SSP Blog

Every connection is a potential leak point in a fluid system, this is why it is essential to pay special attention when using items like tube fittings to make them. Improper selection and installation of tube fittings can cause environmental releases, safety problems, and increased costs. 

At SSP when we say “Made in America”, we mean it. We mean it 100% of the time, every time we say it.

JIC fittings (also known as SAE 37° tube fittings, flared fittings, or SAE J514 fittings) are one of the most popular configurations of hydraulic fluid connectors in North America, thanks to their exceptional seal and versatility.

Delays, inconsistent product performance, and the inability to meet production specifications can be more than enough to make one seek out a new tube fitting supplier. However, evaluating other suppliers on the market and making a seamless transition can be tricky. In this quick guide, we’ll provide recommendations as to how to assess tube fitting suppliers based on their safety assurance, resource availability, product performance, and overall reliability. Selecting a supplier that you trust is essential to keeping your instrumentation system running smoothly.

Instrumentation tube fittings encompass not only standard items such as adapters and connectors, but also non-standard types like fittings for calibration and special orifices. It is critical to the correct and long-term functionality of the instrumentation system that tubes and tube fittings are installed properly. Though the components and their assembly may look simple, errors during storage, fabrication, and installation are all too common. These errors result in sub-optimal performance and reduced lifespan of tubing systems.

In Part 1 of our instrumentation tube fittings series, we outlined the differences between our Unilok, Duolok, and Griplok fittings. Each of these fittings were developed with clear, specific goals in mind: to provide safe and reliable connections and to intermix and interchange with other tube fittings from approved manufacturers.

SSP is a premier manufacturer of high-quality instrumentation fittings suitable for use in a wide range of applications. The lines we supply are Unilok, Duolok, and Griplok, each of which features distinct design and operational characteristics.

SS-600-1-4, 6-4 FBZ-SS, 6MSC4N-316, DCT-6-4-SS.  I bet you recognize at least one of these numbers.  These are competitive item numbers from some of the big vendors who make tube fittings. And from years of experience you might recognize what specific fitting this is: 3/8” tube connection by ¼” male NPT, straight fitting.

We have all seen those “For Dummies” books.  And we understand the point of them is to try to make people feel more comfortable tackling something new.  And apparently they work.

Unfortunately, there is not really any sort of “Working with High Pressure, Critical Applications, Tubing, Connectors, and Valves for Dummies” book.  And if there was, possibly no one would read it.

With more and more “Baby Boomers” retiring and the “Generation-X” right behind them trying to find the ever elusive work-life balance, American precision parts manufacturers are struggling to find experienced, skilled labor. As technology advances, so does the requirement for more complicated and precise machined components.