Material Notes: ABS Bulkhead Fittings
Our bulkhead fittings are manufactured from high-quality ABS, a durable and impact-resistant material well suited for aquariums, hydroponic systems, tanks, and plumbing applications.
ABS bulkhead fittings install and bond using standard PVC solvent cement and primers, so no special adhesives or installation techniques are required. This allows ABS bulkheads to be used seamlessly with common PVC piping and fittings.
In addition to chemical compatibility, ABS offers excellent toughness and resistance to cracking, making it a practical choice for environments where durability and reliability are important.
Bulkhead Styles Explained
All of our bulkhead fittings have female openings on both sides. This is where you will make your connections. The differences are how you attach your fittings or pipe to them.
- Slip (Glue) Bulkheads
Slip bulkheads are designed to accept pipe that is glued directly into the fitting using standard PVC solvent cement. The connection is permanent and strong, with no threading required.
- Threaded Bulkheads:
These fittings feature female threads on one or both ends and connect easily to MALE threaded pipe or adapters. They are ideal when plumbing may need disassembly or adjustment. Examples of Male fittings include Male Adapters, PVC Nipples, Threaded Street Elbows, etc. Depending upon how you’re configuring your plumbing will determine which male fittings you will use.
When we discuss a Bulkhead Fitting’s connection we will ALWAYS refer to the FLANGE end FIRST. Therefore, the picture below is Thread x Slip (TxS).
Bulkhead options are:
- Slip x Slip
- Slip on both ends. Requires you to use Spigot (commonly referred to as SLIP) fittings or PVC pipe on each end of the bulkhead. PVC cement is required for a water-tight seal. You can glue any type of Spigot fitting, including a Spigot reducer if you require a smaller size on one end.
- Thread x Thread
- Female pipe threads on both ends.
- Thread x Slip
- Female pipe threads on the flange end and slip on the “nut” end.
- Slip x Thread
- Slip on the Flange end and threads on the “nut” end.
All of your fittings need to be attached to the inside of each side of the bulkhead.
The threads on the outside of the bulkheads will not fit any kind of PVC threads, These threads are for the retaining nut to thread on to and tighten the bulkhead when installing.
Design & Construction Notes
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Thick-Wall Construction:
Our bulkhead fittings are manufactured with thicker walls than standard Schedule 40 PVC fittings, providing added strength and durability for demanding applications such as aquariums, hydroponic systems, and tanks. -
EPDM Gaskets:
Each bulkhead uses a UV-stabilized EPDM gasket designed to resist wear and weathering. The soft gasket material helps conform to mating surfaces for a reliable, leak-free seal. -
Tapered Ends:
Bulkhead ends are tapered to accommodate nominal PVC pipe tolerances, allowing compatibility with common domestic pipe standards and easier installation. -
Manufactured in the USA:
All bulkheads are produced domestically, allowing close oversight of manufacturing processes and consistent quality control.
