When selecting the right valve for your application, it's not just about the valve type or material — the end connection plays a critical role in ensuring reliable performance, ease of installation, and maintenance. The end connection type determines how a valve is fitted into a pipeline and influences factors such as pressure ratings, sealing performance, and long-term system integrity.
In this article, we’ll walk through the most common types of valve end connections, along with their advantages, typical applications, and industry considerations.
1. Threaded (Screwed) Ends
Threaded end valves use screw threads (male or female) to connect with the pipeline.
Common Thread Types:
NPT (National Pipe Thread) – Common in North America
BSPT/BSPP (British Standard) – Used in Europe and Asia
Advantages:
Easy to install and remove
No need for welding
Cost-effective for smaller valves
Applications:
General service pipelines
Allow for easy assembly and disassembly during maintenance.
Systems where welding isn’t feasible due to fire hazards or accessibility
2. Flanged Ends
Flanged valves have machined flanges that are bolted to pipe flanges using gaskets for sealing.
Advantages:
Strong and leak-resistant
Easy to install, remove, or inspect
Standardized dimensions (ASME, DIN, JIS, etc.)
Applications:
Oil & gas, chemical, water treatment, and power plants
Larger pipe diameters
Compatible with standardized piping systems across different regions
3. Welded Ends
Types:
Butt Weld – Ends beveled to allow full penetration welding
Socket Weld – Pipe inserts into recessed area before welding
Advantages:
Strongest and most leak-proof joint
Suitable for high-pressure and high-temperature service
Eliminates need for threaded or bolted joints
Applications:
Power plants, refineries, and critical pipelines
Permanent piping systems
High-purity or hazardous media handling
4. Tri-Clamp / Sanitary Ends
These use a clamping mechanism for quick connection and disassembly, mainly used in hygienic environments.
Advantages:
Tool-free assembly and disassembly
Easy to clean (CIP/SIP compatible)
Ideal for maintaining hygiene
Applications:
Food & beverage
Pharmaceutical and biotech
High purity water systems
5. Compression / Tube Fitting Ends
These ends connect to tubes via compression fittings, providing leak-tight seals without welding.
Advantages:
Quick and clean installation
Ideal for small-diameter piping
No heat or threading required
Applications:
Laboratory and instrumentation systems
Semiconductor industry
Pneumatic controls and gas distribution
Choosing the Right Valve End Connection
When selecting the end connection for your valve, consider the following factors:
✅ Pressure and temperature requirements
✅ Pipe material and size
✅ Application environment (hygienic, corrosive, etc.)
✅ Installation and maintenance needs
✅ Regional or industry-specific standards
Conclusion
Each end connection type serves a specific need — whether it's ease of maintenance, cost-efficiency, high-pressure sealing, or hygienic performance. At Anson Flow Corp., we offer a wide range of valve end connections tailored to meet the needs of various industries including oil & gas, chemical, semiconductor, and power.
Need help choosing the best connection for your application?
Contact our team for personalized recommendations and technical support