What to Know About Tapers and Taper Bends in Drainage: Purpose, Fitting Accuracy, and Supply
Tapered connectors are specifically designed elements used to link pipes of varying diameters in drainage networks. Their role is to facilitate a gradual size reduction, which helps prevent flow restriction, backflow, or leakage. When drainage systems are expanded, tapers provide a more reliable solution than forcing mismatched pipes together.
Why Taper Bends Make Multi-Tasking Simple
Taper bends combine a shift in pipe direction with a simultaneous reduction in diameter. These fittings are typically available in angles such as 11°, 22.5°, 45°, or 90°, and they’re particularly valuable in installations where space is restricted or multiple transitions are needed. They limit the number of individual components, helping to lower failure points in the system.
Typical Fitting Locations
These fittings are widely installed across various drainage applications:
- In pump chambers, to join outlets to smaller distribution lines
- Throughout retrofit projects with updated or non-standardised pipework
- Across field drainage systems where flow rates and gradients must be kept steady
- Inside wastewater facilities where components need to be space-saving and multi-functional
Correctly applied, these fittings optimise flow, reduce energy loss from turbulence, and help meet compliance benchmarks for water management.
Importance of Correct Fitting Size
Incorrectly sized joints can cause:
- Disturbances in hydraulic pressure
- Build-up of debris
- Accelerated joint degradation
Tapers and taper bends smooth these transitions out by offering a controlled reduction, improving flow performance and reducing long-term maintenance.
Why Choosing the Right Supplier Makes a Difference
Choosing a general merchant might offer convenience, but a specialist drainage supplier brings:
- Greater range of product sizes and angles
- Products designed for field application
- Industry-specific expertise
- Proven quality assurance
A dedicated supplier will have fittings that are not only dimensionally correct but also engineered for actual site demands—ensuring long-term system integrity.
FAQs
Is a taper the same as a reducer?
No. Tapers offer a longer and more gradual size change, which is more effective for systems needing steady flow. Reducers often transition over a short length, which may create turbulence.
Can taper bends be used underground?
Yes, as long as they’re compliant with underground use requirements and follow relevant local guidelines.
Are tapers compatible with clay and plastic pipes?
Tapers are usually manufactured for one pipe type, but adaptors can bridge the gap between clay, plastic, and other pipe materials.
Do taper bends reduce flow performance?
If correctly selected and installed, taper bends maintain consistent flow and can even improve it by reducing pressure drops.
What size taper should I choose?
Measure both ends and factor in hydraulic design to select the correct taper size for the application.
Making the Right Choice for Your System
Whether you're replacing a few components or building a read more new network, fitting the website correct Taper bends tapers and taper bends is central to a low-maintenance and durable drainage setup.
Knowles Drainage supplies a wide variety of precision-fit components tailored for both farm-based and commercial applications, backed by hands-on expertise and a commitment to fit-for-purpose supply.