A piping system is made up of several units, which help to continue the flow in the system. Amongst all of these fittings is a reducer. These products help in controlling the characteristics of flow across the piping system. These components come in two major categories concentric and eccentric. We will discuss in detail what each of these components is used for and how the entire module works within the broad industry.
How does a pipe reducer work?
An ASME B16.9 reducer helps in connecting and adapting pipes of different sizes together within the system. This helps in reducing the size of 2 corresponding pipes in the pipeline. The length of the reduction is based on the average of the larger and smaller pipe diameters. There could be many reasons to incur such a change in the system. One major reason for this change could be the flow has rapidly expanded or reduced within the line. The components help keep the hydraulic nature and the demands of the piping system in check.
The main function of a reducer is to adapt pipes of different sizes and control the flow within the system. The functionality of these components depends on the material used to produce them along with the corresponding items, which they will be fitted on. This makes it very important for consumers to select the item of the right size, which meets the right specifications.
What is the difference between eccentric and concentric?
These components are the two types of reducing apparatus, which are used in several applications. They may look difficult to differentiate, however they can be identified easily.
- Concentric reducers reduce the pipe from the center, while eccentric reduce it from the side.
- The cone-shaped concentric structures have matched centerlines with the pipe. The other component has a mismatched centerline.
- Concentric modules are the most commonly used items. An eccentric module is mostly used in maintaining the same top or bottom level. They are mostly used in applications where both air and liquids are flowing together.
- Eccentric units can collect liquids and gases if they are not aligned, properly while the other module ensures a smooth passage for different types of solvents.
When would you use a concentric reducer?
These modules are used to join different sections of tubes and pipes if they are on the same axis. They are used when there is a shift seen within the diameter of two pipes. It is the preferred choice of reducers in this range as it has little to no complications. The cone-shaped modules are conducive to the flow and don’t interfere in any way or form with it when its diameter is reduced. This is why they are used in gas and vertical liquid flow pipelines.
What is the purpose of an eccentric reducer?
These modules reduce the pipe size from the sides, which facilitated the transition from larger diameter sides. They possess an edge, which is placed parallel to the pipe. Since these connectors are asymmetric, they create an asymmetrical flow condition. This means that flow is faster on the angled side. They are very convenient for utilization in the exhaust and liquid discharge as one of the sides is flat making, them ideal for maintenance. However, they need to be properly aligned to prevent liquids from being accumulated in one corner.
What is the difference between swage and reducer?
Both these components are important items in several pipe fittings. They help in modifying the functionality of the pipe or related items by changing the characteristics of its flow. There are few differentiating factors, which separate them from each other.
Reducer
The components in this range are produced using a hot or cold rolling process making use of steel or seamless steel. Generally, beveled ends are preferred for these connectors. They are available in sizes between DN15 to DN3400 and can be used for all types of pipes and tubes.
Swage
These items are produced utilizing the forging process where a round bar or billet steel is used in their production. They have more than one end designated for connection with a diverse designs depending on the requirement. The components are available in sizes between DN6 to DN300 and are commonly used to connect butt-weld pipe to a socket weld or a screwed pipe.