What is a Pipe Nipple?
What is a pipe nipple? When talking about this, you will hear many different answers. But you only need to remember this formula: male thread + body + (male thread) = pipe nipple.
Why use the parentheses? Because nipple plumbing can be divided into TOE (threaded on one end) and TBE (threaded on both ends).
The pipe nipple is a short pipe with external threads (male threads) on both ends or one end, used for connections.
Threaded pipe nipples can have NPT or BSP threads. Common types include stainless steel, black carbon steel, and galvanized pipe nipples. As a leading pipe nipple manufacturer, we offer a range of pipe nipples and customized sizes.
1. Types of Pipe Nipples
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Barrel nipples
Usually called a pipe nipple, it is the most common type and has male thread ends and a smooth body in the middle. The smooth body extends the length.
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Welding nipple
It has one end threaded and one end welded. Typically crafted from durable materials like stainless steel or carbon steel, these nipples are often used in high-pressure applications. In industrial settings, the use of welding nipples is prevalent in oil and gas pipelines, chemical plants, and various manufacturing sectors.
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Seamless pipe nipple
In addition to their practical applications in plumbing, seamless pipe nipples are also commonly used in oil and gas industries, chemical processing plants, and HVAC systems.
The length of the nipple is typically the total length of its threaded portion. Pipe nipples may have:
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Reducer (unequal) nipples
These fittings connect pipes with differing diameters, ensuring a seamless flow while maintaining pressure integrity. The different-sized ends and threads used on nipples are BSP, BSPT, NPT, NPSM, and Metric.
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Hex Nipples
With a hexagonal section in the middle for wrench use, constructed from robust materials, hex nipples ensure a dependable means of linking two sections of pipe, a secure seal that resists leaks and endures high pressure. Features a hexagonal section in the center, allowing easy tightening or loosening with a wrench.
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Close Nipple / Running Nipple
They have full-body threads, enabling a close connection between two fittings screwed tightly between two female fittings, with very little of the nipple remaining exposed. An internal pipe wrench prevents thread damage.
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Hose Nipple
There is a special style of pipe nipple called a hose nipple for connecting threaded pipes and smooth hoses. One end of the nipple has an external thread, while the other is a hose barb. The hose barb size can match the pipe connection size or be reduced properly.
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King nipple
The king nipple has a special design: one end is a threaded connection to other female threads, and the other is a barb end to connect a hose pipe.
2. Supply Range for Pipe Nipples
The working pressure of pipe nipples will vary with the size and construction of the pipe, the type and number of clamps used, clamp placement, correct clamp installation, temperature, and the product being conveyed. Pipe nipples are available in the widest variety of wall thicknesses and materials.
Hebei Sanvo, a trusted supplier, offers threaded pipe nipples and seamless pipe nipples in carbon steel and stainless steel.
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Material
Carbon steel, Stainless steel
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Standards
ASTM A733, DIN2982, BS EN10241
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Dimensions
1/8″-8″ (DN6-DN150)
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Finishes
Black or galvanized
3. How to Install Pipe Nipple?
Before, we learned about pipe nipple types, and now, we will talk about how to install them.
It is not difficult; regardless of the type, the installation methods are almost the same.
- Tighten the thread in a clockwise direction (except for a very few types),
- Screw by hand first, then use a wrench or spanner to tighten it further.
Note that a closed nipple requires an internal expansion wrench due to its design; the welding nipple has a welding end for welding to others.
4. Pipe Nipple Standards
Hebei Sanvo exports various standards of steel pipe nipples, including carbon steel pipe nipples, stainless steel pipe nipples, welded pipe nipples, seamless pipe nipples, American standard steel pipe nipples, German standard steel pipe nipples, British standard steel pipe nipples, etc.
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ASTM A733 Standard
Carbon Steel Pipe Nipple
Material: ASTM A53/A106
Thread: ANSI/ASME B 1.20.1
Stainless Steel Pipe Nipple
Material: ASTM A312 (304/316); welded or seamless
Thread: ANSI/ASME B 1.20.1
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DIN2982, BS EN10241 Standards
DIN2982
Material: DIN2441 or DIN2440 seamless/welded pipe
Thread: DIN259; DIN2999
BS EN10241
Material: BS1387 seamless or welded pipe
Thread: ISO 7/1 or BS 21
5. Dimension Standards
The pipe nipple has different dimension standards according to different thread manufacturing standards. Different thread types. The most commonly used types are NPT threads and BSP Threads. NPT is an American standard for tapered threads, whereas BSP is a British standard for threads. The BSP thread includes two types: the tapered BSPT and the parallel BSPP.
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NPT Pipe Nipple Dimension Standard
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BSP Pipe Nipple Dimension Standard
6. Materials
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Carbon nipple
Carbon steel nipples usually include galvanized and black steel nipples. These are used to connect two other pipes or fittings, offering a reliable and durable solution for fluid transfer.
Galvanized nipple
The galvanization process, which involves coating steel with a layer of zinc, provides enhanced corrosion resistance, making these nipples ideal for use in environments prone to moisture and chemical exposure.
Black pipe nipple
A black pipe nipple without coating. Not resistant to corrosion and wear.
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Stainless nipple
When selecting the stainless steel grade for your pipe nipples, it is crucial to consider factors such as the specific environment, pressure ratings, and temperature variations. Common grades like 304 and 316 are popular due to their excellent mechanical properties.
7. Material Grades of Steel Pipe Nipples
Pipe nipples by Hebei Sanvo have high-quality materials:
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Carbon Steel
ASTM A105, ASTM A53 GR. A & B, API 5L GR. B
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Stainless Steel
ASTM A182 (304, 316), ASTM A312/A403 (TP304, TP316)
Hebei Sanvo Pipes And Fittings Co., Ltd. is in Cangzhou City, Hebei Province, China. Hebei Sanvo is a Chinese manufacturer. It was engaged in producing and researching pipe nipples, pipe couplings, and stainless steel pipe fittings in 1997. We always insist on survival by quality and development by reputation. After years of unremitting efforts, we have become a top pipe fittings company. Our products are widely used in gas, oil, water, fire, HVAC, mines, petroleum, and other fluid transportation. So, if you are interested in pipe nipples or other threaded pipe fittings, contact info@pipenipples.com for more information.
