pipe.

Permanent Coupling

In permanent pipe couplings, the metal coupling is joined with pipe using soldering or brazing, whereas adhesives are used to join PVC pipe with the coupling.

Removable Pipe Coupling

In removable pipe couplings, pipes and couplings are connected using threaded joints or socket type of arrangement.

Selection of Pipe Coupling

Correct pipe coupling selection is necessary because wrong pipe-fittings can cause leakage. That can increase the maintenance cost and reduce life. Users should consider the following points before pipe coupling selection.

  1. Type of Tubing: Rigid or Flexible
  2. Compatibility of tubing Material with coupling material.
  3. Working temperature and pressure
  4. Chemical resistance
  5. Joint type: temporary or permanent
  6. Coupling Size
  7. Working condition: Compatibility with indoor or outdoor use.
  8. Safety Rating
  9. Ease of installation.
  10. Alignment requirements
Frequently Asked Questions: FAQ

A pipe coupling is a type of permanent fitting to join two or more pipes. Whereas union is not a type of permanent joint. A union is added to the piping system for service, replacement, or repair.

To join two or more pipes.

We will keep adding more information on various types of pipe coupling. Please add your suggestions, comments, or questions on types of pipe coupling and their applications in the comment box. We suggest you also read this article on various types of mechanical couplings.

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