15mm compression fitting is a type of plumbing fitting used to join two sections of pipe together or connect a pipe to a fixture, like a tap or valve. Compression fittings are popular in plumbing because they create a secure and watertight connection without the need for soldering, threading, or other more permanent methods.
Key Features of 15mm Compression Fittings:
Size:
Designed for pipes with an outer diameter of 15mm, which is a common size in domestic plumbing systems, especially in the UK and Europe.
Components:
Body: The main part of the fitting, typically made of brass or copper.
Olive (Ferrule): A small ring that fits around the pipe and is compressed to create a seal when the nut is tightened.
Nut: A threaded ring that, when tightened, compresses the olive around the pipe to form a secure and watertight seal.
Types:
Straight Coupling: Connects two pipes in a straight line.
Elbow: Joins two pipes at a 90-degree angle.
Tee: Connects three pipes, allowing the flow to branch in two directions.
Stop End: Caps off the end of a pipe.
Reducing Coupling: Joins pipes of different diameters.
Materials:
Most 15mm compression fittings are made from brass, which is durable and resistant to corrosion.
Some may also be chrome-plated for aesthetic purposes or additional corrosion resistance.
Installation:
Cut the pipe cleanly, ensuring no burrs are present.
Slide the nut onto the pipe, followed by the olive.
Insert the pipe into the fitting body.
Tighten the nut with a spanner or wrench, compressing the olive between the pipe and fitting to create a seal.
Check for leaks and tighten further if necessary.
Applications:
Commonly used in domestic plumbing for connecting water supply lines to taps, valves, and other fixtures.
Suitable for both hot and cold water systems.
Advantages:
Easy to install and remove without specialized tools.
No need for heat or soldering, reducing the risk of fire during installation.
Can be used with copper, plastic, or sometimes even steel pipes.
15mm compression fittings are versatile and reliable components in plumbing systems, offering a straightforward solution for many common plumbing tasks.
