What Is a Tank Connector?

What is a Tank Connector? Also called a tank nipple, an inlet or an outlet, it is an important part of a water tank. Not only do you need these connections to make water available to you, but they should also be leak-proof to protect your water supply. You can find various types of tank connectors, including PVC and Brass, as well as flexible tube systems and hose nippels.

Brass
A Brass tank connector is used to connect two different tanks in one installation. A brass tank connector has two parts: a male thread that protrudes outside of the tank and a threaded cylinder. The tank connectors are usually made of brass and have threads of between 1/2-inch and 1 inch. The tank connector is easy to install and includes a back nut for tightening. This type of tank connector is also referred to as a nipple.

PVC
When you need to connect a PVC tank to another piece of equipment, a PVC tank connector is an ideal option. These fittings have two ends, one plain and threaded for the PVC pipe, and another end that is fitted with backnuts. Depending on the application, you can use either fitting. The process of fitting a tank connector is simple. The step is to cut a hole in the tank's wall. Next, remove the gasket and locknut. Once the gasket and locknut are removed, install the tank connector. Be sure to tighten the locknut, and use the wrench to ensure a secure fit.

Flexible tube system
A flexible tube system for tank connectors is a great choice for secondary containment applications, because they isolate a tank from piping and pumps. Made from ultra-high molecular weight hose, these connectors offer chemical resistance. They also feature two stainless steel bands mechanically attached to the hose. The versatility of a flexible tube system makes it an ideal choice for transitioning through secondary containment. Listed below are some benefits of this type of connector.

Hose nippel
The nippel is a threaded tank connector. It is generally brass and is used for passing through the tank wall. The nippel consists of two parts, a cylinder made of threads and a hexagonal flange at the end with a back nut for tightening. It is important to use gaskets with the nippel for water tanks. The nippel is also available in male and female thread dimensions.

Threaded fittings
There are several types of threaded fittings for tank connectors. The straight tank connector is one type of threaded fitting. It is made of brass and usually passes through the tank wall. It has two parts: a hexagonal flange and a backnut for tightening. It will require appropriate gaskets and washers for proper fit. The male threads on straight tank connectors are typically 3/8-inch and range up to three inches in diameter.

T-bar handle
The T-bar handle for tank connectors rotates a shaft through the use of a dog drive key. The handle is angled to turn left and right and can be center-locked to prevent accidental disengagement. The handle is plastic-capped on both ends to prevent it from falling out of the shaft hole. The shaft of the tank connector tool is a solid metal rod with a hole at one end. It can be adjusted to fit the size of the valve to connect it to the tank.