Material selection is one of the most fundamental parts of any manufacturing service. And when it comes to material selection for fittings in fluid transfer systems, customers and manufacturers have to make the right choice the first time, or it can get costly fast.

RB Royal details how your HVAC fittings can last longer by selecting the proper materials ahead of manufacturing.

Common Materials for HVAC Fittings and Why They Are Used

HVAC fittings can be made with a few different types of materials, each with their own purpose, benefits, and applications. Let’s explore some common types of materials.

Copper

Used in refrigerant and chilled-water circuit systems
Strong corrosion resistance
Thermal conductivity

Brass

Many of the same benefits and uses as copper
Consider using dezincification-resistant brass in conditions where water chemistry is aggressive

Stainless Steel

One of the most popular choices for any type of HVAC fitting application, especially for outdoor applications
Often seen in humid, corrosive, or hygienic applications such as air conditioners and furnaces
Extremely corrosion resistant
Low-maintenance
Long service life

Carbon Steel

Whether the steel is treated (galvanized or coated steel) or not, carbon remains an excellent choice as a material for HVAC fittings in key applications.

Cost-effective material and strong for its price point
Protective coatings are needed to extend service life, especially in environments such as damp mechanical rooms and widespread duct systems

Proper Materials Lead to Fewer Failures

When customers and manufacturers identify the right material selection, HVAC fittings are less likely to fail for a variety of reasons.

Fittings can withstand their environments — moisture levels, temperature, atmospheric pressure, and other elements won’t impact fittings as much.
Design considerations can be made to highlight the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen material in order to maximize the product and minimize potential defects.
It’s critical to match the material to the fluids that are going to be used within the fittings to prevent wear and stress corrosion.

Why Selecting the Right Material Matters

Selecting the right materials for your HVAC fittings matters for two reasons. The first being the impacts of proper material choice.

HVAC fittings and systems as a whole are exposed to cyclic temperatures and pressures, condensation, and occasionally, chemically treated water. These parameters speed up corrosion and mechanical fatigue in systems. Selecting the right material for your fittings slows down any corrosion or fatigue. Wall thickness is maintained throughout systems while surfaces remain sealed.

The second reason why correct material selection matters is because of the defects improper selections can cause. Choosing the wrong materials can lead to pinhole leaks, cracked bodies, or even seized connections that can greatly impact HVAC systems, which in turn lead to unscheduled maintenance calls and, in the most drastic situations, full replacement services.

Contact RB Royal for Your HVAC Fittings Today

RB Royal got its start creating brass fittings in 1942. While we’ve expanded our capabilities to include manufacturing all components for fluid transfer systems, fittings are still a key service we provide to our customers.

At RB Royal, we know how critical fittings are to any HVAC system. With numerous materials at our disposal, we’re able to create the parts you need and in the time you need them.

Contact RB Royal today for fittings and all your fluid transfer system needs.

How Proper Material Selection Leads to Longer-Lasting HVAC Fittings