Barbed Fittings

Our barbed fittings - often referred to as hose tails - provide a reliable and economical solution for joining flexible hoses to threaded ports, valves, or pipework. Designed to grip firmly from the inside of the hose, the barbs ensure a secure, leak-resistant connection when paired with an appropriate hose clamp.

We offer a wide selection of materials, sizes and finishes to suit diverse applications, including:

• Brass, stainless steel and polypropylene fittings
• Sizes to suit hoses up to 70 mm (or more, where stated)
• Compatibility with various hose types (PVC, rubber, reinforced, etc.)
• Options with different barb counts or stepped profiles for optimal grip

Barbed fittings are simple yet effective. They allow for quick assembly without specialised tools, and their internal grip design makes them ideal for medium-pressure systems where ease of installation and reliable performance matter. Whether you’re working in plumbing, irrigation, pneumatics, washdown, chemical transfer or other fluid systems, these fittings are a trusted go-between.

To ensure a safe and long-lasting joint, pair your barbed fitting with a high-quality hose clamp.

If you’re unsure which combination is best for your setup - fitting material, hose size, or clamp type - our technical team is on hand to assist. Please get in touch, and we’ll help you select the right parts for your project.

Polypropylene is a lightweight, durable plastic ideal for use in low-to-medium pressure applications. Its high chemical resistance makes it suitable for conveying water, mild acids, and alkalis, while its non-corrosive nature ensures long-term reliability in both indoor and outdoor systems. These fittings are often found in irrigation, water treatment, and general fluid transfer systems. Being resistant to many aggressive substances, polypropylene barbed fittings are a cost-effective and practical choice for environments where metal fittings may degrade.

Brass is valued for its combination of strength, machinability, and corrosion resistance. It’s particularly suited to applications involving air, water, and oil, making brass barbed fittings a versatile option for workshops, plumbing systems, and industrial environments. They also provide an excellent seal and can handle higher pressures compared to most plastic alternatives. Brass fittings maintain their integrity over a wide temperature range and are resistant to dezincification when properly plated, offering a long service life.

For demanding environments or hygienic applications, stainless steel barbed fittings are the premium option. Manufactured from corrosion-resistant grades such as 304 or 316 stainless steel, they offer exceptional strength and durability even under high pressure or in contact with aggressive chemicals. These fittings are widely used in the food and beverage, pharmaceutical, and marine sectors, where cleanliness, chemical compatibility, and longevity are essential. Stainless steel’s superior resistance to rust makes it ideal for outdoor and washdown systems.

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a tough yet lightweight thermoplastic with excellent resistance to water and many chemicals. It’s commonly used in laboratory setups, water treatment systems, and general fluid handling where moderate temperatures and pressures are expected. PVC barbed fittings provide an economical solution, particularly where transparency or compatibility with PVC hose is desired. However, they are not recommended for use with solvents or at high operating temperatures.

Nylon (polyamide) barbed fittings are known for their high mechanical strength, toughness, and abrasion resistance. They perform well in both pneumatic and fluid systems, offering a reliable, lightweight alternative to metal. Nylon’s temperature resistance and low moisture absorption make it a good fit for air lines, fuel systems, and chemical dosing. These fittings are often favoured where reduced weight and excellent impact strength are priorities.

Acetal (also known as POM – polyoxymethylene) provides excellent dimensional stability, low friction, and good chemical resistance. Its rigidity and smooth internal surface make it ideal for applications requiring clean fluid transfer, such as in the food, pharmaceutical, and marine sectors. Acetal barbed fittings are particularly effective in systems carrying water, mild chemicals, or compressed air, where consistent performance and minimal wear are key.

Nickel plated brass combines the robustness of brass with the added protection of a nickel coating. The plating improves corrosion resistance and surface hardness, resulting in a bright, durable finish that withstands harsh industrial and outdoor conditions. Nickel plated brass barbed fittings are often used in pneumatic and hydraulic systems, or wherever exposure to moisture and oils could otherwise shorten the lifespan of standard brass. They also provide a professional appearance for visible installations.

Zinc plated steel fittings are strong and cost-effective, designed for use where high mechanical strength is required. The zinc plating offers a protective layer against corrosion, although it is best suited for indoor or controlled environments rather than constant exposure to water. These fittings are widely used in compressed air systems, general industrial setups, and hydraulic return lines. They deliver a reliable connection at an economical price point.

PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) is a high-performance fluoropolymer offering outstanding resistance to chemicals, UV radiation, and high temperatures. It is non-toxic, lightweight, and has low permeability, making it an excellent choice for applications in the chemical processing, semiconductor, and water purification industries. PVDF barbed fittings maintain their mechanical integrity over a wide temperature range and are ideal wherever purity and chemical compatibility are paramount.