Forged pipe fittings are used in heavy industries with high pressure and corrosive conditions. They also have a thicker wall. There is a marking on the collar portion of the fittings. The purpose of the marking is to ease identification and ensure smooth system operation. For example, it may include the fitting size, class pressure, and heat number. However, such marking is not embossed in carbon steel forged pipe fitting. Other materials such as stainless steel SS316 will have the marking.
A hex bushing is a threaded type pipe fitting whereby it connects two pipes of one female threaded and the other male threaded together. As standard, hex bushing will have male and female thread on the body itself. The outer diameter size will be able to suit two sizes of pipes as default where the female thread will always be in a smaller size compared to the male thread.
Hex bush forged pipe fittings are made in accordance of ASME B16.11 standard. Class pressure of 3000 will have a 3M marking. It is smaller, lighter, thinner, and have a lower working pressure. Class pressure of 6000 will have a 6M marking. It is bigger, heavier, thicker, and have a higher working pressure. This hex bush can withstand up to 3000 or 6000 PSI working pressure. The material used is stainless steel SS316. The available connection is NPT threaded.
Installing a forged pipe fitting depends on the connection type. This hex bush has connections of male and female NPT thread that provide a tight seal upon installation. For threaded connection, the male thread will be inserted into the female end. NPT is commonly used because a narrow thread makes better sealing. The threaded ends make it easy to assemble and disassemble during maintenance and installation. The other connection type is socket weld. For this type of connection, the plain end pipe will be inserted into a recessed area of the fitting prior to welding.