Long Nipple: What are the 10 Different Types of Pipe Nipples?

Ever wondered what pipe nipples are, what a pipe nipple is made of, or how to remove pipe nipples? Wonder no more. In this blog, we shall discuss the 10 different types of pipe nipples and everything you need to know about pipe nipples, and why they are useful pipe fittings.

Let's get started.

What are pipe nipples?

In regards to piping and plumbing, a pipe nipple is a short piece of pipe threaded on both ends. It is normally fitted with a male threads connection on all parts, and it is purposely used for sealing piping. They are used in a wide range of applications, such as plumbing, gas lines, water supply, and the heating industry.

In the plumbing industry, they are commonly used to connect two fittings. They are mainly categorized according to size, overall length, and material. When you choose a pipe nipple, it is essential to check and confirm that the threads are properly aligned and tightened to prevent leaks.

What are the Different Types of Pipe Nipples

There are many types of nipples. If you don't know the type of Superlok pipe nipple you want to buy, consult your pipe fitting vendor, like Ace Compression Fittings.

1. Weld Pipe Nipple

Welding nipples have no threads but are designed to be welded on pipes instead. They are often used in high-temperature applications where a threaded connection may not be strong enough. They do not deform through cutting threads since they are made with strong materials like stainless steel; this, in turn, reduces walls and therefore weakens structural strength. They are also available in various lengths and diameters to suit various applications.

2. Hex Pipe Nipple

The hex nipple is a type of pipe nipple with a hexagonal shape in the middle, permitting wrenches to grasp them securely. A hex nipple with two different lengths on opposite sides is called a reducer hex nipple or unequal nipple. It is typically made of stainless steel and other materials. They are used to connect two pipes with female threads. Typical applications involve plumbing and automation and are available in two different sizes and lengths.

3. Seamless Pipe Nipple

Seamless pipes do not contain seams drilled since it is made from a single piece of metal. They are structurally stronger and designed for use in high-pressure applications because they are typically made from strong materials like stainless steel. They are quite expensive than weld pipe nipples and offer greater strength and durability. Additionally, it is available in a variety of lengths and diameters.

4. Close Nipple

It is a type of pipe nipple that has a short length and has closely attached nipples hence is unable to contain the unthreaded area. The threads meet in the middle of unequal nipple and are totally covered by male pipe threads, which is MPT. It is often used to connect two fittings in a tight space where a longer nipple would not fit. They are commonly used in plumbing systems where space is much limited.

5. Barrel Pipe Nipple

A pipe nipple is short piece that has a tapered NPT thread at one end with untreated parts on either end. Nipples with threads on both ends are called TBE, meaning threaded on both ends of the thread. They are used to connect two pipes that have different sizes. Barrel pipes have a larger diameter in the middle than at the ends.

6. Shoulder Pipe Nipple

It is a type of pipe wrench nipple that has a larger diameter at one end, called the shoulder, and a smaller diameter at the other end. The shoulder acts as a barrier, preventing the nipple from being inserted too deep into the fittings. They are longer than close nipples, and the unthreaded area is not big enough for a pipe wrench since they leave some unthreaded pipe in the middle.

7. Swage Pipe Nipple

They are designed to change pipe diameter and allow for the connection of 2 pipes with the same length and diameter. The larger end is basically used in connecting a larger fitting, while the smaller end is used to connect small pipes or fittings

Swage pipes generally increase the flow of oil or fluid across pipes of various sizes. Swage nipples are divided into either eccentric reducers or concentric swage nipples. The former can be used for flat bottom installation sides to ensure that no air accumulates in tubes, while the latter is used for vertical pipelines.

8. Combination/King Pipe Nipple

This is a type of pipe nipple that has male threads on one side and a hose barb on the other side. The latter is used to connect tubing, while the threaded end is used to connect to a pipe. A king pipe nipple is commonly used in applications where tubing needs to be connected to a fitting, for instance, in irrigation schemes or any fluid transfer. When installing a king pipe nipple, it is important to ensure that the joint is well aligned in order to prevent leaks.

9. Right-Left Hand Pipe Nipple

This is a type of pipe nipple that has a left-hand thread on one end and a right-hand thread at the other end. This style of piping enables the nipple to be screwed tightly into two female fittings. It is commonly used in applications such as services such as plumbing and gas lines where a change in thread direction is required.

10. T.O.E Pipe Nipple

A (threaded-on-end) pipe nipple is one that has a male thread end on one side of long nipple and a plain, unthreaded end on the other side. The former is used to connect to a pipe, while the latter is used to connect to another pipe. The threaded end can also be used in gas lines and plumbing systems.

FAQs

Do you still want to know more about nipple pipe fittings? We have highlighted some frequently asked questions about nipple piping below.

• What is a nipple used for in plumbing?

In plumbing, a nipple is a short piece of pipe with male threads on both ends. It is commonly used to connect two fittings or pipes with female and male threads together. Nipples are typically made of metal, such as brass, steel, or copper.

• What is the difference between pipe nipple and coupling?

While both pipe nipples and couplings are used in plumbing installations to connect pipes or fittings, there are some differences between connecting them like design, length, thread orientation, and function.

• What is the standard size for a pipe nipple?

The standard size for a pipe nipple can vary depending on the region and the specific plumbing system being used. In the United States, pipe nipple sizes are typically designated by the nominal pipe size (NPS), which corresponds to the inside diameter of the pipe. Common NPS sizes for pipe nipples range from 1/8 inch to 12 inches or even larger.

The Final Word

Pipe nipples pipe fittings are essential in the plumbing field. However, you have to ensure you buy from a reliable dealer. At Ace Compression Fittings, we got you covered. We have the best stainless steel nipples and other fittings to fulfill your needs. Get in touch today! Call us at 800-888-8769