A compression fitting is a pipe joint in which a brass nut is tightened over an olive that compresses around the pipe to form a watertight seal. UK compression fittings are manufactured to BS EN 1254 and are commonly used to join copper pipes in domestic plumbing systems. The joint can be disassembled and reused with a new olive, making it useful in concealed locations where future maintenance is anticipated. Installation requires the pipe to be cut squarely, deburred and inserted fully into the fitting before tightening to the correct torque. Over-tightening can deform the olive and cause leaks, while under-tightening leaves the joint loose. Compression fittings are particularly popular in London plumbing refurbishments where it is impractical to use heat-based jointing methods.
Compression fitting
Pipe joint using a brass nut and olive to compress around the pipe for a watertight seal.
