Ductile iron grooved pipe fittings are integral components in modern piping systems, particularly in fire protection, water distribution, and industrial applications. These fittings are renowned for their robustness, flexibility, and ease of installation.
1. Material Specifications
Manufactured from high-strength ductile iron, these fittings typically conform to ASTM A536 standards, offering:
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Grade 65-45-12: Minimum tensile strength of 65,000 psi (448 MPa), yield strength of 45,000 psi (310 MPa), and elongation of 12%.
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Grade 60-40-18: Alternative grade used in specific applications.
2. Pressure Ratings
These fittings are designed to handle varying pressure requirements:
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3″ to 12″ sizes: Rated up to 350 psi (24 bar) for ductile iron.
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14″ and larger sizes: Rated up to 250 psi (17 bar).
3. International Standards Compliance
Ductile iron grooved pipe fittings adhere to several international standards, ensuring reliability and performance:
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ANSI/AWWA C110/A21.10: Ductile-Iron and Gray-Iron Fittings for Water Service.
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ANSI/AWWA C153/A21.53: Ductile-Iron Compact Fittings.
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ANSI/AWWA C606: Grooved and Shouldered Joints.
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ISO 6182: International standard for fire protection systems.
4. Dimensions and Sizes
These fittings are available in a wide range of sizes to accommodate various piping needs:
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Standard Sizes: Typically range from 3″ to 36″ (DN80 to DN900).
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Custom Sizes: Larger sizes, up to 64″, are available upon request.
5. Coatings and Linings
To enhance durability and corrosion resistance, these fittings come with various coatings and linings:
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Cement-Mortar Lining: Standard lining for potable water applications.
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Protecto 401: Advanced lining offering superior corrosion resistance.
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Glass Lining: Provides a smooth surface and high resistance to aggressive media.
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External Coatings: Options include bituminous, epoxy, and fusion-bonded epoxy coatings.
6. Rigid vs. Flexible Joints
Ductile iron grooved fittings are available in two primary joint types:
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Rigid Joints: Provide a secure, fixed connection suitable for straight runs and applications requiring minimal movement.
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Flexible Joints: Allow for slight movements and misalignments, accommodating thermal expansion and contraction.
7. Applications
These fittings are versatile and widely used in various systems:
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Fire Protection Systems: Ensuring reliable water flow for firefighting.
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Water Distribution Networks: Transporting potable and non-potable water.
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Industrial Piping Systems: Handling various fluids and gases.
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Wastewater Systems: Facilitating the movement of wastewater.
Ductile iron grooved pipe fittings offer a combination of strength, flexibility, and ease of installation, making them an excellent choice for various piping applications. Their compliance with international standards and availability in diverse sizes and coatings ensure their suitability for both domestic and industrial use.