1/4 inch x Close Stainless Steel Nipple

1/4" x Close 304 Stainless Steel Nipple – Threaded Pipe Fitting for Corrosion-Resistant Applications

The 1/4 inch x Close 304 Stainless Steel Nipple is a precision-machined fitting designed for joining two female-threaded components in high-pressure or corrosive environments. Fabricated from ASTM A312 compliant 304 stainless steel, this close nipple offers durability, dimensional consistency, and chemical resistance in demanding mechanical and plumbing applications.

Commonly specified for systems requiring minimal spacing between connections, the close nipple features fully threaded ends with no visible unthreaded center section, allowing tight coupling in space-constrained assemblies. Its corrosion resistance makes it suitable for potable water, industrial fluids, air, and low-pressure steam systems where long-term integrity is critical.

Product Attributes

• ✅ Material: 304 stainless steel per ASTM A312, suitable for water, air, and non-aggressive chemical environments.
• ✅ Connection Type: NPT Male x Male (Nominal Pipe Thread per ANSI B1.20.1)
• ✅ Nominal Size: 1/4 inch
• ✅ Configuration: Close nipple – full thread coverage end to end for minimal axial length installations.
• ✅ Temperature Range: Up to 1500°F depending on pressure and service media; always confirm with applicable pressure-temperature ratings.

Performance and Compliance

• ✅ Corrosion Resistance: 304 stainless steel offers strong resistance to oxidation, water exposure, and a range of mildly corrosive fluids.
• ✅ Pressure Rating: Compatible with Schedule 40 and Schedule 80 threaded pipe systems; actual pressure rating depends on connected system and installation method.
• ✅ Manufacturing Tolerances: Threads machined to ANSI B1.20.1 with controlled pitch and concentricity for reliable sealing with thread sealant or PTFE tape.
• ✅ Use Cases: Common in plumbing, compressed air, instrumentation, pump manifolds, and heat exchanger connections where compact design is required.

Installation Guidance

Install with pipe sealant or PTFE thread tape to achieve leak-free joints. Over-tightening should be avoided to prevent thread deformation. Close nipples must be aligned with care as rotation is limited once installed; turning with wrenches on adjacent components is typical during assembly. Not suitable for systems requiring rotational adjustment after threading.

Typical Applications

Used in commercial and industrial piping assemblies including water distribution, HVAC manifolds, process piping, and retrofit projects requiring compact threaded joins. Ideal where space is limited or where precise alignment between two components is necessary.

Environmental and Material Compliance

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable, making it a material of choice for sustainable infrastructure. This fitting is compliant with lead-free requirements under NSF/ANSI 372 for potable water use, depending on manufacturing specification and certifying body.