While size is an important factor when choosing flanges, elbows, and other components of your piping process, pipe ends are a critical consideration to ensure a proper fit, a tight seal, and optimal performance.
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In this guide, we will look at the various pipe end configurations available, the scenarios they’re most often used in, and factors you should consider when choosing a specific pipe end.
The type of pipe end chosen will determine how it connects to other components and which applications and components the pipe is best suited for.
Pipe ends typically fall into one of four categories:
A single pipe can also have multiple end types. This is often designated in the pipe description or label.
For example, a 3/4-inch SMLS Schedule 80s A/SA312-TP316L TOE pipe has threads on one end (TOE) and is plain on the other.
In contrast, a 3/4-inch SMLS Schedule 80s A/SA312-TP316L TBE pipe has threads on both ends (TBE).
PE pipes feature ends typically cut at a 90-degree angle to the pipe run for a flat, even termination.
In most cases, plain end pipes are used in combination with slip-on flanges and socket weld fittings and flanges.
Both styles require fillet welding on either one or both sides of the fitting or flange and at the base of the fitting or flange.
Where applicable, the plain end will be placed typically ⅛” from where the pipe rests to allow for thermal expansion during welding.
This makes them ideal for small diameter piping systems.
Typically used for pipes with a nominal size of three-inch or smaller, TE pipes allow for an excellent seal.
Most pipes use the National Pipe Thread (NPT) standard which describes the tapered threads used on the pipe with the most common taper measuring 3/4-inch per foot.
This taper allows the threads to pull tight and create a more effective seal.
However, connecting the threads on a TE pipe properly is essential to avoid damaging pipes, fittings, or flanges.
Improper assembly or disassembly may lead to galling or seizing.
Once unseized, damage to the threads or pipe could further reduce corrosion resistance and hygienic properties -- two popular reasons for choosing stainless steel pipe.
Fortunately, avoiding these concerns is often as simple as preparing the threads before assembly.
We recommend and sell Unasco stainless steel thread sealing tape.
Impregnated with nickel powder, the tape keeps the surface of male and female thread ends separately while also lubricating the connection for easier assembly and disassembly.
Used with buttwelding, BW pipe fittings commonly feature a 37.5-degree bevel.
These bevels are often applied by fabricators by hand or through automated processes to ensure consistency.
This allows for a perfect match with BW pipe fittings and flanges and easier welding.
Grooved mechanical joints or grooved end pipes use a formed or machined groove at the end of the pipe to seat a gasket.
A housing around the gasket is then tightened to secure the connection and ensure optimal seal and performance.
The design allows for easier disassembly with a reduced risk of damaging piping components.
Pipe end connections typically used for pipe nipples -- are often denoted using abbreviations.
In most cases, the first letter denotes the type of end used while the following letters let you know which ends are finished.
Common abbreviations include:
If you’d like to know more about common pipe end standards, you can find information from ASME below:
This guide covers the essentials to matching pipe ends and connections to suit your intended function or piping system.
However, you must also ensure proper pipe sizing and pipe materials.
Combine this with the sheer number of different parts and configurations available and finding the perfect option might seem intimidating.
Aluminum bent tubes (bents), including standard elbows and complex curved tubes, are key components in piping systems. Widely used in construction, chemical, automotive, and HVAC industries, they feature lightweight, high strength, and excellent corrosion resistance. As a professional manufacturer, we provide high-quality aluminum bent solutions to meet diverse fluid transport and structural needs, ensuring efficient and reliable applications.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Alloy Elbow. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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Aluminum elbows are standardized fittings used to redirect flow in piping systems, widely applied in petrochemical, power, HVAC, and nuclear industries. Chalco offers elbows in common angles such as 45°, 90°, and 180°, with custom angles and end types available upon request.
With a mature production system covering forging, welding, machining, and surface treatment, Chalco ensures excellent dimensional accuracy, pressure resistance, and corrosion protection. Our elbows are ideal for high-demand systems and support stable, large-scale supply.
Explore Chalco's Aluminum Elbow Manufacturing Capabilities
To meet different pressure, corrosion, and forming requirements, Chalco offers aluminum elbows in a range of commonly used alloys, including aluminum elbow, aluminum elbow, aluminum elbow, and aluminum elbow. These alloy elbows are widely applied in industries such as oil & gas, marine, construction, and water systems, offering a reliable combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and weldability.
Instant QuoteAluminum bent tubes are used in automotive exhaust systems, machinery frames, sports equipment, and structural supports—especially where space is limited or routing is complex. Chalco provides precision-formed bent tubes tailored to diverse design requirements and structural layouts.
With advanced CNC mandrel bending equipment, Chalco ensures smooth, accurate bends with consistent wall thickness and minimal deformation. We support customized diameters, wall thicknesses, and profiles, and offer fast turnaround from design to volume production.
Chalco provides mandrel bent aluminum tubes in high-performance alloys such as mandrel bent tube, aluminum bend, aluminum bend, and aluminum bend. These materials ensure excellent formability, surface quality, and durability, making them ideal for precision applications in automotive exhaust systems, aerospace structures, racing components, and fluid transport assemblies.
Instant QuoteSpecify the required bend angle (45°, 90°, 180°, or custom), outer/inner diameter, wall thickness, centerline radius (CLR), and total length. Also define end types—flange, threaded, expanded, reducer, or quick-connect. Consider the operating environment: pressure, temperature, vibration, and corrosive conditions.
What is Centerline Radius (CLR) and why does it matter? See FAQ
Choose the most suitable aluminum alloy (e.g., -T6 for strength and weldability, for marine corrosion resistance, for aerospace-grade toughness). Ensure compatibility with media (e.g., fluid, gas, chemicals), and match wall thickness to pressure rating (e.g., SCH40 or SCH80).
Our engineers use 3D CAD to build precise models, ensuring all angles, paths, interfaces, and tolerances are met. Design optimization focuses on smooth flow paths, reliable sealing, minimal turbulence, and structural stress balance—especially for multi-bend or compact systems.
We evaluate the design for feasibility and process compatibility. For elbows, hot or cold forging with precise trimming ensures strength and shape retention. For bent tubes, we offer CNC mandrel bending, hot/cold roll forming, and segment welding—selected based on bend complexity, wall thickness, and radius.
Chalco offers rapid prototyping for validation before full-scale production. Each sample undergoes checks on bend radius, wall thinning, surface integrity, and interface accuracy. This step is essential for confirming custom specs and eliminating risk in final delivery.
All elbows and bent tubes can be tested per customer specs. Options include pressure testing, air-tightness checks, CRL and ovality measurement (±0.1mm), and full non-destructive testing (NDT) like ultrasonic or X-ray inspection. We also provide Material Test Reports (MTRs), heat treatment records, and certification to ASTM, ASME, or DNV standards.
What is Centerline Radius (CLR) and why is it important?
Centerline Radius (CLR) refers to the distance from the centerline of the bend to the centerline of the tube. It is a critical parameter that affects flow efficiency, structural integrity, and fit-up in piping systems. Choosing the right CRL ensures proper routing, minimizes pressure loss, and avoids space interference—especially in compact or multi-bend layouts.
Can you support complex bending and multi-radius tube systems?
Yes. For bent tube applications, Chalco offers CNC mandrel bending, hot and cold forming, and multi-radius segment fabrication. These methods support precise control over CRL, wall thinning, and deformation, making them ideal for automotive exhausts, structural frames, and tight-space installations.
To help customers make the right selection and understand Chalco's capabilities, we address the most frequently asked technical concerns:
Is the elbow seamless or welded?
Seamless elbows are preferred for high-pressure, high-temperature, and cyclic load environments such as aerospace, chemical, and energy systems. Chalco offers seamless forged elbows and seamless mandrel-bent tubes for critical applications that demand superior pressure resistance and fatigue performance.
What is the accuracy of the inner wall and roundness?
The smoothness and roundness of the internal flow path directly affect fluid dynamics and long-term reliability. Chalco performs CNC finishing and internal polishing, achieving tolerance levels up to ±0.1 mm, ensuring optimal flow and surface quality.
Can I customize angle, wall thickness, or end connections?
While 45°, 90°, and 180° are standard, Chalco supports custom angles such as 30°, 60°, or 120°, as well as tailored wall thicknesses to match SCH40, SCH80 pipe systems. We also support flared ends, threaded ends, flanges, reducers, and quick connectors to meet diverse installation needs.
What about heat treatment and mechanical properties?
We provide elbows in T6, T651, O and other heat-treated tempers with matching yield and tensile strength across the pipeline system. Mechanical test reports (MTRs) and heat treatment certificates are available upon request.
How is corrosion resistance and surface finish ensured?
Our products are suitable for marine, acidic, and coolant environments. We offer anodizing, polishing, and clean surface treatments to meet the hygiene standards of pharmaceutical and food industries.
Are testing and certifications provided?
Chalco supports non-destructive testing (X-ray, ultrasonic), pressure testing, dimensional checks, and visual inspection reports. Our products comply with ASTM B361, ASME B16.9, GB/T , and international certifications such as RoHS, REACH, and DNV where required.
At Chalco, we don't just manufacture elbows and bent tubes—we help you build the entire piping system. From material selection and engineering support to a full range of aluminum fittings, we provide one-stop solutions for demanding projects in construction, energy, chemical, and automotive industries. Whether you need standard parts or custom-designed components, Chalco ensures every piece works together for optimal performance and reliability.
Explore our full range of Aluminum tees, reducers, flange, threaded fittings, and other aluminum pipe fittings—all available in various alloys and dimensions to build your ideal solution.
Get in touch now for a tailored aluminum piping solution built for performance, precision, and speed.
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