ABS Pipe Fittings Metric

Our ABS metric fittings provide a reliable, lightweight and chemically resistant solution for a wide range of pressure pipework applications. Manufactured from acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), these fittings are widely used across potable water systems, food and beverage processing, airline systems, water treatment and general industrial installations.

Designed to work seamlessly with ABS metric pipe, this range includes plain solvent-weld fittings, threaded adaptors and transition fittings, allowing flexible system design while maintaining consistent performance and compliance.

ABS vs PVC-U Pipe Fittings - What’s the Difference?

Choosing between ABS and PVC-U pipe fittings often comes down to operating conditions, installation environment and long-term performance requirements. While both materials are widely used in pressure pipework systems, they each offer distinct advantages.

Feature ABS Metric Fittings PVC-U Fittings
Impact Resistance Excellent - Remains tough at low temperatures Lower - More brittle in cold conditions
Temperature Range -40°C to +60°C 0°C to +60°C
Weight Lightweight Lightweight
Chemical Resistance Very good (excluding solvents, alcohols, petrol) Excellent against a wider range of chemicals
Potable Water Suitability Yes (WRAS approved products available) Yes (WRAS approved products available)
Installation Method Solvent cement welding Solvent cement welding
Noise & Vibration Damping Better acoustic performance More rigid, less damping
Typical Applications Industrial, food & beverage, airline systems, water treatment Water distribution, chemical handling, drainage

When to Choose ABS Metric Fittings

ABS fittings are often preferred where impact resistance, low-temperature performance and durability are critical. Unlike PVC-U, ABS remains ductile in cold environments, making it ideal for:

  • Industrial pipework exposed to temperature fluctuations
  • Food and beverage processing systems
  • Airline and compressed air systems
  • Water treatment and utility installations
  • Areas where accidental impact or vibration is likely

Installation & Solvent Welding Guidance

ABS metric fittings are installed using ABS solvent cement welding, a fast and effective method of creating permanent, high-integrity joints. When installed correctly, solvent-welded joints are typically stronger than both the pipe and fitting themselves.

The solvent cement works by chemically softening the pipe exterior and fitting interior, allowing them to fuse together as the joint cures.

Basic Fitting Procedure

  1. Cut the pipe square
  2. Mark the pipe to indicate insertion depth
  3. Thoroughly abrade the pipe end and fitting socket
  4. Clean both surfaces using ABS cleaning fluid
  5. Apply ABS solvent cement evenly with a clean brush
  6. Push the pipe fully into the fitting
  7. Hold in position for the required setting time
  8. Wipe away excess cement
  9. Allow sufficient curing time before pressurising

Important:

  • Do not use sealing paste - it can damage ABS
  • Do not over-abrade to increase clearances
  • Joint integrity depends on clean, properly prepared surfaces

Solvent Cement Coverage Guide

An indication of the number of joints likely to be made per litre of solvent cement is:

Inch mm Joints
½ - 1 16-32 400
1¼ - 2 40-63 175
3 75-90 70
4 110 45
6 160 25
8 200-225 15
10 250-280 4
12 315 4

Chemical & Thermal Performance

ABS metric fittings offer good resistance to:

  • Diluted inorganic acids
  • Salts
  • Animal fats and oils
  • Organic acids

They are not suitable for use with:

  • Organic solvents
  • Alcohol
  • Petrol
  • Acetic acid
  • Vegetable oils

If you are unsure about chemical compatibility, our technical team can advise on specific applications.

ABS has a linear thermal expansion coefficient of 10.1 × 10⁻⁵ m/m/°C, so allowances for expansion and contraction should be considered in longer pipe runs.

Standards & Compliance

ABS metric fittings conform to the following standards:

  • BS 5392 - ABS fittings for use with ABS pressure pipe
  • BS 5391 - ABS pressure pipe specification
  • EN 10226-1 - Pipe threads for pressure-tight joints
  • DIN 2999 - Pipe threads for tubes and fittings
  • DIN DVS 2204-3 - Adhesive bonding of ABS thermoplastics

All WRAS-approved products supplied by Pipestock are suitable for use in potable water systems.

 

If you require any further information, our excellent customer service team is here to help so please call us on 01794 835835.

 

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