Hydraulic fittings are some of the most important components when using industrial equipment and machinery. They help to connect tubes, hoses, and pipes to valves, cylinders, pumps, and other parts of a hydraulic system. So, let's ask the big question, “What happens when you use the wrong fittings?”

The effect is likely to be a rapid decrease in the efficiency of your entire hydraulic system. If you are dealing with equipment that operates at very high pressure or works with harmful materials, it can easily degenerate into a safety issue. To help you avoid these challenges, you should ensure only the right fittings are selected. Keep reading to learn more about the common hydraulic fittings you can use with your facility.

A Brief Look at the Main Features of Hydraulic Fittings 

Hydraulic fittings integrate a lot of characteristics that give the required functions for their applications. Here are some of the common features:

• Expansion Joints and Couplings: These features are designed to allow movements because of shock, load, and heat cycles. 
• Fittings insulation: These are made using insulating jackets or overs that help to isolate the vessel from outside temperatures/ elements. 
• Connect-Under-Pressure Fittings: These are developed to be installed when the system is under pressure. No need to turn it off!
• Swivel: This function makes it possible to swivel/rotate several suitable ends. 
• Bulkhead Fittings: If you are working on a wall, the backhead fittings are installed on both ends of the wall. 

In addition to these features, it is also important to appreciate that the fittings can be made of different materials. Some of the common ones include brass, aluminum, steel, cast iron, and polypropylene.

The Main Types of Hydraulic Fittings 

Now that you know the main characteristic of hydraulic fittings, here are some of the common ones that you need to know about. Remember to also think about the application. For example, if your facility deals with human foods and beverages, fittings made of stainless steel, aluminum, or polypropylene might be the recommended option for enhanced food safety. So, here are the main types of fittings: 

• Flange fittings: These fittings include collars, edges, ribs, and ribs that are used to create flange joints. The surfaces are joined and sealed using welding, brazing, and bolts.

• Compression fittings: These fittings use rings, metal gaskets, or ferrules to create a compression seal on a hydraulic vessel. The compression is done using nuts or ferrules that press the piping into the fitting. 
• Bite-type-fittings: These fittings come with a sharp ferrule that bites the vessels to provide a seal when compressed.

• Flare Fittings: These fittings are made using flared ends. You need to use a flaring tool for installation inside the flare with a seal.

• Push-to-Connect Fittings: These fittings are designed with ends that support tubing by simply pushing into the end. The connections are very convenient for systems that require regular disconnection and reconnection. Often, the connection can be made by hand without requiring special tools.

• Threaded Fittings: These fittings are designed with screw threads either on the outer (male) or inner (female), or both. Some come with tapered threads to provide a better seal for gasses or fluids under pressure.

The fittings we have listed in this post are only part of the long list of what you can use in hydraulic systems. Others include plain ends fittings, clamp ends fittings, and crimp fittings. So, make sure to review your plumbing or hydraulic needs and only go for the right fitting type. You might also want to talk to an expert about the fitting to be sure of selecting the best model.