Making Pipe Unions
Added 2021-11-28 17:32:51 +0000 UTCHey Patrons!
In yesterday's video, I mentioned making pipe unions for my gas line, and I alluded to the existence of a parameterized model of them so that you can make them for any size pipe. Well, here is that model!
I have not included drawings, because while the model is parameterized, you still have to generate drawings for the resolved model with the dimensions you want. Parametric modeling has its limits. So really this file is only useful if you're already an avid Fusion 360 user.
If you are not a Fusion user, here's another way to get the information. This awesome fellow has broken down every single dimension on these fittings for every common pipe size into a giant table. This is just as good as my newfangled Fusion model for something like this.
https://supersimplex.yolasite.com/resources/24_Books_and_Resources/Pipe%20Union%20Specifications.pdf
(that table is from the build log of a Super Simplex from a fellow named David: https://supersimplex.yolasite.com . I don't technically have his permission to repost it here, but I hope he doesn't mind ☺️ )
Comments
I also enjoy making them because it's fun to make something yourself that seals perfectly! That's a very satisfying thing, and surprisingly easy with this tried-and-true seating-cone design.
Blondihacks
2021-11-29 20:19:28 +0000 UTCFunnily enough I was making some of these this weekend for a model steam plant project. I'd found Dave's drawings and table, which is very handy. Making your own is very useful when you need to swap sizes, like a 5/32 copper tube on a 3/8" fitting at one end and 1/4" fitting at the other. The cone needs a smaller through diameter, super simple to make. Jason
Jason Pitcher
2021-11-29 19:27:18 +0000 UTCYah, I think that fuel fittings or brake line fittings would definitely work in this application. I think the main reason model engineers like these scale-sized old fashioned pipe unions is for the period look and feel of them.
Blondihacks
2021-11-28 23:42:33 +0000 UTCI was thinking about small gas pipe unions. Automotive brake pipe and fuel pipe fittings are cheap and easily obtained. I personally have measured these fittings as leak free in excess of 500PSI ( hydraulic pressure). The CuNiFe pipe I have used in the past is rated at over 1000 PSI. Jus an idea in case you want to try. George. [Alias DeiselDoctor. (retired)]
George J Lowther
2021-11-28 18:24:14 +0000 UTC
