Compression Fittings – What are they?
Compressing one of the fitting’s components into another, generally, some form of tubing, to establish a watertight seal between two distinct lines is called a compression fitting. As quick-connect type fittings have become more common in the water treatment industry, compression fittings have lost favor. However, they remain excellent fittings, capable of withstanding high pressure and providing a tight seal. When the nut compresses the sleeve into the fitting body, it provides a seal to the fitting. When the sleeve and nut are screwed together, they form a compression fitting.
Compression fittings are composed of what materials?
Brass is the most commonly used material for compression tube fittings. These fittings can be produced in a variety of materials, including plastic and stainless steel. The degree to which this fitting can withstand pressure or temperature depends on the material that makes up your fitting.
Uses of Compression Fittings:
There are several different uses for compression fittings. A compression fitting is used to connect a water line, airline, pneumatic line, or a quick-connect or quick-disconnect fitting is used when you are just connecting drinking water systems.
A compression thread is represented by the angle stop under your sink. To connect to a coffee brewer, these flex lines frequently employ compression threads. There is usually a tap connection on one side of the faucet stud and an angle-stop thread on the other side, which is the compression stud. To attach tubing to the angle stop, it’s simply a matter of using a compression nut and sleeve.
Is your compression fitting leaking? What should you do?
The leaking should be figured out from where the leak is coming from. A fitting is unlikely to leak if the connection is sound, the fitting has been assembled correctly, and it has been tightened. When the tubing is not altered, the seal should be complete and tight unless pressure is applied to the fitting.
When this type of fitting leaks, you should turn off the water to stop it. The fitting would then need to be disassembled and reassembled once you have inspected it for any flaws. After reassembling, your leak should stop. If not, you may have to replace the fitting, or a section of it, together with the tubing attached.