What Is the Difference Between Forged And Wrought Fittings?

When it comes to piping systems, fittings play a critical role in ensuring that the system functions properly. Fittings are used to connect pipes and change the direction of the flow of fluid or gas through the system. There are two types of fittings that are commonly used in piping systems: forged and wrought fittings. While these two types of fittings may look similar, there are some significant differences between them. In this article, we'll explore the difference between forged and wrought fittings.

Forged Fittings:

Forged fittings are made by shaping a piece of metal using a hammer or a press. The process of forging involves heating the metal to a high temperature and then shaping it while it's still hot. Forged fittings are usually made from carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy steel. These fittings are highly durable and can withstand high pressures and temperatures. They are commonly used in industries such as oil and gas, chemical, and petrochemical.

Forged fittings are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and types. Some of the most common types of forged fittings include:

• Elbows: These are fittings that are used to change the direction of the flow of fluid or gas in a piping system. Elbows are available in different angles, including 45 degrees, 90 degrees, and 180 degrees.

• Tees: These are fittings that are used to connect three pipes or tubes together. They are available in different configurations, including equal tees and reducing tees.

• Couplings: These are fittings that are used to connect two pipes or tubes together. Couplings can be threaded or welded.

• Caps: These are fittings that are used to seal the end of a pipe or tube. Caps are available in different sizes and shapes.

 Elbow 90° Internal And External Threads

Wrought Fittings:

Wrought fittings, also known as butt-weld fittings, are made by bending and shaping a piece of metal into a desired shape. The process of making wrought fittings involves heating the metal to a high temperature and then bending and shaping it while it's still hot. Wrought fittings are commonly made from carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy steel.

Wrought fittings are available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and types. Some of the most common types of wrought fittings include:

• Elbows: These are fittings that are used to change the direction of the flow of fluid or gas in a piping system. Elbows are available in different angles, including 45 degrees, 90 degrees, and 180 degrees.

• Tees: These are fittings that are used to connect three pipes or tubes together. They are available in different configurations, including equal tees and reducing tees.

• Reducers: These are fittings that are used to connect two pipes or tubes of different sizes together. Reducers are available in concentric and eccentric configurations.

• Caps: These are fittings that are used to seal the end of a pipe or tube. Caps are available in different sizes and shapes.

Differences between Forged and Wrought Fittings:

While forged and wrought fittings may look similar, there are some significant differences between them. Some of the key differences include:

Manufacturing Process:

Forged fittings are made by shaping a heated piece of metal under pressure with the help of a hydraulic or mechanical press. The process produces fittings with a homogeneous structure, higher density, and superior strength. Forged fittings are typically made from carbon steel, stainless steel, or alloy steel.

Wrought fittings, on the other hand, are made by shaping metal using a combination of mechanical deformation, heat treatment, and machining. Wrought fittings are typically made from brass, copper, aluminum, or stainless steel.

Properties:

Forged fittings have a higher density and strength than wrought fittings. The forging process makes the fittings less prone to cracking, and they have a uniform grain structure. Forged fittings are also more resistant to corrosion, erosion, and high-pressure applications.

Wrought fittings have a lower density and strength than forged fittings but are easier to shape and form. They are suitable for applications where the pressure is low, and the corrosion resistance requirement is not very high.

Applications:

Forged fittings are used in high-pressure and high-temperature applications, such as in the petrochemical, oil and gas, and power generation industries. Examples of forged fittings include socket weld and threaded fittings, such as elbows, tees, and couplings.

Wrought fittings are commonly used in plumbing and low-pressure applications, such as in the food and beverage industry, water supply, and heating and cooling systems. Examples of wrought fittings include pipe fittings, such as elbows, tees, and unions.

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