What Is A Flare Nut?

Flare Nuts, also known as flare fittings or compression fittings, are a type of mechanical connection used in plumbing, heating, and gas systems to join pipes or tubing. These nuts are commonly used with soft tubing made of materials like copper, aluminum, or brass. The term "flare" refers to the method of sealing the connection.

Here's how a flare nut connection works:

Flaring the Tube: To create a flare connection, the end of the tubing is flared outward using a special tool. This creates a 45-degree angle at the end of the tube.

Inserting the Flared Tube: The flared end of the tube is inserted into a fitting or a valve. This fitting usually has a conical-shaped depression where the flared end of the tube sits.

Tightening the Flare Nut: The flare nut is then threaded onto the fitting, compressing the flared end of the tube against the conical seat inside the fitting. This compression creates a tight, leak-proof seal.

Flare Nuts are particularly useful in situations where a strong, reliable connection is needed, such as in high-pressure systems or in places where the connection might need to be disassembled and reassembled multiple times. They are commonly used in applications like gas lines, refrigeration systems, and hydraulic systems.

When working with Flare Nuts, it's crucial to ensure that the flare is properly formed, and the flare nut is tightened securely to prevent leaks. Over-tightening can damage the flare and cause leaks, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's specifications for proper torque values.

Always follow safety guidelines and local plumbing codes when working with flare nuts or any other plumbing connections to ensure the integrity and safety of the system.