A pipe nipple is a short section of pipe with a male (external) thread on one end or both ends. It connects to female-threaded components such as valves, elbows and tees, and can provide additional space between components.
Before ordering, identify what each end will connect to, the required length and the thread type used by the mating components. The same nominal size does not always mean that two components can be connected.
How Are Pipe Nipples Used?
A valve and a tee with female threads cannot be screwed directly into each other. A pipe nipple threaded at both ends can connect them. Another example is extending a connection from a tee to equipment located farther away, using a nipple of the required installation length.
| Application | What the Pipe Nipple Does |
|---|---|
| Connecting a valve to a female-threaded fitting | A nipple threaded at both ends connects the components. |
| Extending a connection from a tee | Adds distance between the branch connection and another component. |
| Replacing a part during maintenance | Replaces the existing nipple with one that matches its specifications. |
| Assembly to a custom drawing | Provides the specified end configuration and installation length. |
Choosing One Threaded End or Two Threaded Ends
Choose the end configuration according to how each end will connect. If both mating components have female threads, use a nipple threaded at both ends. If only one end requires a threaded connection, use a nipple threaded at one end and clearly specify the other end, for example, one threaded end and one butt-weld end.
| Connection Requirement | Recommended End Configuration |
|---|---|
| Connecting two female-threaded components | Male threads at both ends. |
| One threaded connection and one end prepared for welding to a drawing | One threaded end, with the other end clearly specified. |
| Replacing an existing part | Check both ends and match the end configuration and thread length to the original part. |
Product lists and drawings may use the following abbreviations for pipe end configurations:
- TOE — Threaded One End: one end is threaded.
- TBE — Threaded Both Ends: both ends are threaded.
S.K. Fitting Valve manufactures pipe nipples with one threaded end or two threaded ends, and can machine NPT, BSPT and BSPP threads to customer specifications.
How Do Pipe Nipples Differ from Couplings and Hex Nipples?
The differences are in their thread configuration and body shape.
| Fitting Type | Main Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Pipe nipple threaded at both ends | A section of pipe with male threads at both ends. |
| Threaded coupling | A fitting with female threads at both ends. |
| Hex nipple | A male-threaded fitting with a hexagonal section in the middle. |
If a purchase request only says “nipple,” specify whether you need a pipe nipple or a hex nipple, or attach a reference photo so the supplier can quote the correct product.
What Is the Difference Between NPT, BSPT and BSPP Threads?
NPT and BSPT are tapered threads, while BSPP is a parallel thread. In addition to the thread type, check how the connection is designed to seal.
| Thread Type | Thread Form | What to Check |
|---|---|---|
| NPT | Tapered | Confirm that the mating component is specified for NPT threads. |
| BSPT | Tapered | Check the mating component’s thread details against its drawing or manual. |
| BSPP | Parallel | Check the sealing face and sealing components required at the connection. |
For BSPP connections, check the sealing method specified by the equipment design, such as a gasket or O-ring. Do not use thread-seal tape as a substitute for the specified sealing method. For tapered threads, select sealing materials and assembly methods according to the requirements of the equipment.
Information to Prepare Before Ordering Pipe Nipples
Prepare the following details when requesting a quotation. If you have a part drawing, attach it for the supplier to review.
- Material and grade required for the application.
- Pipe size, including the unit or nominal size designation.
- Wall thickness, stated as a schedule (SCH) or a drawing dimension.
- Overall end-to-end length, including the unit.
- End configuration: one threaded end or two threaded ends, with details of any unthreaded end.
- Thread standard for each end: NPT, BSPT or BSPP.
- Required quantity.
- A drawing or reference photo for a custom part.
Example Quotation Request
Please quote pipe nipples in [material grade], pipe size [size], wall thickness [SCH], overall length [length and unit], with [one threaded end/two threaded ends], [thread standard for each end], quantity [quantity]. A drawing or reference photo is attached.
For a replacement part, send photos of both ends along with measured dimensions. Photos alone may not be enough to identify the thread type.
See our pipe nipples and threaded fittings for more product information.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pipe Nipples
Both can connect female-threaded components, but their shapes and installation lengths differ. A hex nipple has a hexagonal section for gripping with a wrench. Specify the product name and attach a reference photo if you are unsure.
Do not substitute one for another simply because the nominal sizes are the same. Check that the mating thread standard and sealing arrangement match the equipment.
S.K. Fitting Valve manufactures pipe nipples to the required length. Provide the overall length, end configuration and thread details, or send a drawing for review before a quotation is prepared.
Start with the drawing, bill of materials, manual or model information for the equipment you will connect. If no documents are available, send photos and measured dimensions for an initial check. The thread may need to be measured on the actual part before it can be confirmed.
The price depends on the material, size, wall thickness, length, thread machining requirements and order quantity. Request a quotation based on the specifications you need.
Ask S.K. Fitting Valve About Pipe Nipples and Custom Production
S.K. Fitting Valve manufactures and supplies pipe nipples with one threaded end or two threaded ends, offers custom lengths, and machines NPT, BSPT and BSPP threads to specification.
Send your specifications or part drawing via LINE @skfitting to ask about your requirements and request a quotation, or visit our pipe nipple product page.
