The Ultimate Buyer's Guide for Purchasing Overhead Line Fittings Supplier

05 Jun.,2025

 

What To Consider Before Buying Hydraulic Hose Fittings | Hyspeco

Hydraulic hose fittings may seem like a small component in a much bigger system, but their importance is monumental. They play a critical role in ensuring your hydraulic system is safe, efficient, and reliable. Making the right choice for your fittings isn’t just about picking a connector off the shelf—it’s about considering various factors to ensure compatibility, performance, and long-term success. With our helpful advice, you’ll know what to consider before buying hydraulic hose fittings.

Check now

Compatibility With Existing Systems

The first step is ensuring the fittings are compatible with your existing hydraulic system. A mismatch in fitting style or threading can lead to leakage, system failures, and wasted money. The sizing and type of fitting isn’t the only factor in question. You must also consider the thread type, which could vary depending on the manufacturer or industry standard:

  • Thread compatibility: Hydraulic fittings come in various thread types, such as NPT, BSP, SAE, or metric. Thread type mismatches can lead to improper sealing.
  • System design: Does your system use straight-thread or tapered-thread fittings? Consider this carefully before making a choice.
  • Fluid type: Ensure your chosen fitting material is chemically compatible with the fluids your hydraulic system uses. Some fittings may degrade when exposed to specific fluids.

Double-check manufacturer recommendations and specifications before settling on a purchase to ensure seamless integration.

2. Material Quality Matters

Not all hydraulic fittings are created equal. The materials used to manufacture fittings significantly influence their durability, performance, and cost-efficiency. The most used materials include:

  • Carbon steel: Popular for its strength and affordability, carbon steel is commonly used in general-purpose applications. However, it might not be suitable for environments with high corrosion risks.
  • Stainless steel: Known for its corrosion resistance, stainless steel fittings are ideal for harsh or marine environments where exposure to chemicals, moisture, or saltwater is a concern.
  • Brass: Brass fittings are resistant to corrosion and widely used in low-pressure systems, but they lack the strength required for high-pressure applications.
  • Composite materials (for example, plastic or polymer): Lightweight and corrosion-resistant, these fittings are suitable for certain specialized applications but may lack durability under extreme pressures or temperatures.

Prioritize materials that align with your operating environment and hydraulic system needs.

3. Understanding Pressure Ratings

Hydraulic systems operate under pressure, and your fittings must be able to handle it. Always choose fittings with a pressure rating that meets or exceeds your system’s requirements. Working pressure should be well below the fitting’s burst pressure to ensure safety. A mismatch in pressure ratings can compromise your system’s integrity, potentially leading to costly or even dangerous outcomes.

4. Temperature Tolerance

Temperature swings can significantly impact the performance of your fittings. Hydraulic systems may encounter extreme heat or cold. The materials you select must withstand both the environmental conditions and the temperature of the fluid inside. Stainless steel and other specialized alloys often excel in extreme temperature applications, offering the durability required to maintain system efficiency.

5. Application-Specific Needs

Not all hydraulic systems are used for the same purposes, so application-specific needs should always guide your decision. For example, high-pressure systems in industrial machinery will require robust fittings capable of withstanding intense demands. Meanwhile, agricultural equipment may prioritize ease of replacement and cost-effectiveness.

Think about the functions your hydraulic system must perform. Will it involve exposure to chemicals? Will the system endure frequent vibrations or sudden movements? By defining your system’s unique challenges, you can focus on fittings designed to meet them effectively.

6. Precision Sizing and Fit

The size and type of the fitting will impact your system’s overall efficiency. Selecting a fitting with the wrong size or dimensions can cause delays, leakage, and inconsistent flow rates. Familiarize yourself with key sizing details, such as:

  • diameter of the hose or piping
  • thread size for proper connections
  • length of the fitting, especially for complex assemblies
  • space considerations, particularly in tight setups where larger fittings might not fit

Take accurate measurements before purchasing, and consult sizing charts to avoid errors.

7. Importance of Industry Standards

Industry certifications are an essential indicator of quality. Fittings that meet ISO or SAE standards are generally reliable, safe, and compatible with commonly used system components. Choosing fittings that adhere to these benchmarks ensures your system’s longevity and minimizes the potential for errors stemming from substandard products.

8. Impact of Environmental Conditions

Fittings don’t operate in a vacuum—the surrounding environment can heavily influence their durability and performance. For example, fittings used in wet or humid climates should provide rust resistance, while systems exposed to saltwater demand corrosion-resistant materials like stainless steel. Dusty or sandy environments benefit from tight-sealing fittings to prevent contamination.

Addressing these considerations will help you select fittings that thrive in your specific operating conditions.

9. Evaluating Suppliers

A reliable supplier can make a world of difference when purchasing hydraulic hose fittings. Look for companies with a proven track record, robust product offerings, and strong customer support.

Suppliers who specialize in hydraulic hose assemblies often provide a wider range of compatible fittings, ensuring you can source all necessary components from one trusted provider. This can save you time and prevent costly mistakes. Don’t hesitate to check reviews or talk to other customers to confirm a supplier’s reputation before committing.

10. Consult Experts When in Doubt

Pipe Fitting Buying Guide - Lowe's

Types of Piping Systems

Most homes built since the mid-s have plastic pipes and fittings, which are rated by the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). Plastic pipes can be used for pressurized applications, such as potable (drinking) water systems, hot- and cold-water distribution, and irrigation systems. They can also be used for nonpressurized applications (gravity flow), such as sewage, drainage and storm drain systems. Homes built prior to used galvanized steel or cast-iron pipes for drain/waste/vent (DWV) systems. DWV systems remove wastewater and prevent the flow of sewer gases into homes. The most common types of plumbing pipes used in homes today are copper and polyvinyl chloride (PVC), both of which are strong, long lasting and easy to install. Other choices include chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) and PEX pipe.

Copper Pipes vs. CPVC Pipes

Whether copper or CPVC piping should be used to deliver a home’s drinking water will vary from home to home. Here are some pointers to help you determine the best choice:

  • Water Types: In many areas, particularly those without municipal water sources, the acidity of the home’s water may be a factor in choosing the right types of plumbing pipes. Highly acidic water can break down copper pipes over time and cause green staining in fixtures. Although passive water filters can deal with acidity, they must be recharged every year or so. Because of this, owners sometimes opt for acid-indifferent CPVC piping.
  • Installation Time: CPVC must not be pressured for 24 hours after installation to allow the pipe adhesive to set properly. Copper can be used within minutes of installation.

PEX Pipes

PEX pipes differ from traditional rigid pipes in one obvious way: They’re flexible. This makes it easier to snake them to different areas of a home. Using PEX piping may require running more pipe, but it also involves fewer fittings. PEX crimp tools offer a simple way to make these flexible fittings more secure and watertight.

Here are a few other advantages of PEX:

  • It’s quieter than rigid piping.
  • It has a smooth interior that resists scale buildup and corrosion, which can affect pipe flow over time.
  • It’s freeze-break resistant, although not freeze-proof. PEX tools, such as specialty expansion kits, will enhance this benefit by absorbing dimensional changes caused by thermal expansions/contractions.
  • PEX systems have appealing installation costs compared to rigid materials.
  • PEX piping is often used in green buildings, installed either as a remote manifold or plumbing system.

PEX pipe and crimp fittings, with all their benefits, do have a drawback: Because UV exposure causes a reaction with polyethylene, it isn’t suitable for outdoor use. The maximum level of UV exposure is typically no more than 60 days, but this varies by manufacturer. Using PEX for underground water supplies isn’t ideal, even if UV exposure is decreased.

Goto ZheXi to know more.

Tip

Have PEX specialty tools on hand to ensure you can make full use of PEX piping advantages.

Materials for DWV Pipes

  • Cast-iron pipe and fittings (black)
  • PVC Schedule 40 (SCH 40) DWV pipe and fittings (white; used in irrigation, underground sprinkler systems, swimming pools, outdoor applications and cold-water supply lines)
  • Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) DWV pipe and fittings (black, common in the western US)

Materials for Pressurized Systems

  • PVC Schedule 40 (SCH 40) pipe and fittings (white; straight, angular turns; designed for potable water under pressure into buildings)
  • Copper tube size (CTS) chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe and fittings (cream or tan, used for hot or cold water, sized similarly to copper pipe sizes)
  • PVC Schedule 80 (SCH 80) pipe and fittings (dark gray, withstand higher pressure, designed for the distribution of pressurized liquids)

PVC SCH 40 DWV Pipe and PVC DWV Fittings for Nonpressurized Applications

PVC DWV fittings can be installed with foam core pipe or dual-marked solid wall pipe. ASTM F 891-rated foam core pipe is lighter and less expensive. Solid wall PVC pipe is often rated for both pressurized (ASTM D ) and nonpressurized (ASTM D ) applications (often referred to as dual marked). When solid wall or foam core pipe is used with PVC DWV fittings, the resulting system isn’t pressure rated.

Description

  • White, rigid pipe and fittings
  • Joined with solvent cement, conforming to applicable ASTM standards
  • Have a gradual, sanitary turn

Application

  • Draining household sanitary waste (kitchen, bathroom) and groundwater
  • Not for pressurized applications or compressed air/gases

Joining Method

  • Solvent cements must meet ASTM D standard
  • Primer is required
  • May be joined with a slip-joint compression fitting (a trap adapter)
  • Threading PVC 40 pipe isn’t recommended
  • Male iron pipe (MIP) and female iron pipe (FIP) size adapters are available

PVC SCH 40 Pipe and Fittings for Pressurized Applications

Description

  • White, rigid pipe and fittings
  • Joined with solvent cement, conforming to ASTM D standard
  • Straight, angular turns
  • Not for gradual sanitary turns for pressure systems

Application

  • Distributing potable water under pressure into a building (not to be used inside)
  • Irrigation and sprinkler systems
  • Draining condensate waste from heating and air conditioning systems
  • Not for compressed air or gases

Joining Method

  • Solvent cements must meet ASTM D standard
  • Primer required
  • May be flanged with SCH 80 flanges
  • Threading PVC 40 pipe isn’t recommended
  • MIP and FIP adapters are available

PVC SCH 80 Pipe and Fittings for Pressurized Applications

Description

  • Dark gray, rigid pipe and fittings
  • Joined with solvent cement conforming to ASTM D standard
  • Straight, angular turns must be used

Application

  • Distributing pressurized liquids
  • Can be used in industrial applications
  • Not for use with compressed air or gases

Joining Method

  • Solvent cements must meet ASTM D
  • Primer should be iron pipe size (IPS) P-70 or Oatey Industrial Grade
  • May be flanged with SCH 80 flanges
  • Threading PVC 80 pipe can be done
  • MIP and FIP adapters are available

ABS Foam Core SCH 40 DWV Pipe and ABS DWV Fittings for Nonpressurized Applications

Description

  • Black, rigid pipe and fittings
  • Joined with solvent cement conforming to ASTM D standard
  • Fittings have a gradual sanitary turn

Application

  • Draining household sanitary waste (kitchen, bathroom) and groundwater
  • Not for use with pressurized applications or compressed air/gases

Joining Method

  • Solvent cements must meet ASTM D standard
  • Primer isn’t recommended
  • May be joined with a slip-joint compression fitting (a trap adapter)
  • Threading ABS-40 foam core pipe isn’t recommended
  • MIP and FIP adapters are available

CTS CPVC Pipe and Fittings for Pressurized Hot- and Cold-Water Applications

Description

  • Cream or tan, rigid pipe (with a gold stripe) and fittings
  • Joined with solvent cement conforming to ASTM F 493 standard

Applications

  • Distributing hot and cold potable water under pressure
  • Not for use with compressed air or gases

Joining Method

  • Solvent cements must meet ASTM F 493 standard
  • Yellow FlowGuard Gold cements may be used without primer, where approved by code
  • Compression fittings with a brass ferrule may be used
  • Threading the pipe isn’t recommended; use CTS CPVC male adapters in cold-water applications only; use CTS CPVC brass-threaded transition fittings for hot-water applications
Caution

Don’t use compression fittings with brass ferrules to connect to CTS CPVC pipe or fittings where water temperatures exceed 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Choosing Correct Pipe Sizes

Plumbing beginners often purchase pipes that are too small. To avoid this mistake, it’s helpful to understand the difference between actual measurements and nominal measurements. The word “nominal” roughly means “in name only.” For example, if you need a pipe that has an actual diameter of 1/2 inch, the one you purchase may not be labeled as a 1/2-inch pipe.

Next, identify what kind of plumbing pipe you’re using. Copper, plastic/steel and cast-iron pipes all require different sizing conversions. Knowing your piping material will help you convert your pipe’s nominal measurement to its actual measurement.

Nominal copper pipe sizes are 1/8 inch less than the outer-diameter measurement. Cast-iron pipes’ nominal sizes are around 1/3 inch less than their outer-diameter measurement. Plastic and steel pipes’ nominal sizes use the same conversion and are around 1/3 inch less than their outer-diameter measurement.

For more Overhead Line Fittings Supplierinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.

Related Tags: