A fitting joins sections of pipe together to change the direction of flow, alter the pipe size, or split the stream. Common shapes include elbows, tees, reducers, and unions. They are specified by their end connections, such as threaded, socket weld, or flanged, and must match the pressure class and material of the surrounding pipe.
We need a two-inch threaded tee and a couple of 90-degree fittings to route this line around the new pump base.
Using too many fittings in a short run increases pressure drop and creates unnecessary potential leak points; pipe benders are preferred where feasible.
Related terms
Elbow
A fitting that changes the direction of a pipe run, usually by 90 or 45 degrees.
Tee
A T-shaped fitting that splits or joins flow, with a straight run and a side branch.
Reducer
A fitting that joins a larger pipe to a smaller one, either on a common centerline or with one side flat.
Union
A three-piece threaded fitting that lets a section of pipe or a valve be disconnected without turning the pipe.