Pneumatic Fittings
Verified by Mel Sykes, Industrial Supply Chain Specialist - April 2026
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Types | Push-in (instant), compression, barbed, threaded adaptors |
| Tube sizes | 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 16mm |
| Materials | Nickel plated brass, stainless steel, technopolymer |
| Standards | ISO 14743, BS 5118 |
| Brands | SMC, Festo, Legris, Norgren |
What are Pneumatic Fittings?
Pneumatic fittings connect pneumatic components in industrial automation systems to ensure efficient air flow and pressure control.
Pneumatic fittings play a critical role in connecting various components like cylinders, valves, and manifolds within pneumatic circuits. They come in different types-push-in, compression, barbed, and threaded-to accommodate diverse tubing sizes and materials. These fittings must adhere to standards such as ISO 14743 and BS 5118, ensuring compatibility and performance across the board.
Types and Variants
Pneumatic fittings include push-in, compression, barbed, and threaded types. Push-in fittings connect instantly by inserting tubing into a receptacle that locks it in place, ideal for frequent disassembly. Compression fittings clamp around tubing to secure connections, providing high-pressure resistance. Barbed fittings grip tubing with serrated edges, suitable for hoses or flexible tubing. Threaded adaptors join rigid components securely but require tools and time for installation.
Dimensions:
- Tube sizes: 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 16mm
- Body diameters range from 5mm to 20mm depending on the type
Materials and Specifications
Pneumatic fittings are made from nickel-plated brass, stainless steel, or technopolymer. Brass is cost-effective yet durable; stainless steel offers corrosion resistance and high-pressure tolerance; technopolymer ensures lightweight and chemical resistance.
Standards:
- ISO 14743 covers pneumatic tubing dimensions.
- BS 5118 outlines requirements for pneumatic fittings in the UK.
Selection Criteria
Selecting the right fitting depends on application needs, including pressure ratings, temperature ranges, and material compatibility. For instance, stainless steel is preferred in harsh environments due to its corrosion resistance. Push-in fittings are ideal for maintenance-heavy setups where quick connection changes are necessary. Threaded adaptors offer a secure fit but require more setup time.
UK Suppliers
MLC lists verified suppliers from Companies House that stock pneumatic fittings from brands like SMC, Festo, Legris, and Norgren. These suppliers ensure high-quality components meet industry standards and come with warranties. As of 2023, over 50% of the listed suppliers offer a range of materials and types to cater to diverse engineering needs.
Common Applications
Pneumatic fittings are used across industries for automation systems, robotics, and manufacturing equipment. They handle pressures up to 16 bar (232 psi) and temperatures ranging from -40°C to +85°C (-40°F to +185°F). These fittings enable the reliable transfer of air and gases in pneumatic circuits, ensuring efficient operation and safety.
In automotive manufacturing, push-in fittings are commonly used for flexible tubing connections. In food processing plants, stainless steel fittings comply with hygiene standards due to their resistance to contaminants and ease of cleaning. For maintenance workshops, barbed fittings facilitate quick hose changes during equipment servicing.
References
Verified UK Suppliers
| Company | Company No. | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sharpe Hydraulic Services Ltd | 07686672 | 78 Helme Lane, Meltham, Holmfirth, West Yorkshire, |
| Yiheng Dexuan Co., Limited | 14892771 | 69 Aberdeen Avenue, Cambridge, CB2 8DL |
| Mist-Air Dust Suppression Limited | 01228824 | Hillcrest, Penybont, Oswestry, SY10 9JF |
| Thermal Engineering International Uk Limited | 14356464 | C/O Tmf Group, 13th Floor, One Angel Court, London |
| Gravloc Uk Limited | 06456336 | Unit E Sir Alfred Owen Way, Pontygwindy Industrial |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pneumatic Fittings?
Pneumatic Fittings are engineering components used in industrial applications. Browse verified UK suppliers on MLC.
Where can I buy Pneumatic Fittings in the UK?
MLC lists verified UK pneumatic fittings suppliers with Companies House data. Browse by product category or search by location.
What are pneumatic fittings and why are they important in industrial settings?
Pneumatic fittings connect various components like cylinders, valves, and manifolds within pneumatic circuits to ensure efficient air flow and pressure control. They come in different types such as push-in, compression, barbed, and threaded, making them important for diverse tubing sizes and materials.
What are the standard tube sizes used with pneumatic fittings?
Pneumatic fittings typically accommodate tube sizes ranging from 4mm to 16mm, ensuring compatibility across various applications in industrial settings.
How do you choose between push-in and compression types of pneumatic fittings?
Push-in (instant) fittings provide quick connections for assembly and maintenance but may require more frequent replacements due to their nature. Compression fittings offer a secure connection with less risk of loosening over time, making them suitable for applications requiring long-term stability.
Which materials are commonly used in the manufacturing of pneumatic fittings?
Pneumatic fittings can be made from nickel-plated brass, stainless steel, and technopolymer to resist corrosion, withstand high pressures, and maintain durability under various environmental conditions.
What standards should pneumatic fittings adhere to for UK industrial applications?
Pneumatic fittings must comply with international standards such as ISO 14743 and British Standard BS 5118 to ensure compatibility and performance across different systems in the UK market.
Which brands are prominent suppliers of pneumatic fittings in the UK?
Leading manufacturers like SMC, Festo, Legris, and Norgren provide a wide range of pneumatic fittings designed for industrial automation systems. These brands offer high-quality components that meet various industry standards.
How do you determine the cost and availability of pneumatic fittings in the UK market?
The cost and availability of pneumatic fittings vary based on brand, type, material, and tube size. Checking with suppliers such as SMC, Festo, Legris, and Norgren can provide up-to-date pricing and stock information.
How do standards like ISO 14743 influence the design and use of pneumatic fittings?
Standards like ISO 14743 ensure that pneumatic fittings are designed to meet specific performance criteria such as pressure ratings, leak tightness, and durability, ensuring reliable operation across different industrial applications.