What Are The Different Types of Air Hose Fittings?

What Are Air Hose Fittings?

Air hose fittings are key components used to connect pneumatic tubing or air hoses. Their primary function is to ensure the safe, stable, and leak-free transfer of compressed air from one component to another within a pneumatic system. They are widely used in air compressors, pneumatic tools, cylinders, valves, filtration and pressure regulating systems, and various automated equipment.

The function of air hose fittings is to connect pneumatic hoses to equipment, connect hoses to hoses, extend or split airflow, ensure reliable transmission and distribution of compressed air throughout the pneumatic system, and achieve sealed, pressure-resistant, and shock-resistant air circuit connections.

Why Are High-Quality Air Hose Fittings so Important for Pneumatic Systems?

In a pneumatic system, air from the air compressor undergoes drying, filtration, and pressure regulation before being delivered to each pneumatic component via pneumatic tubing/air hoses.

Air hose fittings are the connecting nodes in this air delivery chain.They directly affect:

Air leakage in the air path

System pressure stability

Cylinder actuation stability

Sufficient power for pneumatic tools

System efficiency and pipeline lifespan

Common Types of Air Hose Fittings (by Connection Method)

Air hose fittings can be categorized into 4 following types based on their connection method:

Push-to-Connect Fittings

These fittings achieve a "plug-and-lock" connection through internal claws and a sealing ring. Available in SMC, Mini, Stainless steel, and Full Brass Nickel Plated, they are suitable for connecting pneumatic hoses made of PU, PA, PE, PTFE, etc., offering quick and efficient plug-and-lock action.

Barbed Fittings

These fittings feature a multi-layered barbed structure at the end. The hose is fitted onto the barbed end, and the friction and engagement between the barbs and the inner wall of the hose secures it. Used for flexible air hoses such as rubber hoses and PVC hoses, these require a hose clamp for fixation and offer high tensile strength.

Threaded Hose Fittings

These fittings offer threaded connections (either external or internal threads) for the male and female ends, providing high reliability. Used for equipment ports, they support various thread standards such as BSP, NPT, and Metric. Suitable for high-pressure applications.

Hose Couplings / Quick Couplers

These connectors offer a plug-and-play quick connection.They consist of a female connector (Coupler) and a male connector (Plug). A quick air connection is achieved by pulling the female connector sleeve, inserting the male connector, and releasing to automatically lock it in place.

Commonly Used In: Air Compressors and Various Pneumatic Tools

In which air delivery scenarios do Air Hose Fittings serve?

Air compressors: Deliver compressed air from the outlet to tools or equipment.

Pneumatic tubing systems: Connect sensors, cylinders, and valves in automated equipment.

Air tools: Utilize highly flexible pneumatic tools such as air wrenches, air drills, and spray guns, requiring quick-connect couplings to connect hoses for air delivery.

Manufacturing & Automation: Deliver a stable supply of air on assembly lines and robotic arms.

Machinery & equipment: Ensure the sealing and stability of the entire pneumatic circuit.

Fokca Pneumatics manufactures and supplies a wide variety of pipe fittings, including pneumatic fittings for the pneumatic industry and hydraulic fittings for the hydraulic industry. Each fitting offers different connection methods, including insert locking connections, hose sleeve + clamp fixation, threaded connections, and plug-in quick connections. If you are struggling to find the right fittings, please browse our website or contact us directly for the latest catalog and pricing.