Nibco

Buying Guide: Copper Sweat and Press Fittings

Copper Sweat Fittings
Sweat fittings include a 3/4 in. sweat by sweat 90 degree elbow, a 3/4 in. sweat tee, a 1 in. sweat reducing tee and a 3/4 in. sweat cap. Copper pipe adapters are also offered, such as a 1/2 in. copper sweat by 3/4 in. D FIP and a 3/8 in. copper by 1/2 in. D FIP. Compare the part number on your old fitting, and check the size and connection type on both ends.

Press System Fittings
Press couplings join copper water tube in sizes such as 1/2 in., 3/4 in., 1-1/4 in. and 1-1/2 in., and press female adapters come in sizes such as 1/2 in., 3/4 in. and 1 in. Press 45 degree elbows include 1/2 in., 3/4 in. and 1 in. sizes, and a 1/2 in. press 90 degree elbow is also offered. The press fittings can also be installed underground, so have a qualified technician make pressure-system connections.

Reducing Couplings and Street Elbows
Press reducing couplings include 1 in. press by 3/4 in. press, 1-1/4 in. press by 1 in. press and 3/4 in. FTG by 1/2 in. press sizes, and a 1 in. press repair coupling is also offered. A 3/4 in. CTS by CTS copper 45 degree street elbow is also available. Measure the old fitting or tube before ordering, and check each end for press, sweat, FTG or FIP.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Nibco make?
Nibco makes copper sweat fittings, including caps, elbows and tees, and copper press system fittings, including couplings, female adapters, elbows, reducing couplings and a repair coupling. It also makes copper pipe adapters and copper street elbows.

How do I choose the right size or connection type?
Match the size on your old fitting or pipe, such as 3/8 in. or 1 in., and check the connection type, such as sweat, press, FTG or FIP. Compare the part number on the old fitting, and measure the tube before ordering. Confirm your pipe is copper, since these press fittings join copper water tube.

Can Nibco press fittings be installed underground?
Yes, the press fittings can also be installed underground. For engineering and installation information, refer to Nibco's technical sheets and catalogs, and have a qualified technician make pressure-system connections.