The latest report on the market situation and trends for fittings and pipe connections in Europe was published by KWD-globalpipe in 2012. In this time again the development of connecting techniques for pipe systems has been rapid with no end in sight.

The drive of the pipe systems industry creating new or improved fitting constructions is unabated, as well as the advancing use of polymeric materials instead of metal. But this does not mean that metal will be out of the game soon. This has led to numerous more or less convincing fitting solutions mostly aimed at simplifying the connecting process and/or shortening the installation time. From tool-free compression joints and „raxial“ press fittings to push fittings in a variety of different designs – there seem to be no limits to imagination.

But it looks that especially the push fit constructions will make the running among all other novelties – indeed in a relatively small market niche! As predicted the almost old-fashioned radial press fitting has achieved to be accepted as a worldwide industrial standard. Sophisticated designs, large quantities and increasing compatibility of pressing tools have paved the way for that.

In light of this stream of innovations it is increasingly difficult even for experts to keep track of things. Which fitting made of which material is best suited for which type of pipe and application? What is the difference between the joining techniques available and which are the most important suppliers?

Special attention of the new report is focused on trends and developments of the main fitting types like press-, push- or screw fits in major European markets, as well as the possible development of the main fitting material like metal versus plastic in the next years.

Contents of the Fitting Report:

1.  Fittings and pipe connections Europe 2016
2.  Terms and definitions
3.  A brief look back
4.  Basic designs of pipe connections
5.  Analysis of used fittings by connection type
6.  Fitting Trends 2016
7.  Consumption of fittings by pipe material Europe 2014-2018
8.  Detailed listing of fittings Europe 2016
9.  Company profiles alphabetical

Author of this KWD Report are the chief-editor of the KWD newsletters Dipl.-Ing. Jutta Hix and the consultant for plastic pipes Achim Seydel.

Price Information: 19 Countries, 220 pages, in English language, printed book and digital version, Consumption of Fittings in Europe and detailed listing of fittings as Excel file. 940,- € for subscribers of KWD-SHK or KWD-globalpipe; 1.190,- € for all others.

Zhejiang xinniu pipe CO., LTD.