What’s the Difference Between Medium and High Pressure Tube Fittings?

Since 1977, Hy-Lok Canada has been one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of high-performance fluid system components, including valves, fittings, and more. Our dedication to engineering top-quality products and providing exceptional customer service has made Hy-Lok Canada a top choice for reliable solutions across multiple industries, including oil & gas, cryogenics, instrumentation, biotechnology, and more.

Tube fitting pressure ratings play a critical role in determining which components are suitable for your applications. To help get you started, here’s a brief overview of the difference between typical medium and high-pressure tube fittings and how to decide which connectors are right for your fluid system.

Medium vs. High-Pressure Tube Fittings

While medium and high-pressure fittings may appear similar from the outside, they are constructed fundamentally differently and are suitable for different applications.

A “medium-pressure” connector has comparatively large bore sizes that cab accommodate pressures up to 20,000 psi at 100ºF. In contrast, “high-pressure” fittings have significantly smaller bore sizes. The additional material inside the fitting increases its strength, allowing it to withstand working pressures of up to 60,000 psi.

While medium and high-pressure tube fittings are not interchangeable, adapters are available that may be suitable in certain situations. Regardless of adapters or fitting types, never exceed the recommended operating pressure of any given component to prevent system failure and equipment damage.

Which Tube Fittings Are Right for Your Fluid System?

Understanding the technical differences between tube fittings is all well and good, but selecting the right components for your fluid system is what will ultimately bring value to your operation.

When selecting components for your fluid system, Hy-Lok Canada generally recommends choosing parts with a higher pressure rating than required, where possible. Not only will these components continue to function if another part of your system fails, but valves with higher pressure ratings will typically last longer than those with lower pressure ratings, saving your operation money on repairs and replacement costs.

If you need help selecting the right components, our expert sales team is happy to assist! Our knowledgeable and highly-experienced team will help you choose the right components, specifications, and materials to keep your fluid system running smoothly, all at an exceptional value.

Don’t forget to ask about our coning tools, threading tools, and tube vises that make installation of your Hy-Lok tube fittings quick and easy.

Connected Across Canada

With an extensive network of distributors across the country, Hy-Lok is the clear choice for Canadian industry. Our medium and high-pressure tube fittings are always readily available, and custom orders are fulfilled quickly and efficiently. With expedited shipping available, your operation can rely on Hy-Lok to supply quality components for fluid systems across Canada.

Ready to Learn More?

Contact us today to learn more about Hy-Lok’s high-performance tube fittings!