How to Properly Install a Swagelok Tube Fitting
Proper installation is essential to achieving the leak-tight performance, reliability, and safety that Swagelok® tube fittings are designed to deliver. In this video, you will learn the recommended procedure for installing a Swagelok tube fitting and gain a better understanding of the principles behind a dependable tube connection. Correct fitting assembly helps reduce the risk of leaks, supports long-term system performance, and can simplify maintenance and troubleshooting activities. For more detailed guidance on tubing preparation, installation best practices, inspection, and system design considerations, consult the Swagelok Tube Fitter's Manual. Explore the Tube Fitting Advantage to learn how Swagelok's engineering expertise, quality standards, and fluid system support services help customers build reliable fluid systems worldwide.
Video Transcript
Swagelok tube fittings come to you fully assembled and ready to install. Remember that bulkhead fittings are the only connections that require disassembly before installation. All other tube fitting configurations do not need to be disassembled prior to installation.
You need only standard wrenches and a marker to complete installation properly. Good tube handling practice calls for the inspection of the tube to ensure that it is free of burrs and scratches.
Follow three easy steps to make up the Swagelok tube fitting. First, fully insert the tubing into the fitting and against the shoulder. Rotate the nut finger-tight. Second, mark the nut at the 6 o’clock position. Third, while holding the fitting body steady with a vise or backup wrench, tighten the nut one and one-quarter turns until the mark reaches the 9 o’clock position.
The Swagelok tube fitting has now been properly assembled to provide robust tube grip, gas seal, and vibration resistance for dependable, leak-free performance. For 1/16, 1/8, and 3/16 inch, and 2, 3, and 4 millimeter tube fitting sizes, tighten the nut three-quarters of a turn to the 3 o’clock position.
On initial installation, use the Swagelok gap inspection gauge to ensure that the Swagelok tube fitting has been sufficiently tightened. Position the gap inspection gauge next to the gap between the nut and 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.
You may disassemble and reassemble Swagelok tube fittings many times. To reassemble, insert the tubing with preswaged ferrules into the fitting body until the front ferrule seats. Rotate the nut with a wrench to the previously pulled-up position. At this point, you will encounter a significant increase in resistance. Finally, tighten the nut slightly with a wrench.
Do not use the Swagelok gap inspection gauge with reassembled fittings. If you have any questions about this process, please contact your authorized Swagelok sales and service representative.
