AN to NPT Adapter Fittings & Connectors

What Is the Difference Between a Pipe Fitting and AN Fitting?

Understanding the difference between pipe fittings (NPT) and AN (Army-Navy) fittings is crucial when it comes to building or modifying fluid transfer systems in your vehicle. Both types of fittings serve essential roles, but they are not interchangeable due to distinct design and threading specifications.

Pipe Fittings (NPT):

NPT, or National Pipe Thread, is a tapered thread commonly used in plumbing and fluid transport systems. NPT fittings have a tapered thread that creates a tight seal when torqued properly. These fittings are identified by their thread size, such as 1/4" NPT or 3/8" NPT.

AN Fittings (Army-Navy Fittings):

AN fittings, also known as Army-Navy fittings, are designed for aerospace and military applications. They use a standardized sizing system based on dash sizes, such as -4AN or -6AN. AN fittings have a 37-degree flare, and they create a seal through the flare rather than the threads. This design provides a more reliable and leak-resistant connection, making AN fittings ideal for high-performance and racing applications.

The key difference between these fittings lies in their sealing mechanism. NPT fittings rely on the threads to create a seal, while AN fittings use a flared design. Attempting to mix these two types of fittings can lead to leaks and potential damage to your vehicle's fluid system components.

Are AN and NPT Compatible?

AN and NPT fittings are not directly compatible due to their differing designs and sealing mechanisms. However, it's possible to create a connection between the two using AN to NPT adapter fittings. These adapters serve as a bridge between the two fitting types, allowing you to connect AN hoses and components to NPT threads.

When using AN to NPT adapter fittings, it's essential to select the correct size and type of adapter to ensure a proper and leak-free connection. Mixing AN and NPT fittings without the appropriate adapters can result in fluid leaks and system failure.

How Much Do AN to NPT Adapters Cost?

The cost of AN to NPT adapter fittings can vary based on factors such as size, material, and brand. Here's a general price range for these adapters:

• Basic Adapters: Simple AN to NPT adapters can start at around $5 to $10.
• Higher-Quality Adapters: Adapters made of higher-quality materials or with special features may range from $10 to $20 or more.
• Custom or Specialty Adapters: Custom-designed or specialty adapters may cost $20 or more, depending on the complexity of the design.

Your choice of AN to NPT adapter fittings should align with your specific needs, whether you're building a custom fuel system, upgrading your vehicle's plumbing, or making modifications for racing or performance purposes. Selecting the right adapters ensures a secure and efficient connection between AN and NPT fittings.

Explore our selection of AN to NPT adapter fittings to find the right options for your project and enjoy reliable fluid system connections.