Specialty Fittings

Sanitary Fittings

Sanitary tube fittings, often referred to as hygienic fittings, are specialized components used in industries where maintaining cleanliness and preventing contamination is paramount. These fittings are designed for applications involving the processing and transportation of sensitive substances such as food, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology products, and cosmetics.

The primary purpose of sanitary tube fittings is to create a smooth, easily cleanable, and airtight connection between tubes or pipes. Typically made from stainless steel, sanitary fittings come in a few different types including clamp, weld, threaded, I-line and bevel set fittings. With sanitary fittings, gaskets are used to make a secure, leak-proof connection between clamp fittings and are usually made from materials like silicone or Viton, which are food-grade and resistant to various chemicals and temperatures.

Vacuum Fittings

Vacuum tube fittings, also known as vacuum flanges and fittings, are specialized components used in vacuum systems and equipment to create airtight connections between vacuum chambers, pumps, valves, and other components. These fittings are designed to maintain a high vacuum or ultra-high vacuum environment by preventing the entry of air or other gasses into the system.

Commonly made from stainless steel, aluminum or ceramics, vacuum fittings come in a few types including KF, CF, ISO’s, VCR/VCO’s, Non-welded and more. Different fittings have different sealing mechanisms including o-ring seals or metal seals. Vacuum systems are used in a wide range of applications, including scientific research, semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace, and various industrial processes.

Packing Injection

Packing injection fittings, also known as gland injection fittings or packing injection glands, are specialized components used in industrial machinery to control and maintain the lubrication, cooling, or sealing of rotating or reciprocating shafts and stems. These fittings are commonly found in pumps, valves, compressors, and other mechanical systems.

The primary function of packing injection fittings is to introduce a controlled flow of lubricant or sealant into the packing or sealing element to reduce friction, dissipate heat, and extend the component’s lifespan. The choice of lubricant or sealant depends on the specific application and operating conditions but the most common are sealant compounds, oil or grease.

Grease Fittings

Grease fittings, also known as grease nipples or zerk fittings, are small mechanical components used to apply grease to specific points in machinery and equipment to act as a lubricant. They play a crucial role in maintaining the proper functioning and longevity of various mechanical components, such as bearings, bushings, joints, and other moving parts that require regular lubrication.

While its primary function in lubrication, these fittings can also act as a sealant since grease can prevent contaminants such as dust, dirt, and moisture from entering critical components as well as a coolant since in some cases, grease also aids in dissipating heat generated by friction within moving parts, preventing overheating and potential damage.  Grease fittings are commonly used in various industries and applications like automotive, mining, construction, manufacturing and more.

NAVSEA & AN

Specialty tube fittings are specialized components used in various industries and applications where standard tube fittings may not suffice due to specific requirements, challenging conditions, or unique design considerations. These fittings are engineered to meet distinct needs and are often designed for specific functions or environments.

A few examples of specialty fittings are AN and NAVSEA fittings, AN tube fittings, also known as Army-Navy fittings, are a standardized type of tube fitting primarily used in the aerospace and automotive industries. The term “AN” stands for “Army-Navy” and originates from a joint standardization effort between the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy during World War II. AN fittings were developed to establish uniformity and interchangeability of fluid connectors and fittings for military aircraft and vehicles.

AN fittings have become popular in racing and high-performance automotive circles due to their reliability, precise sizing, and robust construction. They provide a secure and leak-resistant connection even under high-pressure conditions. While AN fittings were initially developed for military use, they have found applications in various industries where the performance and durability of fluid connections are critical.

NAVSEA pipe fittings refer to pipe fittings that are compliant with specifications and standards set forth by the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) in the United States Navy. These standards are put in place to ensure the safety and effectiveness of naval vessels and equipment in often challenging and critical operational environments.

These fittings are typically made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, brass, or other corrosion-resistant materials, to ensure they can withstand the harsh marine environment and meet the longevity and performance requirements set by the NAVSEA.