In the plumbing world, a nipple is an efficient and frequently used short piece of stainless steel used for pipe fitting. A nipple is fitted with a male pipe thread (MPT) connection at each end of the opening, this ensures a tight waterproof seal for piping, threading, and valves. Pipe nipples vary in size, customarily 12”, lengths over 12” are referred to as ready cut pipe the thread specifications are identical however the tolerance on the length is less stringent on a ready cut pipe. This article carefully articulates the major types of pipe nipples in Dubai and specifies their uses and differences. There may be other nipples in the industry; the following are the most common types you’ll encounter:
Barrel Pipe Nipple
Barrel nipples (a common name for pipe nipples) are pointed NPT threaded at each end with an unthreaded section in the middle. Nipples that are threaded on both ends are commonly referred to as threaded on both ends (TBE). During manufacturing, the final nipple length is specified according to need and includes both threaded ends.
T.O.E Pipe Nipple
T.O.E stands for threaded one end, this nipple is characteristically used as legs for oil tanks. T.O.E nipples and weld nipples are often classed together due to their similarities; however, weld nipples have a beveled end specifically applied for butt weld connections.
Weld Pipe Nipple
Weld nipples are unique because they have no threads and are connected to tube fittings by welding instead. Weld nipples survive harsh environments and conditions like vibrations, and changes in pressure or temperature. Weld nipples are not weakened by the cut threads which can reduce the wall thickness and therefore weaken the structural strength.
Close Pipe Nipple
A close nipple is entirely threaded, this results in almost none of the nipple being exposed when two fittings are screwed tightly onto both ends. Close nipple fittings are measured by the diameter of the close.
Shoulder Pipe Nipple
Shoulder nipples are larger in length than a close nipple, the threads are intertwined with short unthreaded spaces. and include a very short unthreaded space between the threads. The unthreaded space is not large enough to fit a pipe wrench. Unlike close pipes, when the fittings are screwed onto either end, a small piece of the nipple remains exposed at all times.
Hex Pipe Nipple
A hex nipple comprises a hexagonally shaped center, hence the name of the pipe nipple. The hexagon shape ensures a tighter grip and strength, the fitting remains securely grasped to the wrench. A hex nipple comprising varying sizes on each end is specifically referred to as a reducer or an unequal nipple.
Right-Left Hand Pipe Nipple
Right-left hand nipples have a right-hand thread on one end of the nipple and a left-hand thread on the other end. Right-left hand nipples are carefully crafted to cater to gas piping or piping applications where unions cannot be utilized or there is no space for one.
Seamless Pipe Nipple
Seamless pipe nipples are structurally strong and specifically designed to withstand high pressure environments efficiently. They are available without the addition of a welded seam that typically runs up the length of the pipe nipples.
Grooved Pipe Nipples
Grooved pipe nipples are manufactured for use in commercial or industrial markets, mining, and process piping applications. There are three common outlines of this type: Groove x Groove, Groove x Bevel, and Groove x MPT. They are available in a variety of sizes on a large commercial scale ranging from 1-1/2″ to 12″. They are fully interchangeable and customizable.
Combination or King Pipe Nipple
Combination nipples (also referred to as King nipples) are used specifically for fluid services, air or steam service renders them impractical. The most common connection is MPT but NPT (National Pipe Thread) connection types are also widely available and typically comprise a blank beveled end for welding. Combination nipples are somewhat similar to male adapters with a key difference between polythene pipe material.
Swage Pipe Nipple
Swage nipples regulate the flow of fluids from one pipe size to another. They are available in a variety of forms: plain, beveled, or threaded ends. Swage nipples vary a pipe’s diameter and help establish a connection between two pipes of different sizes. Swage nipple has two categories: concentric swage nipple and eccentric swage nipple. A concentric swage nipple is largely used for vertical pipelines whereas an eccentric swage nipple is largely used for horizontal pipelines.
Being fully aware and knowledgeable of the different types of pipe nipples helps in shopping for the perfect one by narrowing down the options according to specific needs. Pipe nipples come in handy for various applications and hence are available in a wide variety for commercial and industrial usage. Our experts at SWBM provide the best pipe nipples in Dubai, along with the consultation required.