In our last article Pipes and Bends – An Essential Guide for Second Engineers – Part 2 we discussed about bends, elbows and miter bends. In this article we will discuss about different types of pipe fittings found on ships.
Pipe Fittings
Pipe fittings are special parts that are used for joining two pipes together, to join a different size pipe to the existing piping, to regulate flow of fluid, etc.
Different types of pipe fittings are nipples, coupling, adapter, plugs, elbows, tees, valves etc. All the fittings are discussed below.
Nipple
A nipple is basically a pipe with male threads on each side to facilitate joining two pipes or fittings with similar female threads.
It is made by cutting threads on both sides of a pipe by die or a suitable process. The nipples may be short or long.
Long Pipe Nipple
A long pipe nipple is similar to a standard nipple but longer in length.
It is used when there is more distance between the fittings or when a fitting like a valve is to be put at a distance.
Hexagonal Nipple
A hexagonal nipple is a pipe connector with male threads on both sides and a hexagonal nut in between for easy installation and screwing.
Both sides are to be screwed in pipe or fitting having reciprocating female threads.
Hexagonal Reducer Nipple
A hexagonal reducer nipple is a hexagonal shaped nipple with two different sizes of threads on each side.
The purpose of the hexagonal reducer nipple is to connect the pipes of two different sizes together
Hexagonal Long Nipple
A hexagonal long nipple is used where the distance between the pipe and the fittings is to be joined.
They are otherwise similar to the hexagonal nipples apart from the length.
Close Nipple
A close nipple is completely threaded and there is no unthreaded area.