Intermix and Interchange

Why You Should Not Intermix or Interchange Tube Fittings from Different Manufacturers

Fluid and analytical instrumentation systems rely on dozens of quality components working harmoniously to keep operations running efficiently. Any performance lapses can result in leaks, potential safety concerns, and system downtime.

One way to prevent these issues is to build your fluid systems with tube fittings from a single manufacturer. Claims that tube fitting components can be intermixed and interchanged with those of different manufacturers should be questioned. There are no products from other manufacturers that are proven to be Swagelok-compatible. It can be not only costly, but risky to intermix brands or interchange brands of fittings as it may compromise worker safety by introducing unnecessary risk into system operation.

Do you or your installers regularly intermix or interchange tube fittings based on claims that other manufacturers’ fittings, nuts, or ferrules are Swagelok-compatible? If so, read on to learn the reasons why tube fitting intermix and tube fitting interchange can lead to poor fluid system performance.