Pipe Threads
Pipe Threads
Pipe Threads
Identifying Threads
Pipe Threads
Pipe threads are either tapered or straight (parallel). The two styles may or may not be compatible. Refer to thread information
chart on page 706.
Tapered threads
Tapered threads are the most common type of thread available. As the name implies, they
have a slight taper. When mated together and tightened, the threads compress and may form a
seal. Usually a thread sealant is required. The mating threads both hold the fitting in place and
seal the connection. The most widely used pipe threads in North America are NPT (National
Pipe Taper). Some confusion may result from the use of NPT, FPT, and MPT in describing
threads. Both FPT and MPT are NPT threads, with FPT meaning female threads (internal) and
MPT meaning male threads (external).
tapered threads
NPTF (Dryseal) threads are modified NPT threads, which are less likely to leak without a
sealant. For a leak-free seal, we recommend using a sealant compound or PTFE tape. You
can use NPTF threads with NPT threads, but you'll lose some of the leak-free characteristics.
Straight threads
Straight (parallel) threads are used for mechanical joining. They serve one purpose - to
hold a fitting in place. As a result, an O-ring (elastomer), hard metal seal or a soft seat seal is
required. Straight pipe threads include NPSM (National Pipe Straight Mechanical), and NPSH
(National Pipe Straight Hose) Sizing and pitches may differ from the NPT threads
Less common straight threads are GHT (Garden Hose) and NST (fire hose coupling).
straight threads
BSPT/BSPP threads
BSPT threads have a slight taper similar to NPT. BSPP threads are straight (parallel) threads
and have the same thread angle, shape and threads per inch (pitch) as BSPT threads. BSPT
and BSPP threads should not be substituted for NPT threads.
NPT and BSPT/BSPP threads have different angles, shape, and (in most cases) threads
per inch (pitch). The thread angle is 60 for NPT threads; 55 for BSPT/BSPP threads. NPT
threads are flattened at the peaks and valleys, while BSPT/BSPP threads are rounded.
DPL413
Nominal
Pipe Size
NPT
BSPT / BSPP
1/16"
1/8"
1/4"
3/8"
1/2"
3/4"
1"
1-1/4"
1-1/2"
2"
2-1/2"
3"
3-1/2"
4"
5"
6"
8"
27
27
18
18
14
14
11
11
11
11
8
8
8
8
8
8
8
--28
19
19
14
14
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
11
877.963.4966 dixonvalve.com
NPT threads
705
Technical Information
Identifying Threads
It is important to identify the threads required before ordering couplings.
Identifying threads can sometimes be the most difficult and frustrating part of coupling selection. However, without the right
combination of threads, you may not provide a functional or safe connection.
The diameters, threads per inch (TPI) and thread pitch, etc. are necessary to completely identify a thread. Ring, plug and GO/
NOGO gauges are required to accurately gauge or identify threads. In the field, in the absence of these gauges, thread leaf
gauges can be used to identify the Threads Per Inch (TPI) and the thread pitch. On threads you have determined to be straight
threads, a caliper can be used to measure the Outside Diameter of the male (ODM) or the Inside Diameter of the female (IDF). A
caliper can also be used to take measurements of tapered thread diameters. However, these are more difficult to define because
of the taper. Fortunately, there are few tapered threads to deal with and these can usually be identified from the nominal ODM
and the TPI.
However, identifying the thread may not fully identify what is needed in a mating fitting. The application is the primary limiting
factor on the thread type used. Dixon offers products with a wide variety of threads used with hose, pipe and hydraulics.
When attempting to choose a fitting, it is always advisable to first identify the thread to which it must connect. This may entail
checking with a fitting or equipment manufacturer.
The fire hose thread specifications for some local municipal fire equipment and hydrants may vary according to local
specifications. These can generally be most easily identified by contacting the local fire department responsible for the hydrant.
The most common thread used on fire equipment is National Standard Thread (NST), also known as National Hose thread (NH).
Straight Thread
706
Tapered Thread
877.963.4966 dixonvalve.com
DPL413