90-degree Elbow

A 90-degree elbow is a pipe fitting used to change the direction of a pipe by 90 degrees. The most common types are long radius (LR) pipe elbows and short radius (SR) pipe elbows, typically made of materials such as steel, brass, chromium alloy, stainless steel, or plastic. It is widely used in residential and commercial applications. Its structure varies depending on the material, size, and pressure rating.

What are the properties of 90-degree elbows

1. 90-degree elbows can be made of a variety of materials, such as brass, copper, PVC, stainless steel, or iron.

2. Depending on the requirements of the piping system, the inner diameters at both ends can be equal or unequal.

3. The ends of a 90-degree elbow can be connected to the pipe by threading, welding, or brazing. For flexible connection options, the ends can be internally or externally threaded.

4. 90-degree elbows are available in a wide range of sizes, from the smallest 1/8-inch pipe elbow to the largest 48-inch pipe elbow.

What are the materials of 90-degree elbows

90-degree elbows are manufactured using a variety of materials to meet different applications, media, and pressure/temperature requirements. Common materials include:

Stainless steel (e.g., 304, 304L, 316, 316L);

Carbon steel (e.g., A234 WPB);

Alloy steel;

Copper;

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC);

Chronicized polyvinyl chloride (CPVC);

Brass;

Cast iron.

How many types of 90-degree elbows are there

90-degree elbows are mainly divided into two types: long radius pipe elbows (LR) and short radius pipe elbows (SR).

1. Long Radius Elbows

The bending radius (R) is 1.5 times the nominal pipe diameter (NPS) or outer diameter (D) (R = 1.5D). This allows for a smoother turn, reducing friction, turbulence, and pressure drop. This design is usually preferred when space permits and flow efficiency is critical.

2. Short Radius Elbow

The bending radius (R) is equal to the nominal pipe diameter (NPS) or outer diameter (D) (R = 1.0D). This results in a sharper bend, increasing turbulence and pressure drop, but with a more compact structure, suitable for confined spaces requiring a smaller bending radius.

90 degree elbow sizes chart

ASME B16.9 - 90 Degree Elbow Dimensions
Nom Size Inches	OD 'A' mm	Radius 'B' (mm)	Sch STD (kg)	Sch XS (kg)	Sch 160 (kg)	Sch XXS (kg)
1/2	21.3	38	0.09	0.09
3/4	26.7	29	0.14	.09
1	33.4	38	0.18	0.23	0.27	0.36
1 1/4	42.2	48	0.23	0.32	0.45	0.63
1 1/2	48.3	57	0.34	0.45	0.81	0.90
2	60.3	76	0.68	0.9	1.44	1.71
2 1/2	73	95	1.35	1.8	2.70	3.20
3	88.9	114	2.03	2.7	4.05	5.04
3 1/2	101.6	133	2.8	3.83		7.3
4	114.3	152	3.8	5.4	8.5	9.5
5	141.3	190	6.4	9.0	15	17
6	168.3	229	10.4	14	27	28
8	219.1	305	20	31	57	54
10	273	381	35	50	122
12	323.8	457	53	68	207
14	355.6	533	66	86	253
16	406.4	610	91	116	371
18	457.2	686	115	147
20	508	762	139	189
24	610	914	177	234
26	660.4	991	201	273
30	762	1143	331	429
36	914	1372	478	635
42	1067	1600	616	820

How to install 90-degree elbow

Installing a 90-degree elbow is a simple process requiring only some basic plumbing tools.

1. Ensure the pipe end is clean and free of rust, debris, or burrs.

2. Depending on the connection method, the pipe elbow may need to be connected to the pipe via threaded connection, welding, or brazing.

3. Always align the centerline of the pipe elbow with the centerline of the pipe to avoid any blockages or kinks in the system.

4. Test the pipe elbow joint for leaks before operating the system.

Where are 90-degree elbows used?

90-degree pipe elbows are a fundamental component in many industries:

1. Plumbing and Drainage

Residential and commercial water supply and sewage piping.

2. HVAC Systems

Air handling and ventilation ducts.

3. Oil and Gas Industry

Refineries, pipelines, offshore platforms.

4. Chemical and Petrochemical Plants

Used for processing and transporting various chemicals.

5. Power Generation

Used for steam pipelines and cooling water systems.

6. Food Processing and Pharmaceuticals

Used for hygienic and corrosion-resistant piping.

7. General Industrial Applications

Any system requiring a 90-degree change in fluid direction.

Conclusion

In summary, the 90-degree elbow is an important piping fitting widely used in various applications. It is available in a variety of materials, inner diameters, and types, each suitable for different system requirements. Choosing the right pipe elbow can improve system efficiency, reduce friction loss, and extend the service life of the piping system. It is essential to follow the correct installation and testing procedures to prevent leaks and ensure proper operation.