Applications of Flared vs Flareless Fittings

Within the realm of aerospace, there are often hundreds or thousands of components that come together to make a vehicle, piece of aerospace equipment, or infrastructure. These parts may also come in a variety of types, and understanding their different functions and features can aid in knowing which one is best for a given application. Fittings are used within piping or tubing as a means to connect pieces, as well as seal and regulate flow. Both flared and flareless fitting types are regularly used for aerospace systems, and understanding their differences is important.

 Within military and aerospace applications, as well as thin to medium wall tubing, flared fittings are often the most utilized. Flaring helps to seal and secure a piping system, and they often feature a nut to help tighten them against the sleeve. Flared fittings are beneficial when used with heavy machinery, as well as industrial, construction, and military equipment. When using flared fittings for aerospace and military applications, AN (Army-Navy) parts are optimal.

 Flareless fittings, on the other hand, are the most practical type for medium to high pressure systems. For optimal sealing of high pressure systems, flareless tubing may often have very thick walls, making them much more useful as compared to flared fittings in this regard. Flareless fittings that are MS standard parts are usually installed within systems that feature high vibration and stress, making their ability to withstand great pressures very critical.

 When deciding whether you need a flared or flareless fitting, it is important to consider the application that you plan to use it for. Factors that can affect the decision should include the wall tubing size, pressure, amount of vibration, and stressors that the fittings will have to endure. For more critical applications, there is also always the option of utilizing AN or MS standard parts as well.

At ASAP 360 Unlimited, owned and operated by ASAP Semiconductor, we can help you find aerospace equipment and ferrule parts you need, new or obsolete. As a premier supplier of parts for the aerospace, civil aviation, and defense industries, we're always available and ready to help you find all the parts and equipment you need, 24/7x365.