Whether you’re installing a home plumbing system, industrial pipeline, or HVAC setup, choosing the right pipe fitting method is critical. The way you connect pipes impacts durability, safety, maintenance costs, and even energy efficiency. In this guide, we’ll break down the three most common pipe fitting methods—welding, threaded connections, and flanged connections—so you can pick the best one for your needs. Plus, we’ll share why Eagle’s premium fittings are trusted by professionals worldwide.
1. Welding: The Gold Standard for Strength & Sealing
Welding is the go-to method when you need a permanent, leak-proof connection. It works by melting the ends of two pipes (or a pipe and a fitting) and fusing them into one solid piece as they cool.
When to Use Welding
- High-pressure systems: Oil and gas pipelines, chemical plants, or steam lines (think: 1000+ PSI).
- Extreme temperatures: Power plants or industrial furnaces where pipes face heat up to 1000°F.
- Critical infrastructure: Water mains or underground pipelines where leaks could cause major damage.
Why Welding Stands Out
- Unmatched strength: Welded joints are as strong as the pipe itself, with no weak points.
- Zero leaks: A properly done weld creates a seamless seal—no gaskets or threads to fail.
- Material versatility: Works on steel, stainless steel, copper, and even plastic (with specialized tools).
Types of Welding for Pipes (And When to Use Them)
- TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas): Precision welding for thin pipes (like copper in HVAC). Produces clean, smooth joints—great for visible areas.
- MIG (Metal Inert Gas): Faster and better for thick steel pipes (e.g., industrial tanks).
- Stick Welding: Portable and works outdoors, but leaves a rougher finish—ideal for remote projects.
Downsides to Consider
- Skill required: Bad welding leads to cracks or leaks. Always hire certified welders (Eagle offers training resources for pros).
- Costly tools: You’ll need a welding machine, gas tanks, and safety gear—pricy for small DIY jobs.
- Permanent: Once welded, pipes can’t be easily taken apart for repairs.
2. Threaded Connections: Simple, Reusable, and Budget-Friendly
Threaded fittings use male and female threads (like a screw and nut) to connect pipes. They’re the most common choice for low-pressure, easy-maintenance setups.
When to Use Threaded Connections
- Home plumbing: Sinks, showers, or under-sink pipes (water pressure < 150 PSI).
- DIY projects: Easy to install with basic tools (wrench + Teflon tape).
- Temporary setups: Portable sinks, outdoor sprinklers, or seasonal equipment.
Why Threaded Connections Shine
- Quick installation: No welding—just screw them together.
- Reusable: Unscrew for repairs, upgrades, or moving pipes.
- Affordable: Threaded fittings (and tools) cost less than welding gear or flanges.
Common Issues to Watch For
- Leaks: Threads can loosen over time. Always use Teflon tape or pipe dope for a tight seal.
- Corrosion: Moisture or chemicals can rust threads—Eagle’s galvanized or stainless steel threaded fittings resist corrosion.
- Pressure limits: Not ideal for high-pressure systems (over 300 PSI) where threads might strip.
3. Flanged Connections: Easy Maintenance for Big Systems
Flanged fittings use two metal discs (flanges) bolted together, with a gasket in between to seal the joint. They’re perfect for large, complex systems that need regular access.
When to Use Flanged Connections
- Industrial plants: Water treatment facilities, refineries, or HVAC systems with large pipes (6”+ diameter).
- Frequent maintenance: Pumps, valves, or filters that need routine checks.
- Big pipes: Flanges handle large diameters better than welding or threading.
Why Flanged Connections Work
- Easy access: Unbolt the flanges to inspect, clean, or replace parts—no cutting pipes.
- Strong seals: Gaskets (rubber, metal, or composite) prevent leaks even under moderate pressure (up to 600 PSI).
- Versatile: Works with any pipe material (steel, PVC, cast iron) and size.
Drawbacks to Consider
- Space hog: Flanges and bolts take up room—avoid in tight spaces (e.g., under a kitchen sink).
- Higher cost: Flanges, gaskets, and bolts add up—especially for large systems.
- Complex setup: Requires precise alignment and torqueing bolts evenly (Eagle’s pre-matched flange kits simplify this).
How to Choose: Welding vs Threaded vs Flanged
| Your Needs | Best Method | Example Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| High pressure/temp, no leaks | Welding | Oil pipelines, steam boilers |
| Easy DIY, low pressure | Threaded Connections | Home plumbing, outdoor sprinklers |
| Frequent maintenance, big pipes | Flanged Connections | Water treatment plants, industrial HVAC |
Why Eagle Fittings Lead the Pack
At Eagle, we engineer fittings for real-world challenges. Here’s why pros choose us:
- Welding Supplies: High-quality TIG/MIG rods and protective gear, tested for strength.
- Threaded Fittings: Corrosion-resistant stainless steel and galvanized options, with pre-applied thread sealant.
- Flange Kits: Pre-matched flanges, gaskets, and bolts—no guesswork.
- Expert Support: Free guides, training videos, and 24/7 tech help for installers.
Common Questions About Pipe Fittings
Q: Can I mix fitting methods in one system?
A: Yes! For example, use welding for high-pressure sections and threaded connections for easy-to-reach maintenance points.
Q: How do I fix a leaky threaded joint?
A: Tighten the connection with a wrench, then add more Teflon tape. If it still leaks, replace the fitting (Eagle’s corrosion-resistant options last longer).
Q: Are plastic pipes compatible with these methods?
A: Welding works with plastic (using heat fusion), threaded connections need plastic-specific fittings, and flanges can use PVC or composite materials.
Final Take: Pick the Right Fit for Your Project
Welding, threaded, and flanged connections each have their strengths. Welding is for strength, threaded for simplicity, and flanged for maintenance. With Eagle’s premium fittings and expert support, you’ll get a system that’s safe, efficient, and built to last.