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:
Socket fusion welding machine (polyfusion tool)
Correct heater bushes and spigots for the pipe size