Almost every structure and building existing today has a plumbing system. One of the most important parts of the entire plumbing system is the pipe fittings.
Pipe fittings are used to connect many pipes together. The end result is a complete plumbing system. Two popular manufacturers of fittings are Gyrolok by Hoke and Swagelok. Read on to see how the fittings of the two companies differ.
Quick Comparison Table
| Specification | Gyrolok Pipe/Tube Fittings | Swagelok Pipe/Tube Fittings |
| Types of Fittings Available | Elbow fittings, Tee fittings, Cross fittings, Coupling fittings, Bushing fittings, Adapter fittings, Union fittings, and more | Elbow fittings, Tee fittings, Cross fittings, Coupling fittings, Bushing fittings, Adapter fittings, Union fittings, and more |
| Fitting Materials | Brass, 316 Stainless Steel, Monel, Hastelloy® C-276, Inconel, Titanium, Duplex 2205, Super Duplex 2507, and 254 SMO | 316 Stainless Steel, Brass, Alloy 400, Alloy 20, Alloy 600, Alloy 625, Alloy 825, Alloy C- 276, Aluminum, Carbon Steel, Nylon, PFA, PTFE, SAF 2507, Titanium (Grade 4), and Super Duplex Stainless Steel |
| Additional Features | Controlled ferrule drive and sizing angle, butt seal, and special high tolerance NPT thread specification | Completely leakproof, vibration fatigue resistance, no leakage related to rapid thermal expansion or contraction, easy installation, and resistance to corrosion |
Key Differences Between Gyrolok And Swagelok Pipe Fittings
After going through the comparison table, you should have a pretty good idea about all the characteristics and differences between the two different pipe fittings by the two companies.
Now, let’s go a bit more in-depth into the characteristics of the pipe fittings and really break down and analyze each different characteristic of the fittings by Gyrolok and Swagelok separately.
- Different Types of Fittings Sold
As was mentioned before, there are different types of pipe fittings for different functions and connecting purposes. Both companies sell the same basic types of pipe fittings.
Below is a brief overview of all the different types of pipe fittings that are sold-
- Elbow Fitting: These fittings change the flow of water between two pipes. They come in 90, 60, 45, and 22.5-degree bends.
- Tee Fitting: A fitting in the shape of a T. Is used to connect three pipes together.
- Cross Fitting: Shaped like a cross. It has four openings. Depending on the need, it can be one inlet and three outlets or three inlets and one outlet.
- Coupling Fitting: This fitting is used to connect two pipes. This is done by slipping it over the outside of the pipes.
- Bushing Fitting: This fitting has a big and small opening. It is used to connect two pipes of different sizes. The larger end fits inside the larger pipe while the smaller pipe is inserted in the smaller end of the fitting.
- Adapter Fitting: An adapter fitting is also used to connect two pipes of different sizes. For instance, it could be fitted on the end of one end of a regular pipe in order to allow a threaded connection at the other end of the fitting.
- Union Fitting: This fitting is similar to coupling fittings in the way that they both connect two similar pipes. The main difference is that a union fitting uses a nut or threaded ring in the middle to tighten and fit two pipes together.
- Cap Fitting: A cap fitting’s purpose is very simple. It is fitted at the end of a pipe to close it off and stop the flow of water.
- Plug Fitting: Like a cap, a plug fitting is also used to close a pipe off. The difference is that a plug fits into the threaded pipe opening rather than over it.
- Nipple Fitting: A nipple fitting is a short pipe section that has two threaded male openings on each end. Using this, two female threaded pipes are connected.
- Flange Fitting: This fitting is flat and round and creates a tight seal with bolts or clamps. It is mainly used when pipes pass through walls, ceilings, and floors.
But what they are made of?
- Pipe Fitting Materials
The fittings by both companies are made of a variety of different materials. Below is a list of materials used by each to make their fittings.
Gyrolok Fittings
- Brass, 316 Stainless Steel
- Monel
- Hastelloy® C-276
- Inconel
- Titanium
- Duplex 2205
- Super Duplex 2507
- 254 SMO
Swagelok Fittings
- 316 Stainless Steel
- Brass
- Alloy 400
- Alloy 20
- Alloy 600
- Alloy 625
- Alloy 825
- Alloy C- 276
- Aluminum
- Carbon Steel
- Nylon
- PFA
- PTFE
- SAF 2507
- Titanium (Grade 4)
- Super Duplex Stainless Steel
Are they are any extra features?
- Additional Features Of The Fittings
Finally, let us take a look at all the additional features and benefits of using the fittings by each company.
Gyrolok fittings have controlled ferrule drive and sizing angles. This helps to avoid any risks associated with over-tightening and also allows for multiple remakes.
Each fitting is also equipped with a butt seal. This seal provides an extra bit of protection against any possible leaks.
The fittings also have special high-tolerance NPT threads. This feature ensures maximum thread engagement. This in turn allows for a safer and more robust connection.
Swagelok fittings are manufactured in a way to be completely leakage-proof. The sturdy materials used to make them also provide vibration fatigue resistance.
Sometimes, due to changes in temperature, rapid thermal expansion or contraction of the pipe may take place leading to possible leakage. However, Swagelok fittings are made in such a way as to ensure that never happens.
Their fittings are also highly resistant to rust or corrosion.
Which Fitting Is Best?
Both Gyrolok and Swagelok have similar types of fittings made of mostly similar materials. However, when looking at the features, Swagelok does appear to edge out Gyrolok.
In either case, both Gyrolok and Swagelok have high quality fittings that will get the job done.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Gyrolok and Swagelok fittings are safely interchangeable.
A cheaper but still high quality alternative to Swagelok is DK-Lok
Gyrolok fittings are manufactured by Hoke.
Yes, Parker and Swagelok fittings are interchangeable.
Swagelok fittings can be safely used and interchanged with other brands.
Conclusion
Plumbing systems are essential for most buildings, whether commercial, residential, official or any other kind. And pipe fittings are an integral part of any plumbing system.
With that in mind, both Gyrolok and Swagelok are high quality fittings that are great for any plumbing system. Hopefully, this article on Gyrolok and Swagelok gave you all the information you were looking for.