Learning the Difference Between Fittings and Adapters

October 8, 2021

There are many crucial tools in the world of plumbing that serve unique and irreplaceable functions. Every network of pipes has essential pieces that can be replaced, upgraded and repaired to keep the water flowing at ideal rates. Two of these pieces, however, can be confused by amateurs or those who lack practical time with their tools. These are Fittings and Adapters. Though the terminology may be used interchangeably, the two pieces are very different and serve different functions in any given pipework.


What are Fittings?

Fittings are the joining parts that connect hard machine parts to tubes and other pipes. They must be fit onto one end securely and join with a larger component. The other end is then used to attach hoses, nozzles or pipes that otherwise couldn’t connect to the core component that they are leading into. These can also bridge between different standard measurements, allowing ORB ends to connect with JIC ends, as well as leading male-to-male connections if necessary. 


The function of a Fitting is to be easily replaceable or mobile from its core connection. It allows outer components to be more easily swapped out, if a new hose or pipe requires a different end to meet the core component, a fitting can bridge the gap immediately as long as it has the correct ends. 


What are Adapters?

Adapters are components which join two or more component ends, or threads, together. They are T-shaped, Cross-shaped or occasionally just simple two-ended components which allow for an easy transfer between multiple different component standards. 


Adapters are used for much more complex workings that need multiple connections going to and from a single component. Pumps that need to send fluid to multiple sources from a single output require adapters to make all of those connections. Adapters are also made specifically to bridge between different component standards, allowing exchange between SAE, JIC, ORB, Metric, NPT and other classifications. 


Why the Confusion?

The main confusion comes from the shared terminology of the two components. Adapters can function as fittings, in that they can only connect two pieces together, but not all adapters are fittings because many adapters are made to connect more than two things together, or have more than one component end type that need to lead into one another. There’s also the core function of bridging component standards that normally aren’t compatible. Fittings are normally used with like standards, serving as a bridge between two threads that aren’t compatible by nature. A fitting is needed for a hose to connect to a pump. An adapter is needed to connect the pump to more than one hose, where each hose may be of a different standard.


In some cases, the job of fittings and adapters can be interchangeable, and the choice of component comes down to availability. Fittings are the first tool you should consider for what goes into an open port, and adapters should be used in later stages of plumbing to make the whole system flow together. 


October 22, 2025
In the world of industrial supply, especially when it comes to hydraulic hoses and fittings, what truly sets a provider apart isn’t just product stock. It’s relationships . At Action Supply, we’ve built our business over four decades on more than inventory: we’ve built it on reliability, responsiveness, and customers trusting us as their go-to partner. The Local Partner Advantage Faster turnaround : Local on-site hose assemblies, quick access to inventory, and the ability to respond when downtime is unacceptable. We work hard to complete your projects with higher quality and fast turn around times. Better communication : You’re dealing with a team that knows your region, your industry, and your challenges—not a generic call center. Inventory you can count on : When your partner manages stock on-site or nearby, you’re less likely to face costly delays. Action Supply offers inventory management services to keep critical parts ready when you need them. Service & Support That Make the Difference Here’s how we add value for our customers year-round: Custom Hose Assemblies On-Site : We don’t just stock hoses; we build them to spec, on-site, matching exact lengths, fittings, and ratings so there’s no guess-work or field fabrication headaches. Consultation & Technical Guidance : Hydraulic systems are complex. We help customers select the right hose, fitting, and coupling for factors like pressure, fluid compatibility, abrasion, and environment. Speed When It Counts : Downtime kills productivity. Having a local partner means faster pick-up, faster delivery, and in many cases, faster problem resolution because we’re already on-site or nearby. Proactive Inventory Planning : From planned maintenance to emergency response, we partner with customers to anticipate needs rather than just react. A true partnership means fewer surprises. A Long-Term View: Why Trust Matters Relationships are built on consistency over time. At Action Supply, our “we’ve worked hard for over 40 years” mindset means we place value on being there for our customers today…and five, ten, twenty years down the road. That long-term presence gives customers the confidence to count on us for standard supply, for emergency replacement, and for growth scale-up. When you know your supply partner will show up, send the right part, understand your system, and back it with service, you’re not just buying hoses or fittings. You’re buying peace of mind. How to Make the Most of Your Supply Partner Here are a few actions to ensure your local supply relationship delivers maximum value: Treat them as part of your team : Share your upcoming projects, shutdown schedules, and maintenance plans with your supply partner. Engage early : Instead of reaching out only when a hose fails, loop in your supply partner during planning or design phases. Keep open communication : Share what matters to you (lead time, budget constraints, delivery windows) and let them tailor service accordingly. Leverage their expertise : Ask questions about alternatives, better materials, and long-term cost savings.  In industrial operations, margins are tight, downtime is costly, and every component matters. At Action Supply, we believe relationships matter because when you win, we win. And when you’re up against the clock, facing tough specs, or dealing with complex hydraulic systems, you’ll appreciate having a partner who’s local, dedicated, and backed by decades of experience.
September 17, 2025
When uptime, safety, and fluid integrity matter, choosing the correct fitting is the difference between a reliable system and unexpected downtime. The right fitting ensures a leak-free seal, matches pressure and fluid compatibility, and simplifies serviceability in the field. Action Supply builds and manages custom hose assemblies daily and can help match fittings to your exact application. Material Selection: Match the Environment Material choice impacts corrosion resistance, strength, and cost. Stainless steel (316 where marine exposure or salt spray is present) offers excellent corrosion resistance and strength for structural or submerged fittings. Brass is economical and machinable, and performs well in many freshwater or general industrial applications, but can corrode faster in saline environments. Choose material based on fluid chemistry, temperature, and exposure to salt or corrosives. A Practical Checklist for Choosing Fittings Identify the media: hydraulic oil, freshwater, saltwater, chemical — materials and sealing change accordingly. Confirm pressure & temperature ratings: match fittings and hose to the system’s max working and burst pressures. Match thread type and size: NPT ≠ BSP — use thread gauges or manufacturer tables if unsure. Choose sealing method: metal-to-metal (37° JIC/AN), ORFS face-seal, or thread-seal (NPT + tape/compound). Account for serviceability: will techs need to disconnect often? Choose fittings that tolerate repeated assembly. Plan for corrosion: in marine or corrosive environments choose 316 stainless, bronze, or specially coated parts. Document and label: record part numbers, thread specs, and orientation to remove guesswork on replacements. Installation & Testing Tips Use the correct torque spec for the fitting type; overtightening can damage seals or distort threads. For ORFS, always replace O-rings during reassembly and inspect sealing surfaces for nicks. For pipe threads (NPT), use appropriate thread sealant or PTFE tape and apply properly (direction, number of wraps). Pressure-test new assemblies at the manufacturer-recommended proof pressure before returning equipment to service. When to Call the Experts at Action Supply If your job is complex (mixed standards on site, high-pressure hydraulic systems, or marine installations), bring the assembly to the shop or have Action Supply’s on-site team build and verify the assembly. We offer on-site hose assemblies, inventory management, and industry-grade fittings (including Eaton/Weatherhead hoses and couplings) so you get the right part and verified performance the first time. Call (281) 315-3841 or use our contact form to request on-site assembly or inventory support.
August 11, 2025
Avoid costly downtime this peak season. Learn 5 key warning signs your hydraulic hoses need replacing to keep your equipment safe and productive.