Air compressor fittings are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance and repair. However, there are a few things that air compressor users should know about these seemingly simple pieces of equipment. Today we’re going to talk about the things you need to know about air compressor fittings!
What are air compressor fittings?
These fittings make up the connection between hoses and valves. The most common type of fitting is for connecting hoses or pipes together. These fittings can be either male or female, depending on which way they connect with other parts in the system. On some compressors, one end will have male threads while the other has female threads because both ends need to be able to attach easily.
Other types of fittings are used for gauges and valves. The male end of this type fitting screws into a valve or gauge while the female side attaches to another part, such as an air hose.
Air compressor fittings sizes
The sizes for air compressor fittings include ¼ inch, ½ inch and ¾ inch. These are the most common sizes that you will find used by professionals in industrial settings, but there is also a wide range of other fittings available for home use as well.
Most air compressor hoses connect to these types of fitting with either an adapter or another type of connector such as compression fittings on rubber air hoses.
If you are using a compressor with an oil free pump, then the ½ inch size should be suitable for most people as this is what will typically come attached to your unit when it arrives at home or work.
Types of air compressor fittings
Bolted
This fittings has the ability to clamp between two lengths of pipe and will not need gasket support. This type of fitting is also known as standard bolt on fitting, for this reason it is often used in non-pressurized applications.
Female threaded
A very common type of air compressor fittings that has an inner tube that can thread onto a release nipple. The female threaded end has a hole for use with an adapter or leading to another piping system. Female threaded connections are more likely to be used in pressurized systems.
Male threaded
A male threaded air compressor fitting is used when there is no need for either the release nipple or the adapter. The male threaded end has a hole for use with an adapter or leading to another piping system. Male threaded connections are more likely to be used in pressurized systems.
BSP
This air compressor fittings is found on most UK cars and trucks, this type of fitting will require thread sealant tape or paste before installation. BSP fittings are usually made of brass.
Barb
This air compressor fitting has a conical seat on the end and is used to connect rubber tubing or metal hose with an inside diameter that matches the outside size of it’s tapered threads. This type of connection can be pressurized, but should not be used in situations where it will be exposed to oil or gasoline.
Flare
These air compressor fittings are used in high-pressure situations where a metal tube is inserted into the end of a pipe and then expanded by forcing the soft tubing against an internal cone, creating a seal that can withstand large amounts of pressure. Flare connections are often seen on nitrogen and helium tanks.
Threaded and Flare
This air compressor fitting is sometimes used for low-pressure applications where the rubber tubing needs to be secured in place by threaded connection on one side, while allowing it to expand at a flaring point on the other end.
Final Thoughts
Accessories for your air compressor will give you a lot of different options for what type of work you will be able to do with it. Once you know the size and types of air compressor fittings that are compatible, then you can start looking at some of these add-ons such as gauges, valves and sprayers.
The performance of your compressor will be largely determined by the type of air compressor fittings used, and as such it is important to know a little about each one before you start to buy them.
If you’re trying to search for a shop, check this air compressor website. They have products for air compressors, accessories and other tool you would need. Category and availability varies, so try to contact them about their product through phone.