When ordering steel fittings for industrial applications, errors often occur, causing delays, extra costs or technical problems. At Slobrides, we regularly work with distributors and technical buyers throughout Europe. Based on our experience, here are five of the most common mistakes made when ordering fittings and solutions to avoid them.
1. Unclear technical specifications
Error: The enquiry contains a generic designation such as "90° elbow DN80", without specifying the standard and material.
Consequence: The supplier cannot guarantee the correct dimension, wall thickness, tolerance or certification.
Solution: Full technical specifications should always be given, for example:
- EN 10253-2, type B, material P235TR2
- ANSI/ASME B16.9, ASTM A234 WPB material
2. Mixing European and American standards
Error: EN and ANSI fittings appear in the same order, without compatibility checking.
Consequence: Dimensions and tolerances vary, so the elements are not compatible.
Solution: A single standard system (all EN or all ANSI) should be used for each project. If a combination is necessary, transition elements (adaptors) should be used and the supplier should be consulted beforehand.
3. Inadequate selection of materials for the conditions of use
Error: The order contains P245GH carbon steel for an application where stainless material such as AISI 304 or AISI 316 is required.
Consequence: The material is not suitable for corrosive, temperature or pressure conditions.
Solution: Before ordering, please check:
- operating temperature
- type of medium (liquid or gas)
- working pressure
If the information is not known, technical advice should be requested.
4. No requirement for EN 10204/3.1 certification
Error: The order does not include the requirement for EN 10204/3.1 certification.
Consequence: The buyer cannot prove the conformity of the material, which causes problems with inspections or project documentation.
Solution: EN 10204/3.1 certification should always be requested in advance for all fittings where required by law or design.
5. Untested dimensional compatibility
Error: The order includes a DN100 ANSI elbow to be joined to a DN100 EN flange.
Consequence: If the dimensions are not compatible, installation is not possible.
Solution: Dimensional tables or technical drawings should be checked before ordering. Slobrides d.o.o. offers a compatibility check between components according to EN, UNI, DIN and ANSI standards.
Conclusion
Mistakes in ordering fittings are common, but can be prevented with precise technical specifications and clear communication. Slobrides offers:
- technical advice before ordering
- certified materials with traceability
- EN, UNI, ANSI and DIN classifications
- fast delivery from stock
Reliability starts with accurate ordering. We make sure it doesn't stop there.
Reference in zunanji viri:
CEN/CENELEC – European Committee for Standardization: https://www.cencenelec.eu
ISO – International Organization for Standardization: https://www.iso.org
ANSI – American National Standards Institute: https://www.ansi.org