Compression Fittings - A Complete Guide

Compression fittings are mechanical joints used to connect pipes without the need for heat or solvent welding. They create a watertight seal by compressing a split or solid ring (olive) onto the pipe as a nut is tightened.

At Pipekit we supply PE compression fittings from Philmac and Irritec who are leading manufacturers offering robust, high-performance solutions trusted by professional plumbers worldwide. This is alongside Masterflow brass compression fittings which are available to purchase over our trade counter and by contacting our sales team. Brass compression fittings can be preferred if the application involves high pressure or temperature due to their durability.

What Are the Best Compression Fittings?

The best compression fittings combine reliability, ease of installation, and certified performance across a range of applications. For PE (polyethylene) pipe systems, Philmac and Irritec are two of the most trusted brands used by professional plumbers, utility contractors, and agricultural engineers.

Philmac fittings stand out with their 3G metric/imperial technology, allowing universal compatibility across different pipe standards. They are known for fast, tool-free installation—even in wet or remote environments—and are WRAS-approved, making them ideal for potable water systems and rural supply lines.

Irritec fittings are engineered for long-term performance in irrigation, pressure water systems, and agriculture, offering a wide selection of durable compression fittings made from high-strength polypropylene. These fittings carry approvals such as DVGW and KIWA, ensuring they meet strict European safety and quality standards.

Philmac Elbow 45deg
Philmac Elbow 45deg
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Philmac Elbow Met/Imp
Philmac Elbow Met/Imp
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Philmac Elbow Met/Imp
Philmac Elbow Met/Imp
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Philmac End Caps
Philmac End Caps
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Philmac Female Adaptors
Philmac Female Adaptors
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What Compression Fittings Are Available?

Both Philmac and Irritec brands offer a wide range of fitting types including:

  • Male and female adaptors
  • Couplings (equal and reducing)
  • Elbows and tees
  • End caps and stop valves

With their high build quality, broad compatibility, and trusted certifications, Philmac and Irritec compression fittings are widely regarded as the best choice for professional-grade PE pipe installations.

Best Material For Compression Fittings

PE (polyethylene) compression fittings are ideal for water supply, irrigation, and agricultural applications. Their lightweight, corrosion-resistant polypropylene bodies make them easy to handle and install, even in tough site conditions.

These fittings are designed for use with MDPE pipe and are fully approved for potable water systems (WRAS, KIWA, DVGW), ensuring compliance with safety and hygiene standards. Philmac’s 3G technology also ensures compatibility with both metric and imperial pipes, making system upgrades and repairs easier.

Metal compression fittings are better suited for high-pressure or indoor building services like heating, hot water, or compressed air. Masterflow's brass compression fittings offer excellent mechanical strength and thermal resistance, making them more suitable for demanding or enclosed environments such as gas, compressed air and water applications. These come WRAS approved and connect to a wide range of tubes in accordance with EN1254-2.

Compare with similar items

Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 901 Female Adaptor
Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 901 Female Adaptor
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Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 910 Coupling
Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 910 Coupling
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Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 911 Male Adaptor
Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 911 Male Adaptor
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Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 912 Reducer Coupling
Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 912 Reducer Coupling
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Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 913 90 Deg Elbow
Irritec Connecto Plus Ultra 913 90 Deg Elbow
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Price
£1.66
£2.54
£1.47
£2.74
£2.54
Brand
Irritec
Irritec
Irritec
Irritec
Irritec

How To Fit Compression Fittings?

Fitting compression fittings for PE pipe is a straightforward process and requires no specialist tools, making it ideal for quick and reliable installations on-site. Whether you're working with Philmac or Irritec fittings, the general method involves cutting the pipe cleanly, inserting it fully into the fitting until it reaches the internal stop, and tightening the nut to create a secure, watertight seal. These fittings are designed to grip and seal without the need for heat or glue.

Typical sizes in the Philmac and Irritec ranges include 20mm to 110mm, with options in both metric and imperial formats. Pipekit also supplies a wide range of complementary products, such as valves, adaptors, and reducers, allowing full system builds from a single supplier.

When connecting different material types—for example, PE to copper or brass—it’s important to use the correct transitional fittings or inserts to ensure compatibility and avoid leaks or pressure loss. For specific setups, our team is always on hand to offer expert technical advice to ensure your installation is compliant, efficient, and long-lasting.

What Certifications Do Compression Fittings Have?

PE compression fittings from leading brands like Philmac and Irritec are fully certified for potable water and pressure applications, carrying approvals such as WRAS, KIWA, DVGW, and AS/NZS 4129. These standards ensure the fittings meet strict requirements for mechanical strength, leak-tightness, and material safety in water distribution systems.

Our sales team are available to ensure you chose the correct fitting to suit your application. Contact us on 01743 860088or email enquiries@pipekit.co.uk for expert advice on our full range of compression fittings.