Types and Applications of Socket Weld Fittings
Socket weld fittings are a type of fitting that connects pipes, tubes, and other metal components. It is used to join or connect two or more pipes without welding. It has various sizes and combinations and styles to be considered. These are easy to use and install and are available in a variety of aluminum, plastic, steel, and copper.
Normally used in plumbing, this type of fitting may also be used in other applications that require limiting the flow of liquid or gas. SS Socket weld fittings made with socket weld can be placed directly into existing pipelines, making them suitable for new construction or maintenance.
There are two parts to a socket weld fitting: the coupling nut and the coupling nut cover. One end of the pipe is coupled with a coupling nut, and the other end is coupled with a coupling nut cap. An electric arc welder electrically melts through the outer layers of both components and fuses them at their center point once they are in place and ready for welding.
Common socket weld fittings include the following:
Socket weld flanges: The threaded and slip-on types of Socket Weld Flanges are different in their construction. Fittings with threaded holes are used when bolts or nuts must be used to secure them. There are no fasteners required to secure slip-on fittings.
Socket weld elbows: Because only one connecting point is required for socket weld elbows, they are easy to use. As a result, they can be used for a wide range of applications since their installation time is shortened.
Nipple reduction: Used to decrease the diameter of a pipe or tubing.
Straight nipple: A straight segment of pipe connecting two other sections of piping.
Tee: A fitting that allows you to separate flow in two directions at the same time.
Socket weld couplings: Two pipes of the same size are connected with socket weld couplings, their primary purpose being to create a waterproof seal between the two. Socket weld couplings are used in a variety of industries, including oil and gas, electricity, chemical and petrochemical facilities, and municipal water treatment and wastewater processing systems.
How to apply and install socket welding fittings:
Fittings with socket welds have a lower strength resistance than fittings with butt welds. Since fewer diameters can be accommodated by SW fittings, they are mostly used for smaller pipelines with NPS 3 or less.
Installation for SW fittings is quite simple, and it also allows for thermal expansion, since it usually leaves roughly a sixth of an inch of space at the bottom of the gap so that the socket can be accessed. Although this gap might not be problematic, it might overstress the fitting, cracking the fillet weld. In addition, socket welds that have been exposed to corrosive fluids have been found troublesome due to crevice corrosion.