Single Ferrule Vs Double Ferrule Fittings
Demanding industrial applications require utmost precision and secure technologies to safeguard from influences that could ruin a project. These may include leakage from thermal vibration or pulsation within an application. In all cases, the safety of the operator and their working environment is business-critical.
Senior project managers are often presented with an abundance of options when choosing fittings for instrumentation, process and control systems, and other equipment. At the end of the day, users just need a solution that is risk-free, leakage-free, and simple enough to use without breaking the budget.
Compression fittings generally do just that. These ferrule pipe fittings are generally used to connect two imperial tubes, and two metric tubes, and the connection of a metric tube to an imperial tube.
The common size range is between 1/8 to 2 inches / 4mm to 50mm. Compression fittings are rated to the optimal working pressure of the tubing it connects to.
Ferrule Fittings Types
Stainless steel compression tube fittings are used for a range of applications in different industrial settings. Twin ferrule fitting types are preferred for higher working pressures and harsh applications. This also makes twin ferrule fittings a safe choice for the full gamut of low-pressure operation right through to high-pressure. So, there are two Ferrule Fittings Types, and what are the main differences between single-ferrule and double-ferrule tube fittings?
Single ferrule compression fittings
Single ferrule fittings have comparatively fewer pressure ratings than their twin-ferruled counterpart. These compression fittings are designed with the consideration of the operators’ ease of use, having one less part than twin ferrule fittings types, and are generally difficult to be installed incorrectly.
Despite its benefits, double ferrule fittings are generally the preferred option.
Why is industry still using single ferrule fittings?
Single ferrule compression fittings are slightly less expensive for low-pressure applications where there is no risk of pressures increasing or accidentally mixing the two ferrule fitting types. Even double ferrule fittings have a higher pressure rating and a perfect connection, making them a popular choice in the industry.
Double ferrule compression fittings
Double ferrule (or two-ferrule, twin-ferrule depending on the manufacturer) compression fittings are produced in various materials, but the size ranges are identical to single ferrule fittings. Double ferrule compression fittings provide a perfect connection thanks to their strong mechanical grip design. The fittings can be used for tubing with various thicknesses and different hardness levels.
Design of double ferrule tube fittings
The basic design of a double ferrule tube fitting consists of four main pieces:
- Nut
- Front ferrule
- Back ferrule
- Body
Some very advanced fittings may have additional parts such as a tightness indicator.
Double ferrule compression systems are designed to give a tight grip around the tubing, minus any damage to the wall. The ferrule inside is designed to perform as the locking ferrule, while the outer ferrule provides its sealing capability.
Due to its robust design to withstand high temperatures, pressures, and vibration levels, it is without question one of the best choices for applications within an industrial setting.
Reference Link: https://www.ibexaustralia.com.au/resources/single-ferrule-v-double-ferrule-compression-fittings
