Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
(OP)
Does anyone know where I can find realistic information on the strength of compression fittings for copper tube?
I'm specifically referring to the type of fitting that is common in domestic water installations in the UK. It would appear that the mode of failure under pressure is that the fitting simply gets pulled apart, the "olive" / compression ring leaving scratches on the pipe surface. At what pressure should this occur (for typical R250 / "half hard" tube)? How can it be modelled; is it just friction, or does the "olive" have to actually elastically or plastically deform the pipe as it moves towards the end?
I realise there are several questions here, but I guess they're all variations on the theme!
Thanks in advance for your helpful comments.
Brian
I'm specifically referring to the type of fitting that is common in domestic water installations in the UK. It would appear that the mode of failure under pressure is that the fitting simply gets pulled apart, the "olive" / compression ring leaving scratches on the pipe surface. At what pressure should this occur (for typical R250 / "half hard" tube)? How can it be modelled; is it just friction, or does the "olive" have to actually elastically or plastically deform the pipe as it moves towards the end?
I realise there are several questions here, but I guess they're all variations on the theme!
Thanks in advance for your helpful comments.
Brian





RE: Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
John
RE: Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
KB
RE: Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
If the "olive" ferrule is non-metallic then it was not meant for copper tubing. You may be using a fitting for plastic tubing. Just a thought...
RE: Strength Of Copper Tube Compression Fitting
Swagelok and Parker both make pressure-rated compression fittings. You'll be hard pressed to get any such ratings for "standard" compression fittings.