All Black Pipe
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Wholesale PricingThese are black steel Schedule 40 pipe nipples: the short threaded connectors used to join sections of fire suppression system distribution piping, gas lines, and industrial fluid systems. A nipple is simply a short length of pipe with male NPT threads on both ends, used to connect two female-threaded fittings or to bridge a small gap in a piping run. In commercial kitchen fire suppression system installations, black steel nipples are the standard connection hardware for ANSUL R-102, Piranha, Range Guard, and other suppression system distribution piping networks.
Select your pipe diameter and length from the dropdown. All nipples are Schedule 40 carbon steel construction, welded and threaded to ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 NPT standards, and finished with a black varnish coating that resists surface oxidation. Material meets ASTM A-53 / A-733 specifications. Compatible with all standard black iron fittings, elbows, tees, and couplings used in fire suppression system piping.
| Diameter | Common Use in Fire Suppression |
|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | Small-bore actuation and pilot lines |
| 3/8 inch | ANSUL R-102, Range Guard, and Piranha distribution piping, the most common size for kitchen suppression system nozzle branch lines |
| 1/2 inch | Distribution headers and larger branch runs in multi-nozzle configurations |
| 3/4 inch | Main distribution supply lines and gas piping connections |
| 1 inch | High-flow distribution mains and larger gas line connections |
| 1-1/4 inch | Large system mains and commercial gas line applications |
Length options range from close nipples (the shortest possible, just enough thread for a fitting on each end) through 1-1/2", 2", 2-1/2", 3", 3-1/2", 4", 4-1/2", 5", 5-1/2", and 6" lengths. Select the length needed to bridge the specific gap in your piping run, when in doubt, measure the distance between the two fittings before ordering.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Material | Carbon steel, welded and threaded |
| Schedule | Schedule 40 |
| Thread Standard | ANSI/ASME B1.20.1 NPT (National Pipe Taper) |
| Material Standard | ASTM A-53 / A-733 |
| Finish | Black varnish, surface oxidation resistance |
| Ends | Male NPT both ends |
| Applications | Fire suppression distribution piping, gas lines (LP and natural), steam, oil, industrial fluid systems |
Can these be used for fire suppression system distribution piping?
Yes. Black steel Schedule 40 pipe nipples are the standard material for ANSUL R-102, Piranha, Range Guard, and other commercial kitchen fire suppression system distribution piping. Verify the correct pipe size for your specific system using the system design documentation, most R-102 and Range Guard nozzle branch runs use 3/8-inch pipe. All piping installation must be performed by a licensed fire suppression contractor following the system design documentation and applicable NFPA standards.
What is the difference between a close nipple and a short nipple?
A close nipple has threads running almost the full length with only a very short unthreaded center, the minimum length that can be manufactured with full threads on both ends. A short nipple has a slightly longer unthreaded center, making it easier to grip with a wrench during installation. For tight-clearance applications in suppression system piping, close nipples are often necessary. For general connections with adequate working clearance, short nipples are easier to install and remove during service.
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