How to Assemble Tube Adapters (1 inch and Under)
Learn how to manually assemble tube adapters that are 1 in. and under. Designed to complement Swagelok tube fittings, tube adapters enable fitting-to-fitting connections and provide flexibility when joining fluid system components. When selected and installed correctly, tube adapters can help simplify system assembly, address alignment challenges, and support reliable fluid system performance. Used across a wide range of applications, they are an important part of creating secure, leak-tight connections. This video introduces key assembly practices and considerations for installing tube adapters. To complete the task, you will need two open-end wrenches (or one open-end wrench and a vise), a Swagelok gap inspection gauge, and a marker. For additional installation guidance and best practices, refer to the Swagelok Tube Fitter's Manual.
Video Transcript
Welcome to this Swagelok how‑to video. Here’s what you’ll need to perform the procedure shown in this brief video: two open‑end wrenches (or one open‑end wrench and a vise), a Swagelok gap inspection gauge, and a marker. The Swagelok tube adapter is designed to complement the Swagelok tube fitting and allow fitting‑to‑fitting connections. It connects to a Swagelok tube fitting in much the same manner as a tube fitting connects to tubing. This video focuses on the manual assembly of the one‑inch‑and‑under tube adapter. Swagelok tube adapters can help eliminate difficult alignment problems and reduce inventories.
Install the end connection opposite the tube adapter first. Insert the tube adapter into the Swagelok tube fitting. Make sure the tube adapter rests firmly on the shoulder of the tube fitting body and that the nut is finger‑tight. Mark the nut at the six‑o’clock position. Marking the nut at six o’clock leaves no doubt as to the starting and ending positions.
While holding the fitting body steady, tighten the nut one‑and‑one‑quarter turns to the nine‑o’clock position. For 1/16‑, 1/8‑, and 3/16‑inch sizes, and 2, 3, and 4 mm tube fittings, tighten the nut three‑quarters of a turn to the three‑o’clock position.
Tube adapters one inch and under are gaugeable using the Swagelok gap inspection gauge. On initial installation, the gauge assures the installer or inspector that the fitting has been sufficiently tightened. To use the gauge, position it next to the gap between the nut and the body. If the gauge will not enter the gap, the fitting is sufficiently tightened. If the gauge will enter the gap, additional tightening is required.
A benefit of using Swagelok tube fittings and tube adapters is their ability to be disassembled and reassembled many times while retaining the leak‑tight seal. Always depressurize the system before disassembling a Swagelok tube adapter. Prior to disassembly, mark the tube at the back of the nut and mark a line along the nut and fitting‑body flats. Use these marks to ensure that you return the nut to the previously pulled‑up position.
Insert the tube with pre‑swaged ferrules into the fitting until the front ferrule seats against the fitting body. While holding the fitting body steady, rotate the nut with a wrench to the previously pulled‑up position, as indicated by the marks on the tube and flats. At this point, you will feel a significant increase in resistance. Tighten the nut slightly.
Do not use the Swagelok gap inspection gauge with reassembled fittings. Also, do not mix or interchange parts with those of other manufacturers.
Visit Swagelok.com for additional product information. Thank you for watching. We will continue to develop videos like this to help you get the job done. Get more information by watching our other videos or contacting your authorized sales and service center.
