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by Katie Reid on Fri, Mar 11, 2022 @ 12:03 PM
Swagelok's informational video describes how to select which materials to use for ferrules and fittings to match your tubing. Also see When Tube Fitting Material Should Not Match Tubing Material (Part 2).
Tubing comes in a variety of materials, but so do Swagelok tube fittings. So how do you know which material of fittings and ferrules to choose with your tubing? Generally we suggest that you use like materials with like materials. So if you have stainless steel tubing, use stainless steel ferrules and fittings. On plastic tubing, use plastic ferrules and fittings.
The reason for matching materials is simple: You want the ferrules to be stronger than the tubing so that the ferrules can swage onto the tubing and lock into place.
Matching materials means the parts won't fight each other
If the ferrules are made of softer material than the tubing, you won't get that swaging action. Brass, for instance, is softer than stainless steel. So brass ferrules won't give you the full swaging action on stainless steel tubing.
Review our video to be guided through how to properly choose the fittings, ferrules, and tubing materials to match your applications.
There are exceptions
There are exceptions, like copper tubing and glass tubing. We will tackle those in our next article on this topic. Meantime, we've produced a short video that shows you what we are talking about.
Your applications might be unique, so if you still have any questions or concerns please call Edmonton Valve & Fitting at 780-437-0640 or send a note through our contact page. We would be happy to help you find the right materials to ensure your fluid systems are installed correctly.