Among all metals, brass is the best for plumbing applications because of its corrosion resistance. It will not rust, which makes it ideal for locations where water is often corrosive. Rust and corrosion are the most common wear agents in metal fittings. Unlike these two, brass will not corrode. Moreover, brass is easy to machinate, making it an excellent choice for small fittings. These are the key features of brass fittings.
If you want to install a copper fitting, then you will need to take the steps to make sure it is a high-quality product. First, you need to check the material of the brass fitting. If it is made of copper, then it is very likely to corrode. Moreover, copper, brass and PEX piping are all susceptible to corrosion. So, if you have any questions, it is better to go with copper or steel fittings.
The copper content in a brass fitting varies according to its composition. Copper, for instance, contains 34% zinc in non-corroded areas and is 100% copper in corroded areas. This indicates that the zinc in the brass fitting leached out during its corrosion process, causing dezincification. To determine the exact chemical composition of the brass fitting, an elbow tube nipple was used. The sample was prepared for metallographic analysis, and it was examined using an optical microscope according to ASTM E883-02.
Among the many uses of brass, pipe fittings are a good example. They come in various sizes, making it easier to adjust the pipe size. Additionally, brass is an excellent material for plumbing applications due to its permeability. In addition to this, brass fittings can be polished, lacquered, nickel-plated, or antique finished. If you want a unique brass fitting, you can choose the extrusion method. Alternatively, you can choose a forged brass fitting.
The other main use of a brass fitting is to change the direction of piping. These are commonly found at 90-degree angles, but there are also two2.5-degree elbow brass fittings. Caps and plugs are two additional features of brass fittings. If you want to change the direction of piping, you can choose one that has a 90-degree angle. Then, you can choose from many different sizes of caps and plugs.
One of the most common causes of failure of brass fittings is water with an acidic pH level. This acidic water causes general corrosion and meringue dezincification, allowing zinc and copper to combine. These corroding substances then settle inside brass fittings and reduce the flow of water in the system. Such a situation can lead to premature failure of brass fittings. In addition, high-chlorine levels exacerbate the corrosion process.
Aside from its excellent durability, brass fittings can also last for several years. The material will not disintegrate or crack, ensuring a leak-free connection for years to come. Brass fixtures can also be installed in high-temperature areas, making them perfect for water-based distribution systems. It will add value to the home and will also increase its value. You can also find copper and PVC couplings in brass fittings.