Different Types of Pipe Joints

Believe it or not, there are several different types of pipe joints. All of them hold a different purpose. Depending on the situation and system that is going to be installed, things like pipe size, material, and flow pressure play a part in what kind of pipe joints will be used. 

Let’s go review the different types and determine what sets them apart from each other. 

Threaded Joints 

Threaded joints in plumbing are used for pipes that are connected by screwing them on using the threads on the end. One of the differences is that one end of the pipe will have threads internally and the other externally. 

Are you aware of the different types of pipes that you can find with threaded joints? 

These include: 

• Cast iron
• Copper
• PVC
• G.I.

You can find threaded joints in various sizes anywhere from 6 mm to 300 mm. In addition, these are only recommended for low temperature areas and low pressure flows in your home. This makes sense because we commonly see threaded joints used for water supply for our shower, toilet, sinks, etc. 

Soldered Joints

In my opinion, soldering is one of the cooler ways to seal a joint. Copper and copper alloy pipes are the most common type of pipe for soldering. The soldering filler metal melts at below 840 degrees celsius. This does take a skilled worker in order to perform this.

Brazed Joints

We previously discussed a soldered joint in a pipe. This is in close relation to a brazed joint in pipe, although the only difference is that the filler metal melts at above 840 degrees celsius. The filler metal material for brazing is mainly tin. This is because it has great harmony towards copper. 

Butt Welded Joints

Butt welding is done to join the pipes together when the pipes are the same diameter. In other words, both end are connected together right at the end with no overlap. This is actually the most common type of welding. These piping systems are most commonly used for industrial piping systems as well as commercial. 

Butt welded joints in the pipe can withstand high amounts of pressure because of the smooth surface that is inside the joint. These joints cannot be opened for maintenance purposes. 

Socket Welded Joints

These are great to use when there is a high chance of leaks. This joint is the opposite of a butt welded joint because this type is suitable for pipes with different diameters. For this, you put one pipe into the other, so there is overlap.

Other Types of Pipe Joints

Flanged

These are specifically used for pipes in large diameter as well as high pressure flows. These are generally made of cast iron and steel to ensure that they do not fail against high pressure. A flanged joint in a pipe is two flange components that are connected together using bolts at the joint to prevent leaking. 

Compression

A compression joint, or compression fitting, uses an external screw thread. This is so it can compress both of the ends together to prevent leaking from happening. These are meant for low pressure flows as they wouldn’t be able to withstand high amounts of pressure. 

Grooved

This one is exactly as it sounds. There is a small groove that has been made at the end of each pipe with something called a grooving machine. Then, a rubber gasket goes out the two pipe ends once they’ve been connected. Then, you screw together a coupling that consists of two parts, two bolts and nuts. 

Final Thoughts 

Overall, there are many types of pipe joints and fittings that can be used for plumbing. The type of system you are working on will determine what types of methods you will use to complete the job. Plumbing can be done in several different ways while including several different concepts. A lot of it has to do what’s used to connect the pipes together. 

Call 1-Tom-Plumber 

Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help with any plumbing issue in your home. 1-Tom-Plumber’s certified team of plumbers and drain technicians respond immediately to any emergency plumbing, drain cleaning, or water damage problem. 
We also handle the excavation of underground water lines and sewer main lines. Our immediate-response team is available every day and night of the year, even on holidays.