Though they may seem quite simple in nature, thermometers can be quite complex. Even better, there is a wide array of accessories that can enhance your overall experience and make improvements to the performance of the thermometer.One of those accessories is a compression fitting. Though we think of them for things like pipe fitting, they actually have uses as accessories for thermometers. Let’s take a deeper look at compression fittings and all they have to offer.
What is a Compression Fitting?
The first thing to learn about compression fittings is what they are. They are an accessory to thermometers of all kinds, whether they be used for food, medical, industrial, or anything else. These are typically made of copper, brass, or stainless steel.
These fittings connect the measuring environment and the sheathing thermocouple. Compression fittings are great for creating a more precise installation length with additional stability for the thermometer itself. Each material and type of compression fitting has its own unique benefits and applications. Do your homework and look at what each kind of compression fitting can provide before ultimately making your decision.
The Perks of Compression Fittings
So long as you are using the right temperature measurement tool, a compression fitting can be attached in no time at all. Depending on which kind you get, there are some inherent benefits involved. Be aware of those differences going into it to avoid getting the wrong kind.
Just about every compression fitting makes the thermocouple easier to install. Length can be adjusted to create a firmer clamping with a proper airtight fitting. Most of these are interchangeable and some are even reusable. Even if they aren’t, they can be swapped out in no time. If you need something to hold up against degradation, then a stainless steel compression fitting may be the best possible option.
The Different Types of Compression Fittings
Another factor worth checking out when looking for compression fittings is determining what type of fitting you want or need. There are a handful of different types of compression fitting, each coming with its own unique purpose and set of benefits.
Stainless Steel. Both the housing and compression cone on these are made out of stainless steel. That combination makes the fittings particularly good at standing up to extreme temperatures and conditions. They are pressure-tight, creating a connection that will not wager or fail.
Ceramic. These are very similar to the aforementioned stainless steel fitting with one difference. Instead of the stainless steel cone, a ceramic compression holds up against vibrations and extreme temperatures very well. The one caveat here is that you cannot use a ceramic fitting again. They’re cheap but you’ll need to buy a few if you use them on a regular basis.
Brass. Having a cone made of brass is also resistant to temperature while absorbing vibrations. The temperature usage of brass is a bit lower than stainless steel but brass cones have better compression fitting behavior and smaller diameters when it comes to sheathing. Brass is pressure-tight, reasonably cheap in cost, and creates a sturdy connection. That said, when you install a brass compression fitting, it cannot be removed.
Teflon. Though not as commonly used as stainless steel, ceramic, or brass, compression cones made of Teflon provide one major advantage. These cones can be replaced very quickly and can also be modified to meet any length needs. The major downside is that you can’t reuse Teflon cones more than once. They are cheap but must be replaced after each use. They also have relatively low-temperature restrictions, roughly 200C at the most.