Hydraulic Fitting Identification and Connection Types

30 Jun.,2025

 

Hydraulic Fitting Identification and Connection Types

NPT (National Pipe Tapered) style pipe threads have been widely used for over 100 years. NPT is a U.S. standard for tapered threads used on pipes and fittings. They are used to effectively seal pipes for fluid and gas transfer. The nominal pipe size can be identified by physically measuring the thread diameter, then subtracting 1/4″.

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They are available in iron or brass for low-pressure applications and carbon steel and stainless steel for high-pressure.

NPTF (National Pipe Tapered Fuel) style connections are widely used in fluid power systems. They have a tapered thread by which a seal is made by deformation of the threads. NPTF Threads are measured at the thread diameter and subtracting 1/4-inch to establish the nominal pipe size.

NPSM (National Pipe Straight Mechanical) connections are also often found in fluid power systems. The female component incorporates a straight thread with an inverted 30° seat. The male component has a straight thread and a 30° internal chamfer. A seal is made by compression of the 30° seat on the chamfer. This is considered a mechanical connection. If an NPTF male is properly chamfered it will also seal with an NPSM female connection.

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Society of Automotive Engineers Thread (SAE)

SAE J Straight Thread O-Ring Boss (ORB) is recommended by the National Fire Protection Association (N.F.P.A.) for leak prevention in medium and high pressure hydraulic systems. The male connection is a straight thread with an O-ring. The female port has a straight thread and a machined surface to provide a smooth, flat surface (minimum spotface), along with a chamfer where the O-ring seats. It seals when the O-ring is compressed into the chamfer when mating the male connection. This is also considered a mechanical connection. 

SAE J514 JIC/37° Hydraulic connections are common in most fluid power systems. Both male and female components have 37° seats. The seal is made by establishing contact between the male flared and female coned seat. This is also considered a mechanical connection.

SAE J512 45° connections are used in automotive, refrigeration and truck pipe systems. These connectors are typically brass material. The male and female connections have 45° seats, where the seal is make where the male flare and the female cone meet. This is a mechanical connection also. 

NOTE dash sizes: -02, -03, -04, -05, -08, and -10 of SAE 37° and SAE 45° have the same threads, but NOT the same seat angles. Intermixing the two different types of fittings will result in leakage, so use care in measuring seat angles. 

SAE J (ORFS) O-ring Face Seal connections are considered the best for leak control. The male connector has a straight thread and an O-ring in the face. The female has a straight thread and a machined flat face. The seal takes place by compressing the O-ring onto the flat face of the female, similar to the split flange type fitting. The threads maintain the connection mechanically. 

SAE J512 Inverted connections are typically used in automotive systems. The male connector is either a 45° flare within the tube fitting or a 42° seat in the machined adapter. The female incorporates a straight thread with a 42° inverted flare. The fittings are sealed at the flared surfaces. These threads also maintain a mechanical connection. 

SAE J518 4-Bolt Flange* There are two pressure ratings for these connections: Code 61 which is considered the standard series and Code 62 which is the PSI series. The design is the same for each series, yet the flange head diameters and bolt hole spacing are larger for the PSI high pressure Code 62 connection. The female port of the fitting is a smooth, un-threaded port with four bolt holes set in a rectangular pattern around the port. The male is a flanged head with a groove for an O-ring and either split or captive flange halves and bolt holes which match the port. The seal is made where the O-ring is compressed between the flanged head and the flat surface of the port. The connection is held by threaded bolts.
*Excluding bolt sizes, SAE J518, JIS B , ISO/DIS and DIN are interchangeable.

British Standard Pipe (BSP) and BSPT (tapered) connections are comparable to NPT, except most sizes have a different thread pitch, plus the OD’s and thread form are close, but not the same. Sealing takes place by distortion of the threads. Because of this, thread sealants are recommended when securing these connections. 

BSPP (parallel) male connection is comparable to NPSM male except most sizes have a different thread pitch. A captive seal is made using metal to metal angled surfaces or a combination of metal to metal and an O-ring. This type of connection is very similar (but not interchangeable) with the American NPSM male. The female swivel BSPP has a tapered nose flareless swivel where the seal occurs on the cone seat of the male connector. 

Note: the thread sizes are often expressed as fractional dimensions preceeded by the letters “G” or “R”, where “G” represents a parallel thread and “R” represents a tapered thread. Example: BSPT 5/8-14 can be designated by R 5/8 and BSP 1/16-28 can be designated by G 1/16. 

JIS Tapered Pipe (PT) has metric threads per JIS B . These are JIS tapered threads and are comparable to the design of BSPT connections in their dimensions and appearance. JIS tapered thread connections are interchangeable with BSPT connections. 

JIS 30° Male Inverted Seat connections are parallel pipe threads per JIS B . JIS parallel connections are comparable to BSPP connections. JIS parallel thread connections are interchangeable with BSPP connections. 

JIS 30° Female (Cone) Seat are parallel pipe threads per JIS B . Japanese JIS 30° flare connections are comparable to American SAE 37° flare connections in application and sealing principals. Yet, JIS 30° flare angle and dimensions are different with threads that are similar to BSPP.

JIS B 4-Bolt Flange connections are frequently used in fluid power systems. There are two pressure ratings for JIS B 4-Bolt Flange fittings:
1) Type I Code 61 is the standard series 4-Bolt Flange
2) Type II Code 62 is the PSI series

Each design concept is the same, yet the flanged head diameters and bolt hole spacing are larger for the Type II PSI connection. Metric and inch bolts are each used with these connectors. The male connector has a flanged head with a groove for seating an O-ring and either a captive flange or split flange with bolt holes to correspond to the port. The female port of the fitting is a smooth, un-threaded port with four bolt holes set in a rectangular pattern in around the port. The seal is made where the O-ring is compressed between the flanged head and the flat surface of the port. The connection is held by threaded bolts. 

JIS 210 Kgf/cm2 4-Bolt Square Flange  incorporates a JIS 4-bolt square flange connection which is comparable to SAE 4-bolt flange connections with one difference – the flange itself is different and the JIS bolt pattern is square.

ISO/DIS 4-Bolt Flange is another common connection found in fluid power systems. There are two pressure ratings for this connection- Code 61: PN 35/350 bar which is considered the standard series and Code 62: PN 415 bar which is the high pressure series. They maintain the same design, yet with the bold hole spacings and flanged head diameters being larger on the PN 415 bar high pressure connection. Inch or metric bolts are found in these connections, however there is an “M” stamped on the port if metric bolts are to be used. The female port of the fitting is a smooth, un-threaded port with four bolt holes set in a rectangular pattern in around the port. The male is a flanged head with a groove for an O-ring to seat and either split or captive flange halves and bolt holes which match the port. The seal is made where the O-ring is compressed between the flanged head and the flat surface of the port. The connection is held by threaded bolts.

ISO Port and Stud Ends with ISO 261 Threads and O-ring Seal though it is similar to the SAE J514 Straight Thread O-ring Boss (ORB), this type of connection incorporates metric threads. The male connector has straight threads with an O-ring. The female port is also straight threads machined surface to provide a smooth, flat, accurately located surface (minimum spotface), along with a chamfer where the O-ring seats. It seals when the O-ring is compressed into the chamfer when mating the male connection. This is also considered a mechanical connection. 

Top 10 Hydraulic Adapters Manufacturer in World

Choosing a reliable hydraulic adapters manufacturer is crucial in the design and assembly of hydraulic systems. As a key component for connecting and converting different hydraulic components, hydraulic adapters play a vital role in the performance and safety of the system. Here you will find the top 10 hydraulic adapters manufacturers in the world.

1. AIR-WAY

Established:

Country : China

Main products :

  • Hydraulic Hoses and JIC Fittings
  • Hydraulic O-ring Seals

Company profile :

Air-Way is an ISO : (with design) certified hydraulic adapters manufacturer , ISO :, and is an approved supplier to several of the largest and best known OEMs in the world.

By partnering, you benefit from the technical expertise of a manufacturer who owns and controls the manufacturing process, as well as world-class delivery performance. They offer same-day shipping on items in stock.

Special packaging, shipping and service programs designed around customer requirements have helped them build their reputation as the most versatile and customer-friendly hydraulic adapter manufacturer in the hydraulic fittings industry.

2. LAIKE

Established :

Country : China

Number of employees: 100+

Main products :

  • Hydraulic Hose Fittings
  • Hydraulic adapter
  • Hydraulic hose
  • Quick Couplings
  • Crimping machine
  • Hydraulic steel pipe

Company profile :

Founded in , Lake Hydraulics is a hydraulic adapter manufacturer dedicated to developing and manufacturing hose couplings, hydraulic fittings, hose assemblies and other related products widely used in mining, machinery, transportation, ships and oil fields . After more than 20 years of study, growth and development, it now has a factory building of 18,000 square meters, 200 machines, 100 employees, and more than 40,000 kinds of common supplies.

It is the long-term commitment to "first-class design, first-class products, and first-class service" that makes Lake Hydraulics a synonym for hydraulic joints and adapters. Sincerely welcome everyone from all over the world to visit.

3. Topa

Established :

Country : China

Main products :

  • Hydraulic hose
  • Hydraulic Hose Fittings
  • Hydraulic adapter

Company profile :

Topa is a competent hydraulic adapters manufacturer . They specialize in hydraulic fittings and hydraulic hoses, including more than types and sizes. They have 30 automatic assembly lathes, 50 skilled technicians, dozens of salesmen, and a complete service process.

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As a professional hydraulic adapter manufacturer, Topa factory covers an area of square meters, with more than 30 automatic processing machines, 50 professional pipe fitting workers, and several sales staff.

4. UNISOURCE

Country : United States

Main products :

  • Industrial hose
  • Hydraulic hose
  • Metal Hose

Company profile :

Unisource Manufacturing Inc. is a hydraulic adapters manufacturer covering virtually every application and industry . Their products broadly support general industrial distributors and manufacturers. Our deep support professional housing. If not in stock we can manufacture, including complete custom hose assemblies for OEM. They pride themselves on making unusual products.

5. BRENNAN

Established:

Country : United States

Main products :

  • Fittings and Adapters
  • Flange joint
  • DIN accessories

Company profile :

First and foremost, quality is what sets Brennan apart from other sources of hydraulic and pneumatic accessories. Since , Brennan Industries has supplied companies around the world with the highest quality critical fluid components. What has changed over the years is the number of products we offer and the way we get those products into the hands of our customers.

The design and durability of each fitting ensures long-lasting service, even in corrosive and harsh environments. As a testament to their exceptional quality, they back each accessory with product traceability.

6. Parker

Established:

Country : United States

Main products :

  • Accessories and Quick Connectors
  • Hoses, pipes
  • Seals and O-rings

Company profile :

Parker Hannifin is a Fortune 250 global leader in motion and control technologies. For more than a century, the company has been helping customers succeed in a broad range of diverse industrial and aerospace markets. The engineering in Parker products may not be visible, but it can be found on and around virtually everything that moves.

Parker team members uncover a wealth of unsolved engineering challenges that can have a significant impact on people's lives. These challenges drive us forward, seeking new ways to innovate and collaborate, developing systems with technology, and partnering with our customers to address tomorrow's challenges and opportunities.

7. QMM

Country : United States

Main products :

  • Pipe adapter
  • 37 degree accessories
  • NPSM adapter

Company profile :

QMM is one of the few hydraulic adapters manufacturers in the United States that manufactures and imports hydraulic fittings and adapters . Give your supply chain peace of mind . Since we manufacture parts in our own factory, they can ensure your production line continues to run and your supply is not interrupted. By ordering hydraulic fittings and screw machine products from domestic suppliers, you can rest assured that your supply chain will not be affected by world events.

8. QC Hydraulics

Country : United States

Main products :

  • SS Pre-Crimp Hose Fittings
  • SS hydraulic adapter
  • SS DIN Metric Tube Fittings

Company profile :

Focus on stainless steel hydraulic pipe fittings for more than 20 years. Manufactures hydraulic fittings for wholesalers/distributors, hose suppliers and original equipment manufacturers worldwide. Their goal is to solve customers' problems and increase their market share. Let QC Hydraulics help you achieve business success.

QC Hydraulics is a leading hydraulic adapters manufacturer of stainless steel tube and hose fittings for over 20 years. Our excellent team, advanced technology, strict quality control, strong production capacity, and professional service make us enjoy a high reputation at home and abroad.

9. Jiayuan Hydraulics

Established:

Country : China

Main products :

  • Hydraulic fittings
  • Hydraulic adapter
  • Hose connector

Company profile :

Founded in , Jiayuan Hydraulics is a hydraulic adapters manufacturer specializing in the production of engineering machinery accessories and hydraulic pipe joints. It can produce hydraulic pipe joints of international standards such as DIN, ISO, and SAE. They try their best to create value for customers, making them the best choice for customers.

As a trusted hydraulic fittings supplier, Jiayuan Hydraulics exports globally to markets in Japan, Germany, the U.S., South Korea, and Europe, while also supplying domestic excavator manufacturers. Its commitment to competitive pricing, timely delivery, and client-centric innovation has solidified its reputation as a reliable hydraulic hose fitting manufacturer in the global hydraulic systems sector.

10. World Wide Fittings

Established:

Country : United States

Main products :

  • Steel pipe fittings
  • International Conversion Adapter
  • Stainless Steel Fittings

Company profile :

From its beginnings as World Wide Supply in , World Wide Fittings has grown into a global hydraulic adapters manufacturer of steel and stainless steel hydraulic pipe and fittings. World Wide initially built its reputation as a supplier of cold formed hydraulic pipe nuts and sleeves as well as SAE O-ring bosses produced on conventional screw machines. After these products captured most of the market in the US, World Wide began expanding overseas in , they opened a European stocking facility and technical center in Birmingham, UK, followed by two manufacturing plants in China in -. Actual ownership of our manufacturing facilities in China is an important differentiator between us and many of our competitors.

Conclusion:

Overall, hydraulic adapters manufacturers play a key role in the design and assembly of hydraulic systems. In the construction of a hydraulic system, the selection of a reliable hydraulic adapters manufacturer is a key factor in ensuring smooth operation and maximizing the performance of the system.

One of the highly recognized manufacturers is LAIKE. they specialize in providing high quality, reliable and accurate hydraulic adapters products to meet the needs of various hydraulic applications, contact us for your needs!

For more information, please visit 45°Metric Female One Piece Hose Fittings.