When it comes to plumbing and water supply systems, PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) pipes and fittings are the most popular choice due to their durability, ease of use, and low cost. But for someone new to plumbing or DIY installations, understanding the various types of PVC fittings can be confusing.
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the top 20 PVC pipe fitting names, their uses, and where you’re likely to find them in action. Whether you’re a homeowner, student, or site supervisor, this guide will help you make informed choices.
PVC pipe fittings are accessories used to connect, redirect, extend, or seal PVC piping systems. They help control the direction of flow, manage pressure, and ensure that the pipe layout is efficient and leak-proof.
These fittings are used in plumbing, agriculture, drainage, chemical handling, and electrical conduit applications.
- Lightweight and easy to transport
- Corrosion-resistant – ideal for water and chemicals
- Affordable – budget-friendly alternative to metal
- Long-lasting – life span of 40–50 years
- Easy installation – usually joined with solvent cement
Top 20 PVC Pipe Fitting Names
1. Elbow
A PVC elbow is a fitting used to change the direction of flow between two pipes. Common angles include 90 degrees and 45 degrees. It’s frequently used in corners or tight spaces where straight piping isn’t feasible. Elbows are essential in navigating the piping system around walls, beams, or underground obstacles.
2. Tee
A tee fitting resembles the letter ‘T’ and is used when a branch line is needed from the main pipe. It allows fluid or gas to split into two directions. These fittings are widely used in domestic plumbing where one line must feed multiple outlets, such as bathroom and kitchen lines.
3. Coupling
A coupling connects two lengths of pipe in a straight line. It is very useful for extending long runs of piping or repairing broken sections. Some couplings have stops inside to ensure perfect alignment, while others are slip couplings that can slide over the pipe during installation.
4. Reducer
A reducer fitting connects two pipes of different diameters. It reduces the flow size from a larger pipe to a smaller one or vice versa. This helps control pressure and flow rates in systems where pipe sizes must vary. Reducers are used in both water supply and drainage systems.
5. End Cap (Plug)
End caps or plugs are used to close the end of a PVC pipe. This is useful when you want to terminate a pipe, either permanently or temporarily. End caps are common in future-proofing a system where future extensions may be added or during maintenance shutdowns.
6. Union
A union serves a similar purpose as a coupling, but it allows for easy disconnection of pipes. It is made up of three parts: two end fittings and a central nut. Unions are used where the pipework needs to be dismantled periodically, such as near pumps, tanks, or filters.
7. Cross Tee (4-Way)
A cross tee has four outlets in a plus (+) shape and allows four pipes to meet at a single point. Though less common, it is used in irrigation and water distribution systems where multiple branches must connect. It provides symmetry and can simplify the layout in complex piping networks.
8. Male Threaded Adapter
This fitting has male (external) threads on one end and a slip socket on the other. It connects PVC pipes to metal or threaded systems. These are commonly used in tap or pump connections where detachable or hybrid fittings are required.
9. Female Threaded Adapter
Opposite to the male threaded version, the female threaded adapter has internal threads. It accepts male-threaded parts, providing flexibility in mixed-material connections. Often used with brass valves or threaded taps, it allows for easy conversion between threaded and slip systems.
10. Slip Tee
A slip tee allows you to add a branch line into an existing pipe run without cutting out a section. The central part slides over the pipe, offering flexibility in retrofitting or repair situations. It’s widely used when adding new outlets to a current water line.
11. Bushing
A bushing is a compact reducer used to fit a smaller pipe into a larger fitting. It saves space and cost when compared to full-sized reducers. Bushings are ideal when making internal diameter transitions within limited working spaces such as wall cavities or appliance fittings.
12. Nipple
A nipple is a short piece of pipe with threads on both ends. It connects two female-threaded fittings. Typically made from metal in traditional systems, PVC nipples are used in low-pressure setups or to join valves and taps with pipes.
13. Flange
A PVC flange is a flat, disc-like fitting used to connect pipes, valves, or equipment using bolts and gaskets. These are ideal for systems that require frequent assembly and disassembly, such as industrial pipelines, pump setups, or systems that must handle high flow rates.
14. Check Valve
A check valve is a non-return valve that allows flow in one direction only. It automatically closes if the flow reverses, preventing backflow. These are important in preventing contamination in drinking water systems or stopping the reverse flow in irrigation or pump lines.
15. Ball Valve
A ball valve is a shut-off valve that controls water flow using a spherical ball with a hole through its centre. Turning the handle opens or closes the valve. Ball valves are durable, provide a tight seal, and are widely used in plumbing for manual control.
16. Y-Fitting (Wye)
A Y-fitting or wye joins three pipes at 45-degree angles, allowing smoother flow than a standard tee. It’s commonly used in drainage systems to reduce the risk of clogging and improve waste water direction, especially under sinks and in sewer lines.
17. Trap (P-Trap/S-Trap)
A trap is a curved section of pipe that holds a small amount of water to prevent sewer gases from entering buildings. Found beneath sinks and toilets, P-traps and S-traps are crucial for hygiene and are made of PVC in modern plumbing systems.
18. Hose Bib
A hose bib, also known as a tap or spigot, is an outlet to which garden hoses can be attached. PVC hose bibs are usually threaded and used in outdoor water supply for gardening, car washing, and other purposes.
19. Air Vent
An air vent fitting releases trapped air in plumbing lines, ensuring a smooth and uninterrupted water flow. These are important in vertical pipelines or high-rise buildings to avoid water hammer and air lock issues.
20. Expansion Joint
An expansion joint allows movement within a pipeline system caused by temperature fluctuations. It prevents cracking or damage by absorbing expansion or contraction, especially in long runs of exposed PVC piping.
IS Codes for PVC Pipes and Fittings
Title: Unplasticized PVC (UPVC) Pipes for Potable Water Supplies
- Covers: Dimensions, performance, testing methods for UPVC pipes for drinking water
- Pipes classified by pressure: 2.5, 4, 6, 10 & 16 kg/cm²
- Applicable for: Agriculture, public water supply, and housing
Title: Specification for Unplasticized PVC Fittings for Potable Water Supplies
- Covers a full range of fittings like elbows, tees, reducers, couplers, caps, etc.
- Each part focuses on specific types of fittings
- Part 1: General requirements
- Parts 2–13: Specific fittings (e.g. sockets, reducers, bends, tees)
Title: UPVC Pipes for Soil and Waste Discharge Systems Inside Buildings
- Focuses on non-pressure applications
- Pipes used for drainage, soil, and waste disposal
- Common for residential and commercial sanitary pipelines
Title: Unplasticized PVC (UPVC) Drainage Fittings for Above Ground Non-Pressure Applications
- Specifies fittings used in building drainage systems
- Includes traps, connectors, branches, and access fittings
- Compatible with IS 13592 pipes
Title: Conduits for Electrical Installations – Rigid PVC Conduits
- Deals with PVC conduits for electrical wiring
- Specifies dimensions, wall thickness, bend radius, and strength
- Ensures electrical insulation and mechanical protection
Title: Unplasticized PVC Pipe for Agricultural Irrigation Systems – Fittings
- Applicable to agricultural use and rural water distribution
- Includes specifications for plain, bell-ended, and ring fittings
Title: Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride (CPVC) Pipes for Hot and Cold Water Distribution Systems
- Covers hot and cold water supply applications
- Specifies CPVC pipes and fittings that withstand high temperatures
- Often used in bathrooms and kitchens
Conclusion🎯
Knowing these top 20 PVC pipe fitting names helps both professionals and homeowners in selecting the right fitting for their needs. Each component plays a vital role in ensuring leak-free, efficient, and durable piping systems. Whether you’re building a home, maintaining a water system, or managing an irrigation setup, having the right PVC fittings in place ensures safety, economy, and performance.
FAQs
Q1. What is the most commonly used PVC fitting?
A: Elbows and tees are the most commonly used fittings in both residential and industrial plumbing.
Q2. Can I use PVC fittings for underground installations?
A: Yes, but you should use pressure-rated or heavy-duty PVC and ensure proper burial depth and bedding.
Q3. Do I need to use glue for all PVC fittings?
A: Not all. Solvent cement is used for slip joints, while threaded fittings don’t require glue.
Q4. Are PVC fittings resistant to chemicals?
A: Most standard PVC fittings are resistant to many chemicals, but industrial-grade CPVC may be required for harsh substances.
Q5. How long do PVC fittings last?
A: With proper installation and protection from UV rays, they can last 40 to 50 years