Hawles Pipe Fittings Guide Promotes Leakfree Systems Efficiency

Pipe fittings play a crucial role in plumbing systems, serving as the connectors that join pipes, change their direction, and extend their length to create a complete and efficient network. Whether in water supply, pharmaceuticals, power generation, petrochemicals, or paper manufacturing, fittings are indispensable. Particularly in water supply systems, the material, type, shape, and size of fittings vary widely, making the right choice essential for system integrity.

Selecting the appropriate pipe fitting is critical to ensuring the stability and reliability of a plumbing system. Incorrect choices can lead to flow restrictions, leaks, and increased maintenance costs. When choosing fittings, consider the following key factors:

• Pipe Type: Different pipe materials require compatible fitting types.
• Pipe Diameter: Fitting sizes must match pipe diameters for secure connections.
• Fitting Material: Choose corrosion-resistant and pressure-resistant materials based on the conveyed medium.
• Conveyed Medium: Different media impose varying requirements; for example, drinking water fittings must meet health standards.
• Fitting Shape: Select shapes like elbows, tees, or crosses based on system layout.
• Additional Parameters: Pressure ratings and other specifications must align with operational conditions.

Water supply systems commonly use pipes made of polyethylene (PE), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), ductile iron, copper, plastic, fiber cement (AC), or galvanized/stainless steel. Fittings must be selected to match these materials.

Flanged fittings connect pipes, valves, and pumps via bolts, often with gaskets for enhanced sealing. Temperature and pressure are key considerations. Flanged fittings are versatile, easy to install, and compatible with most rigid pipes, though they require bolts and may pose leakage risks.

Designed specifically for HDPE/PE/PEX and OPVC/PVC pipes, System 2000 fittings enable quick installation without specialized tools or training. They are ideal for replacing aging pipelines and have been certified for a 100-year lifespan. Available in diameters from d63 to d630, they offer a comprehensive range for plastic pipe connections.

Synoflex fittings facilitate connections between older materials (cast iron, concrete, or asbestos cement) and modern plastics. Their high-tolerance, multi-range restraint couplings accommodate incompatible pipe combinations, such as cast iron to PVC or ductile iron to HDPE. Benefits include long service life, quick repairs, and corrosion resistance, though they are limited to pipes below DN 400.

Water pipe diameters vary by region, material, and design. Mains often exceed DN 400, distribution lines start at DN 50, and service lines (to buildings) are typically below DN 50.

For small-diameter service lines, push-fit fittings like Hawle ISO (for PE pipes) or ZAK (bayonet-style, leak-proof connections) offer fast, tool-free installation. These are ideal for residential applications.

Nova Siria fittings handle mains above DN 300, with tolerances for diverse materials (steel, concrete, HDPE, etc.) and pressure ratings up to 40 bar.

Epoxy-coated ductile iron fittings are durable, corrosion-resistant, and suitable for high pressures but heavier than plastic alternatives.

Common for small diameters, brass fittings are robust and widely used in compact systems.

Lightweight and corrosion-free, plastic fittings (POM or PP) are ideal for service lines but lack the strength for high-pressure applications.

Fittings must align with the conveyed medium:

Certified to European standards (e.g., ÖVGW/DVGW), these ensure safety with lead-free components.

Designed for corrosive environments, sewage fittings use NBR linings to resist abrasion from slurry and particles.

Certified under EU standards, gas fittings meet stringent safety requirements for fuel applications.

Fittings come in various shapes to accommodate system designs:

• Tees and Crosses: Connect multiple pipes at 90° angles.
• Elbows: Adjust flow direction (11°, 30°, 45°, or 90°).
• Gooseneck Bends: Elevate pipes (e.g., for hydrants).
• Reducers: Transition between pipe sizes.

For uneven terrain, adjustable fittings like Hawle Vario provide customized angles to simplify installation.