Definition and Details of Threaded Fittings acc to ASME B16.11

Threaded Fittings general

Threaded joints probably represent the oldest method of joining piping systems. Like Socket Weld fittings, threaded fittings are mainly used for small pipe diameters (Small Bore Piping); generally for piping whose nominal diameter is NPS 2 or smaller.

The dimensional standards for taper pipe threads are given in ASME B1.20.1. That document gives all required dimensions including number of threads per inch, pitch diameter, and normal engagement lengths for all pipe diameters.

• Threaded piping is commonly used in low-cost, noncritical applications such as domestic water, fire protection, and industrial cooling water systems.
• Threaded fittings are normally made of cast gray or malleable iron, cast brass or bronze, or forged alloy and carbon steel.
• They are available in three pressure ratings: Class 2000, 3000 and 6000.

NPT Thread

All threaded fittings on this page are described, are provided with NPT thread, ASME B1.20.1. The wilsonpipeline Pipe Thread Tapered, is the best known and most widely used connection where the pipe thread provides both the mechanical joint and the hydraulic seal.

Dimensions of American Taper Pipe Thread, with Sealant Compound

DN-NPT	Major Diameter mm	Tapping Drill Size mm	TPI	Pitch mm
1/16″	7.895	6.00	27	0.941
1/8″	10.242	8.25	27	0.941
1/4″	13.616	10.70	18	1.411
3/8″	17.055	14.10	18	1.411
1/2″	21.223	17.40	14	1.814
3/4″	26.568	22.60	14	1.814
1″	33.228	28.50	11.5	2.209
1¼”	41.985	37.00	11.5	2.209
1½”	48.054	43.50	11.5	2.209
2″	60.092	55.00	11.5	2.209
2½”	72.699	65.50	8	3.175
3″	88.608	81.50	8	3.175
3½”	101.316	94.30	8	3.175
4″	113.973	107.00	8	3.175
5″	141.300	134.384	8	3.175
6″	168.275	161.191	8	3.175
8″	219.075	211.673	8	3.175
10″	273.050	265.311	8	3.175
12″	323.850	315.793	8	3.175

Types of Threaded Fittings by Class and Size

Description	Class Designation
	2000	3000	6000
Elbows 45 and 90 degrees Tees, Crosses, Coupling Half-Coupling, Cap	1/2 – 4	1/2 – 2	1/2 – 2
	1/2 – 4	1/2 – 2	1/2 – 2
	1/2 – 4	1/2 – 2	1/2 – 2
Pipe Wall	SCH 80 / XS	SCH 160	XXS

Plugs and Bushings are not identified. They may be used up through Class 6000

Advantages and Disadvantages of Threaded Fittings

Advantages

• Installation productivity is moderately high, and specialized installation skill requirements are not extensive.
• Leakage integrity is good for low-pressure, low-temperature installations where vibration is not encountered.

Disadvantages

• Rapid temperature changes may lead to leaks due to differential thermal expansion between the pipe and fittings.
• Vibration can result in fatigue failures of screwed pipe joints due to the high stress intensification effects caused by the sharp notches at the base of the threads.
• In hazardous piping systems threaded connections should be avoided, if possible. Their vulnerability to fatigue damage is significant, especially where exposed threads are subject to corrosion.

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