What is the main purpose of a pipe fitting?

The primary purpose of a pipe fitting is to connect, redirect, or terminate piping systems. Pipe fittings play a crucial role in the overall integrity and functionality of plumbing and piping networks. By facilitating the joining of different sections of pipe, they help create a closed system that allows for the efficient flow of liquids and gases. Additionally, fittings can change the direction of piping—such as in bends or elbows—allowing systems to navigate around obstacles while maintaining proper flow paths. They can also be used to terminate pipes at various endpoints, ensuring that the system functions as intended.

In terms of the other options, maintaining temperature relates to thermal insulation or thermal management, which is not the primary role of pipe fittings. Measuring fluid pressure is a function of pressure gauges or sensors rather than pipe fittings themselves. Supporting heavy loads is typically the function of structural elements or supports rather than fittings used in plumbing or piping systems. Thus, the connecting and redirecting capabilities of pipe fittings are central to their purpose in any piping system.