Tags: Pipe Fitting
Belled End fittings are used instead of buttwelded fittings. They are a lot faster to install because there is no nead to bevel the connecting pipe and because making up the weld is a lot faster. Additionally, the bell fitting is more forgiving for slight misalignments in pipe. A belled end fitting is similar to a socketweld fitting in that a single fillet weld is needed to attach the pipe to the fitting, proper. This type of weld is much faster and easier to make than a buttweld fitting, which may require multiple passes with the welding rod. 
Example of Belled Ends
The size and dimensions of belled end fittings are governed by standard MSS SP-119 Factory-Made Wrought Belled End Socket-Welding Fittings and were standardized in 1996. Belled end pipe fittings are widely used in the process design for the chemical, petrochemical, pulp and paper, power generation, pharmaceuticals, and other specialty industries, such as Navy ships.
Belled end pipe fittings IAW MSS SP119 (2003 -latest edition) are equal to ANSI B16.9 standard dimensioned buttwelding pipe fittings in Maximum Allowable Design Internal Pressures. Belled end pipe fittings and B16.9 buttwelding fittings are now code recognized as equal in burst allowances.
Belled End Pipe Fitting Advantages and Disadvantages
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- One of the primary advantages of belled end fittings is their ease of installation. The flared end allows pipes to be connected without the need for additional couplings or joints.
- Belled end pipe fittings can be welded four to seven times faster than the standard buttwelding fittings!
- In most cases only one pass is needed to create a good fillet weld. In addition, nearly all the pre-weld end prep and fit up is eliminated with the belled end pipe fitting.
- The belled end design can contribute to a more secure and leak resistant connection. The larger surface area of the flared end provides better sealing when connected to another pipe or fitting.
- The wrought cold formed belled end pipe fitting eliminates the problems of misalignment and wall thickness mismatch that are inherent to buttwelded joints.
- Since belled end fittings can eliminate the need for extra couplings or connectors, there may be cost savings in terms of both material and labor during the installation process.
- The flared end can help promote smoother fluid flow within the pipes, reducing the risk of turbulence and minimizing pressure drops.
- Less experienced welders can easily produce good fillet welds using belled end pipe fittings.
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- Belled end pipe fittings are used for low pressure type applications.
- The belled end design may require more space during installation compared to other types of connections, especially in tight or confined spaces.
- Belled end fittings may not be suitable for all applications. Certain industries or systems may have specific requirements that make other types of connections more appropriate.
- It's important to ensure that belled end pipes and fittings are compatible with the specific system and materials being used. Incompatibility can lead to issues such as corrosion or degradation over time.
- While belled end fittings can offer cost savings in some cases, the initial cost of the fittings themselves may be higher than other types. It's essential to consider the overall cost-effectiveness in the context of the entire project.
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