Galvanized Pipe Fittings – Types, Applications And Selection Guide‌

It is very important to choose durable and corrosion-resistant pipe fittings, especially in industrial pipelines, building water supply and other systems. Galvanized pipe fittings have a long life and low maintenance cost due to the galvanizing process, and have become the first choice in many fields. This article will deeply analyze the relevant content of galvanized pipes, so that you can better optimize the safety and cost-effectiveness of the project and ensure the smooth progress and long-term operation of the project.

What are Galvanized Fittings?

Galvanizing process: the core of anti-corrosion‌

Galvanizing is to ensure the durability and corrosion resistance of pipe fittings. A layer of zinc is covered on the surface of the pipe, which uses the dual protection of physical and electrochemical, and effectively isolates it from the outside world. There are two mainstream processes:
Hot-dip galvanizing: The pipe fittings are immersed in molten zinc liquid to form a zinc layer between 80-100μm. Due to its excellent thickness, it is widely used in heavy corrosion environments (such as chemical pipelines and marine facilities).
Electrogalvanizing: A thin zinc layer of 5-15μm is generated on the surface of the pipe fittings through electrolytic reaction. It has low cost and average thickness. It is suitable for use in mildly corrosive environments (such as indoor water supply).

Why choose galvanized pipe fittings?

Rust and corrosion resistance: Anti-corrosion is one of the most significant advantages of galvanized pipe fittings. Not only is it anti-corrosive, but its life span can also be extended by 3-5 times.
Economical and efficient: The initial cost of galvanized pipe fittings is lower than that of stainless steel pipe fittings, and maintenance costs can also be reduced by 40% or more.
Strength guarantee: With a tensile strength of up to 500MPa, it has excellent mechanical properties and can withstand high pressure and impact.

Classification by function

Joint: A fitting used to connect two straight pipes
Elbow: An elbow is used to change the direction of a pipe. Common angles are 45° and 90°.
Tee: Leads fluid from a main pipeline or merges fluids from two pipelines.
Flange: Fastens two pipes or equipment together through bolted connections.

Classification by industry standards

ASTM A153: This standard mainly regulates the thickness and adhesion of the zinc coating to ensure durability.
ISO 1461: An internationally accepted standard that controls the quality of galvanized products and is suitable for export-grade product certification.

Construction and municipal engineering ‌

Water supply system ‌: Galvanized pipe fittings are pressure-resistant and leak-proof to ensure normal water flow and meet the GB/T 3091 drinking water safety standard. The protection of the galvanized layer can effectively resist external corrosion and ensure clean water quality.
Firefighting pipes: Firefighting pipes certified by UL/FM ensure reliability and effectiveness in fire emergencies.
Steel structure support: The galvanized layer can reduce the risk of external rust and extend the life of the building.

Agriculture and industry ‌

Irrigation system: Galvanized pipe fittings are suitable for use in open-air environments and can last up to 15-20 years.
Chemical pipelines: The chemical industry is highly corrosive and requires a hot-dip galvanizing process with strong corrosion resistance.
Mechanical equipment: For example, agricultural machinery hydraulic pipelines, high-precision threaded interfaces must be selected.

Key parameters

Material: Q235 galvanized steel can be given priority, as it has good strength and toughness. At the same time, it is also necessary to ensure that the selected product contains recycled materials, which will reduce the overall quality.
Dimension tolerance: When purchasing, you should ensure that the purchased product meets the ASME B16.11 standard to ensure sealing.
Pressure level: Common ones are Class 150 to Class 300, and a variety of pressure levels are available.

Quality identification skills

Coating detection: The thickness of the galvanized layer can be effectively checked using a magnetic thickness gauge. The thickness of the hot-dip galvanizing process should reach or exceed 80μm.
Surface observation: The surface should have a uniform color and no defects such as bubbles.
Brand certification: Choose a regular manufacturer that has passed the ‌ISO 9001‌ quality management system.

Regular maintenance‌: Clean the surface with a dry cloth every year. Anti-rust wax can be applied in humid environments.

Summarize

Whether in building water supply systems or industrial piping systems, galvanized pipe fittings perform very well, effectively resisting external corrosion and oxidation, with a long service life, bringing higher safety and economic benefits to various engineering projects.