Piping is an essential part of many industries around the globe, and elbows are one of its vital components. An elbow is a pipe fitting used in plumbing works to change the pipe direction by a certain degree, such as 45 or 90 degrees. Here, we’ll discuss one of the most commonly used elbow types, the 90 Degree Elbow. We will dive into its properties, composition, and uses. So, let’s get started!
What is 90 Degree Elbow?
A 90 degree elbow is a plumbing fitting designed to change the direction of a pipe by 90 degrees. The most common types are the long radius (LR) and short radius (SR) elbows, typically manufactured from steel, brass, chrome alloy, stainless steel, or plastic materials. It is commonly used in residential and commercial applications. Its construction can vary depending on what material it is made from, its size, and its pressure rating.
Properties 90 Degree Elbow
Mechanical Properties:
- A 90 degree elbow is a pipe fitting installed between two pieces of pipe to change the flow direction.
- 90 degree elbows are available in various materials, including brass, copper, plastic, and stainless steel.
- The most common type of 90 degree elbow is the 90 degree elbow with a female National Pipe Thread (NPT) connection on both ends.
- 90 degree elbows are also available with other connections, such as solder, sweat, or threaded connections.
- When selecting a 90 degree elbow, it is important to consider the material, connection type, and maximum pressure rating.
Chemical Properties:
- The 90 degree elbow is a pipe fitting installed between two pieces of pipe to change the flow direction.
- The most common use for a 90 degree elbow is to connect two pieces of pipe running in different directions.
- A 90 degree elbow is also used to connect two pieces of pipe running in the same direction but at different angles.
- A 90 degree elbow is classified as a long-radius elbow or LR elbow if the radius of curvature is 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe.
- A 90 degree elbow is classified as a short radius elbow or SR elbow if the radius of curvature is less than 1.5 times the diameter of the pipe.
Composition of 90 Degree Elbow
As mentioned earlier, different materials can be used to make 90 Degree Elbows. Carbon Steel elbows are used in low to medium temperatures and are suitable for transporting dry and non-corrosive gases. Stainless Steel Elbows, on the other hand, are ideal for piping corrosive liquids or high-temperature applications that other materials might not withstand. Meanwhile, due to their chemical resistance, PVC and CPVC materials are primarily useful in drainage systems and low-pressure delivery systems.
Uses of 90 Degree Elbow
90 Degree Elbows have diverse applications in different industries, such as plumbing, power plants, chemical plants, oil and gas refineries, and HVAC systems. One of its primary uses is as a connector to distribute water supply. It is also used to deal with the gas or liquid transportation process that requires diverting or redirecting the fluid flow direction. The elbow is also used where the pipes pass through tight or restricted spaces such as walls and ceilings to change their directions.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, a 90 Degree Pipe Elbow is an essential fitting used in pipes and plumbing systems to change the direction of pipes by 90 degrees. Its composition varies depending on the type of material used, making it perfect for many applications, such as power plants, chemical plants, oil and gas, and many more. The 90-degree elbow’s properties, such as durability and corrosion resistance, make it a versatile pipe fitting that plays a significant role in connecting, redirecting, and changing the direction of piping systems. Whether working in an industrial plant or a homeowner looking to upgrade your plumbing system, understanding 90 Degree Elbows is essential to choose the correct pipe fitting for your next project.
