The four-way fitting is a pipe fitting used in pipeline systems to connect four pipes. It is named for its "cross" shape (four interfaces) and is mainly used to change the flow direction of fluids or achieve the convergence and diversion of multiple pipes. It is widely used in pipeline systems in fields such as chemical engineering, petroleum, natural gas, water treatment, and construction.

Classification and Characteristics

According to structure and application, four-way fittings can be mainly classified into the following types:

Equal diameter four-way

Feature: The pipe diameters of the four interfaces are exactly the same.

Application: Suitable for connecting four pipes of the same diameter, ensuring uniform distribution or convergence of fluids in each branch.

Four-way reducer

Feature: At least one of the four interfaces has a different pipe diameter from the others (for example, three interfaces have the same pipe diameter and one is different; Or they are different in pairs.

Purpose: It is used to connect pipes of different diameters to meet the requirements of diameter variation. Attention should be paid to the smoothness of fluid flow direction.

Diagonal four-way

Features: The interfaces are at a certain Angle (not 90° vertical), and are typically used in scenarios such as drainage systems where there are special requirements for the direction of water flow.

Usage: To reduce water flow impact and lower noise, it is commonly found in bathroom drainage pipes.

Classification according to manufacturing processes

Pressed four-way: Formed by die pressing, with high precision, suitable for medium and small pipe diameters.

Welded four-way: It is assembled by cutting and welding pipes and is suitable for large pipe diameters or high-pressure scenarios.
Cast four-way: Produced through casting process, it has a complex structure but a relatively low cost, and is suitable for low-pressure systems.

Main application scenarios

Industrial piping system

It is used for multi-pipeline material mixing or diversion in chemical and oil refineries.

Connecting gas pipelines in different directions during natural gas transmission.

Building water supply and drainage

Multiple drainage branch pipes (such as diagonal four-way pipes) are connected in the drainage systems of bathrooms and kitchens.

Heating and cooling systems

Branch connections of central air conditioning pipes and heating pipes.

Fire protection system

Multi-directional pipe layout is achieved in fire hydrant pipes or sprinkler systems.