Pneumatic fittings – purpose and classification

According to the connection type, fittings are divided into:

• Push-in quick-connect fittings:
  • Plastic fittings with collets and threaded metal inserts
  • Metal push-in fittings with collets
• Compression fittings with union nuts
• Threaded fittings
• Couplers (or quick-connect couplings)

Below we will examine the features of each type.

What are pneumatic fittings used for?

What types of pneumatic fittings are there?

Push-in quick-connect fittings

The collet allows quick and easy connection and disconnection of pneumatic system components. These fittings have a spring-loaded mechanism that locks the tube when inserted and holds it until disconnected. Therefore, installation does not require special tools, and the tube is NOT deformed.

Operating pressure up to 8 bar. Operating temperature not exceeding +50°C. Thread sealing with pre-applied sealant. Typically used in lightly loaded applications. Available with metric and inch threads for tubing from 4 to 12 mm.

The main advantage of these fittings is their price. They are suitable for pneumatic systems and water supply systems operating at extremely low pressure.

Operating pressure up to 9.5 bar. Operating temperature not exceeding +60°C. Thread sealing with a rubber O-ring. Available with metric and inch threads for tubing from 4 to 12 mm.

Made from high-quality gray plastic; the collet mechanism and threads are made of nickel-plated brass; the seal is NBR.

Series E pneumatic fittings are the most popular. They offer a good balance of price and quality and are used in areas where there is no risk of mechanical damage to the fittings.

This type of fitting is most commonly used on concrete batching plants and packaging lines. Recommended for connecting polyurethane tubing.

Operating pressure up to 16 bar. Operating temperature up to +60°C. Threads and body are made of nickel-plated brass. Available with inch threads for tubing from 4 to 12 mm.

These fittings are more expensive but impact-resistant and suitable for pneumatic systems operating above 9.5 bar. They are commonly used in construction equipment and machinery manufacturing.

This type uses a compression nut to secure the tubing. They can withstand compressed air pressure up to 35 bar. Threads are sealed with rubber O-rings. The threads and body are made of brass.

Series N fittings can be used with vacuum, compressed air, liquids, and gases. Available with inch threads and for tubing from 4 to 12 mm.

Series N fittings are also often used for connections and emergency pipeline repairs in commercial vehicles.

The threaded type provides a strong connection. The allowable pressure limit is 35 bar of compressed air. The primary materials are brass and aluminum. These fittings are used to connect various components with internal and external threads.

This group also includes threaded adapters for pneumatic systems. They can be assembled into manifolds, and the connections are sealed with rubber O-rings or sealing tape. Available with inch threads from 1/8″ to 3/4″.

Couplers provide fast and reliable connection and disconnection of flexible or rigid pipelines and hoses. They ensure airtight connections and allow easy installation and removal without tools. Manufactured according to ISO standards, with an allowable pressure limit of 12 bar.

At Specialist, you can buy couplers with a locking mechanism in the form of clamping rollers, which deform pneumatic tool connections less than other types of clamps.

Silencers are installed on the exhaust ports of pneumatic components (valves, cylinders) to reduce noise generated by the release of compressed air or gas. They are made of sintered bronze. The allowable pressure limit is 10 bar. In the Specialist online store, you can also buy pneumatic silencers with adjustable flow passage diameter.

Can push-in fittings be used for vacuum systems?

What standard air fittings are available?