The Effects of Overtightening Compression Tube Fittings

Many installers don't follow the proper tightening techniques, leaving room for error. Tighter isn't always better if you're over-tightening, and judging what's "tight enough" is risky. Fitting torque can vary widely based on tubing wall thickness, fitting manufacturer, or factors like tubing side-load. Many installers don't even know what a gap gauge is, or how to use one.

Properly sealed tube fitting connections are crucial. These systems often route high pressure, high temperature, or even hazardous chemicals. Undoubtedly, any gasses leaking could mean huge risks to personnel, property, and the environment.

Diagnosing/Fixing Over-Tightening Issues

1 - If You Can't Disassemble the Fitting
During maintenance, it's common for workers to disassemble compression connections. After loosening the nut, the tubing should come away easily. Once disassembled, if the tubing is yet married to the fitting, inspect that union for signs of over-tightening.
The tubing will bulge and stick inside of the fitting if the ferrules are overly secure.
If you can't disassemble the valve or fitting, it's a good indicator that the connection is too tight. The only thing to do, is to remove and replace the fitting in question. Additionally, you'll need to replace any tubing run that you can't remove from the fitting.

2 - The Fittings or Tubing are Becoming Deformed
If proper tightening procedures aren't followed, it's possible for tubing or fittings to become deformed. To identify this on fittings, look at the wrench flats of the fitting. If the corners are starting to round over, the fitting has likely been strained. On tubing, it's harder to see the deformation without disassembling the fitting. Inside the fitting, the ferrules will begin to crush the tubing. This constricts flow and thins the wall of the tubing. Subsequently, this increase of local pressure and weakening of the tubing, will cause compression fittings to catastrophically release the tubing.

3 - What if the Valve Breaks
Look for cracks near valve connection points, this could be a sign of over-tightening. Though valve breakage is rare, never underestimate a poorly trained installer with a big wrench.

4 - You Start Having Leaks
This one may seem self-explanatory, but if you're experiencing leaks, now is the perfect time to check for over-tightened connections. First, inspect the fitting gap with a gap gauge to rule out under-tightening. If your gauge does not fit, it's time to start looking for the other signs of over-tightening.

The Number One Avoidance Technique

The best way to solve these issues is to remove human error from the equation. Superlok i-Fitting eliminates human error by including a gap gauge on every fitting. Just tighten until the red ring snaps away for a perfect leak-free seal every time. Superlok fittings change to a blue color once tightened, meaning that you can see from a distance if a fitting is secure.

If you must use a traditional tube fitting, follow the manufacturer's installation procedure, use your gap gauge on every fitting, and mark fittings as you complete them. This makes for a safer work environment.

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Mako Products is an integrity and customer service focused supplier of industry-leading, high quality, precision plumbing components. This includes everything from our own lines of ball valves and needle valves to being the exclusive source for Superlok i-Fitting Compression fittings and valves in the USA.

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This release was published on openPR.