Although there are many types of fittings for PE pipes, the ones used most commonly comprise of two types:
- Fusion Fittings
Fusion fittings fuse on to the pipe and result in a leak-free, durable joint. Fusion requires a heater element and adapters corresponding to the sizes of the pipes.
- Compression Fittings
Compresson fittings are mechanical in nature. They do not require a heater element like fusion fittings, and are simply applied to the pipe and tightened with hands. The design of the fittings is such that the tightening allows the fitting to grip strongly to the pipe and a rubber seal ensures prevention of leakages.
Compression fittings are more expensive than Fusion fittings. It is for this reason that Fusion fittings are preferred over compression fitings, but at the same time require a higher skill level for jointing. The following fittings (compression and fusion) are available at Sun International:
