Nipple Pipe
Nipple Pipe
Nipple Hex
Nipple Pipe
Nipple Close
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Coupling
Pipe Union Fitting
Pipe Union Fitting
Pipe Union Fitting
Pipe Union Fitting
Pipe Union Fitting
Reducer Bell
Pipe Union Fitting
Reducer Bushing
Reducer Bushing
Pipe Union Fitting
Reducer Bushing
Elbow 45
Elbow 90 Street
Elbow 45
Elbow 90
Elbow 90 Street
Elbow 45
Elbow 90 Street
Elbow 90 Street
Elbow 90 Street
Tee
Elbow 90 Street
Elbow 90 Street
Plug Hex
Plug Square
Plug Square
Plug Square
Plug Square
Plug Square
Cap
Plug Square
Flange
Flange
Plug Square
Flange
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Female
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Male
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Male Reducer
Barb Male Reducer
Barb Female Elbow
Barb Male Reducer
King Combination Nipples
King Combination Nipples
King Combination Nipples
Threaded Pipe Thread and PTFE Information
Threaded Connection: The NPT taper allows the male and female threads to wedge together when tightened. The taper angle ensures a tighter fit as you turn, compressing the threads.
Fitting Installation: Hand-tighten the fitting, then use a wrench for 1-2 more turns. Avoid over-tightening to prevent stripping threads or cracking.
Threads offer some sealing via metal-to-metal contact, but small gaps can arise from machining tolerances or imperfections. This is where sealants like PTFE tape or pipe dope are useful.
Should PTFE Tape Be Used? Y ES
Not using PTFE tape increases the risk of leaks, while damaged tape serves as cheap insurance.
NPT threads alone don’t provide a complete seal, so PTFE tape fills micro-gaps to prevent leaks. It also reduces friction, aiding assembly and preventing thread damage, and offers corrosion protection by creating a barrier between threads, even though stainless steel is already resistant.
Which PTFE Tape to Use?
- **Gray PTFE Tape:** Thicker (4.5 mil) and nickel-infused, designed for stainless steel fittings; best choice to prevent galling.
- **White PTFE Tape:** Suitable for water lines, but may not handle stainless steel threads well.
- **Oxygen Lines:** Do not use standard or gray PTFE tape; use **GREEN, oxygen-rated tape** instead.
How to Apply PTFE Tape?
Wrap the tape 2 to 3 turns clockwise around the male threads, starting one thread back to prevent it from entering the pipe. Pull the tape tight, but avoid excessive wrapping, as it can bunch up and reduce effectiveness.
Pipe dope, or thread sealant paste, can be used alongside tape for added security. Apply the tape first, then add the dope, but be cautious not to over-apply either product, as excess can clog the pipes.