"American" in plumbing: quick disconnect (why the tapered part is popular with plumbers)

For repairs, plumbing work, a special part is needed to connect the pipes. "American" is a simplified name for such a detail. It is believed to have been first released in the United States. From this it got its name. Some say the part was created in Germany by a German engineer. There are other versions as well.

The design of the part consists of a union, a union nut. This connecting element is used by plumbers for heating, water supply.

pros

1. The main plus "American" - can be used several times (multiple assembly, disassembly). Only the gasket (rubber, polyurethane or paronite) deteriorates, which is easy to replace with a new one. An important advantage: suitable for pipes of different materials with external or internal thread.
2. No need to rotate pipes to connect. The part can be fastened in any position.

A connecting element is made of brass (nickel / chrome plating), stainless steel, cast iron, polypropylene. There are combined metal and polypropylene fittings. The connection is resistant to temperatures up to +120 gr. The pressure limit is indicated on the product itself.

This type of pipe connection is not only available with a threaded coupling. There are American ball valves and air vents on sale.

These taps are installed under drain barrels, sinks, etc.

What are the best (opinion of experienced plumbers)

1. "American" are classic (with a rubber gasket). Reliable connection, but it is required (when disassembling after a while) to change the rubber ring.

2. There are tapered parts (joint to joint). This type is more reliable. It turns out maximum tightness even without gasket. The part can withstand temperature extremes.

Important: When installing, do not forget to wind some fum tape on the tapered surface. The tape compensates for the possible skew on the cone and will not dig in anything. If the fum tape does not help, then go to the store and replace the defective part with a new one.

In appearance, the conical element is more bulky. But it is better suited for the installation of a coil heated towel rail, heating or hot water supply. The tapered part is resistant to high temperatures.

3. In addition, the connector can be angled or straight.