What is a Close Nipple and When to Use It?
Various fittings are used to connect pipes and ensure a smooth flow of liquids or gases. Among these fittings, the close nipple stands out for its unique design and specific applications.In this blog we are going to learn what is a closed nipple, its advantages, disadvantages, and how to proper use.
Defining a Close Nipple
A close nipple, is a short piece of pipe with male pipe threads at both ends. It follows that if a close nipple is screwed into two female-threaded fittings, the fittings nearly touch one another, leaving very little of the nipple itself visible.
Advantages of Close Nipples
When any situation requires closeness and leaves no room for loose fits, close nipples will give a tight and very sure connection between two fittings, thereby not adding too much in length to the assembled pipe. Therefore, such forms of nipples are highly valued for applications like:fire-fighting spray pipes and connecting valves or equipment in tight spaces.
Challenges and Drawbacks
Close nipples can be difficult to install and remove without an unthreaded section, potentially damaging the threads and causing leaks. Additionally, the lack of visible unthreaded nipple may lead to safety risks, especially under high pressure. The risk of leaks is also higher with close fittings if threads are not properly sealed or if the nipple is overtightened.
Materials and Specifications
Materials applied in the making of close nipples are varied. The most utilized include:
Carbon Steel: This is the most common material used to manufacture close nipples. They also come in galvanized and black. The galvanized version will help resist corrosion whereas black steel is cheaper but much less corrosion resistant.
Stainless Steel: By using stainless steel in manufacturing nipples, it provides improved resistance against corrosion and excellent toughness at higher temperatures when subjected to extreme environmental or process applications of corrosive media.
Close nipples are also manufactured to different standards, including the American standard ASTM A733, German standard DIN2982, and British standard BS EN10241.
When to Avoid Close Nipples
Close nipples should be avoided in high-pressure situations. They are also not suitable for gas line installations because of the potential for gas leaks, and in cases where frequent dismantling and re-assembly are required, as this can lead to thread damage.
Alternatives to Close Nipples
When a close nipple is not the best option for a particular application, several alternatives offer safer and more convenient connection options:
Shoulder Nipples: These have a longer unthreaded section between the threads. This allows easier tightening and loosening with a wrench without damaging the threads.
Hex Nipples: Hex nipples feature a hex in the middle that provides an excellent gripping surface for a wrench, eliminating the chances of thread damage at installation or removal.
Qingdao Fluido Industrial Co., Ltd.
For a wide array of high-quality pipe fittings, Qingdao Fluido Industrial Co., Ltd. is recognized as one of the leading and trustworthy manufacturers and exporters of pipe fittings with over twenty years of experience in this industry. FLUIDO was established in 1994, serves customers in more than 35 countries/regions, and has a broad product line that includes close nipples, flanges, valves, and many other pipe fittings. They prioritize customer satisfaction, ensuring stable quality with their mature quality control system and competitive prices, coupled with excellent customer service.