PPb Pipe Fittings Inch

Our polypropylene (PP) plain fittings are designed for demanding industrial pipework systems where chemical resistance, temperature stability and long-term reliability are critical. Manufactured from high-quality polypropylene block copolymer (PP-B) and produced to BS 4991:1974, these fittings form a robust, maintenance-free solution for aggressive fluids, high-temperature processes and specialist environments.

Available in a distinctive beige-grey finish, polypropylene plain fittings are lightweight yet exceptionally durable, making them easy to install while delivering outstanding performance across a wide range of industries including chemical processing, pharmaceuticals, laboratories, water treatment, food & beverage and biotechnology.


Key Features & Technical Overview

  • Material: Polypropylene (PP-B - block copolymer)
  • Colour: Beige-grey
  • Manufacturing Standard: BS 4991:1974
  • Temperature Range:
    • Continuous operation: -20°C to 110°C
    • Short-term steam sterilisation: up to 130°C
  • Excellent chemical resistance to acids, alkalis and inorganic environments
  • Lightweight, easy to handle and install
  • Smooth bore for low pressure loss and high flow rates
  • Non-toxic & food-grade, suitable for hygienic applications
  • Corrosion-free & maintenance-free throughout service life

Why Use Polypropylene Plain Fittings?

Polypropylene is one of the most versatile thermoplastics used in modern industrial pipeline construction. Compared to many alternative materials, PP offers an excellent balance of cost efficiency, chemical resistance and thermal stability, making it a popular choice for both new installations and system upgrades.

Chemflo polypropylene fittings are manufactured using high heat-stabilised block copolymer (PP-B), providing:

  • Superior impact resistance, even at sub-zero temperatures
  • Increased toughness compared to homopolymer polypropylene
  • Improved reliability in mechanically stressed systems

This makes polypropylene plain fittings ideal for installations where long service life and minimal downtime are essential.


Properties & Advantages of Polypropylene Pipe Fittings

  • Smooth Bore
    • The smooth internal surface reduces friction, resulting in:
      • Lower pressure loss
      • Improved flow efficiency
      • Reduced risk of build-up and contamination
  • Ductility & Flexibility
    • Polypropylene fittings can deform under load and return to their original shape, allowing:
      • Compensation for ground movement when buried
      • Easier alignment during installation
      • Cold-pull bending for minor adjustments
  • Lightweight Construction
    • With a lower density than many thermoplastics, polypropylene:
      • Is easier to transport and install
      • Reduces handling strain on site
      • Floats in water, aiding certain installation scenarios
  • Corrosion & Wear Resistance
    • PP will not corrode, rot or degrade, even when:
      • Buried underground
      • Embedded in concrete
      • Exposed to aggressive chemicals or slurries
  • Thermal & UV Performance
    • Excellent heat insulation properties
    • Reduced condensation compared to metal systems
    • Suitable for outdoor use in UK conditions (beige-grey PP)

Chemical Resistance & Media Compatibility

Polypropylene exhibits exceptionally high resistance to a wide range of chemicals, including:

  • Acids and alkalis
  • De-ionised and de-mineralised water
  • Alcohols and sugar solutions
  • Brines and salts

Water absorption is extremely low, with less than 0.2% weight increase after prolonged immersion at room temperature. While PP is resistant to most inorganic chemicals, strong oxidising agents at elevated temperatures should be assessed carefully.


Typical Applications

Polypropylene plain fittings are widely used across industrial sectors, including:

  • Chemical processing and transfer systems
  • Pharmaceutical and biotechnology facilities
  • Hospital and laboratory drainage
  • Water treatment plants
  • Brewing, distilling and food production
  • Effluent and waste treatment
  • Ultra-pure water systems
  • Fume removal and ducting
  • Plating, pickling and etching lines

Polypropylene Imperial Fittings Range - What’s Available?

This category includes a comprehensive range of plain (socket) polypropylene fittings designed to create secure, high-performance pipe systems:

Straight & Connection Fittings

  • Plain sockets - for joining pipe lengths
  • Reducing bushes - for connecting different pipe sizes
  • Plain unions - allow easy disconnection for maintenance

Directional & Branch Fittings

  • 90° elbows - for sharp directional changes
  • 45° elbows - for smoother flow transitions
  • 90° bends - long-radius flow control
  • Equal tees - branching pipework evenly

End & Termination Fittings

  • End caps - seal pipe ends
  • Blanking flanges (NP10/16) - close flanged systems

Flanges & Transition Components

  • Stub flanges - for use with backing rings
  • Full face flanges (NP10/16) - for bolted flange connections
  • Plain x threaded sockets & nipples - connect PP pipework to BSP threaded systems

This broad range allows complete system design using compatible polypropylene components throughout.


Socket Fusion Welding Guide

What is Socket Fusion?

Socket fusion (also known as polyfusion) is a heat-welding process where the outside of the pipe and the inside of the fitting socket are heated simultaneously using a dedicated fusion tool. Once softened, the components are pushed together to form a permanent, leak-free joint.

The welded joint becomes as strong as the pipe itself, with no seals, adhesives or mechanical fasteners required.

Equipment Required

To achieve a reliable socket fusion joint, you will need:

Important: Always use heater bushes that exactly match the pipe and fitting size. Incorrect sizing is the most common cause of failed joints.

Recommended Welding Temperature

  • Fusion tool temperature: 260°C ±10°C
  • Allow the tool to fully stabilise before welding
  • Never weld below temperature or with contaminated heater surfaces

Step-by-Step Socket Fusion Process

1. Cut the Pipe Square

  • Cut the PP pipe cleanly and square to ensure full, even contact inside the fitting socket

2. Chamfer and Clean

  • Lightly chamfer the pipe end to ease insertion
  • Remove burrs and debris
  • Wipe both pipe and fitting with a clean, dry cloth
  • Cleanliness is critical - dirt or moisture will weaken the weld.

3. Mark the Insertion Depth

  • Insert the pipe into the fitting without heat and mark the insertion depth on the pipe using a marker pen
  • This prevents over-insertion during welding, which can restrict bore diameter

4. Heat the Components

  • Place the pipe onto the external heater spigot
  • Place the fitting onto the internal heater socket
  • Apply firm, even pressure only - do not twist
  • Always follow the manufacturer’s time chart for your welding machine

5. Remove and Join Immediately

  • Remove pipe and fitting simultaneously
  • Push the pipe straight into the fitting up to the depth mark
  • Do not twist or rotate
  • Hold firmly in position

6. Cooling Time

  • Hold joint steady for 10 - 30 seconds (size dependent)
  • Allow full cooling before applying stress or pressure
  • Do not accelerate cooling with water or air

Visual Check - What a Good Weld Looks Like

Even, symmetrical fusion bead around the joint No bead / uneven bead
Pipe fully seated to depth mark Twisting marks
No burn marks, gaps or distortion Pipe pushed past depth mark
Bore remains smooth and unrestricted Oval or collapsed socket

Downloads

Socket Fusion Welding Guide

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

 

Loading...