swagelok vs compression fittings

**bf514921** · 01-23-2012, 08:14 PM

I was wondering if anyone has used both compression fittings versus the swage lok fittings, if either works or what one would preferd, i am about the upgrade my electric MLT with a herms coil, this includes updating dip tube. here is exaples of swagelok and compression fittings
http://www.bargainfittings.com/index.php?route=product/product&path=46&product_id=94 and

scroll down a little to see the kettle fitting with the swage lok

http://www.weldlessfittings.com/kettlefittings.html

is there any difference? pros cons?

**Bobby_M** · 01-23-2012, 08:54 PM

Swagelok is a BRAND of compression fitting. The brand really doesn't matter. However, Swagelok has been used to describe all compression fittings in some circles just like "bandaid" is used to name all bandages in common conversation.

**Ben58** · 01-23-2012, 09:01 PM

^^ What Bobby said. It's more of price point for our uses.

**bf514921** · 01-23-2012, 09:12 PM

well i think my question is more of, the swage lok is an all mettal compression fitting, there are also compression fitting that use high temp o-rings, is one better than other, or if ou can swing it, is the metal compression fitting better vs the o-ring compressin, really appreciat the info

**Bobby_M** · 01-23-2012, 09:46 PM

All compression fittings come stock with metal ferrules and it makes for a permanent connection to the piece of tubing. Once you tighten it down for real, the metal ring gets mechanically bonded to the tubing and provides a sealing surface that the compression nut pushes against the interior taper.

The homebrew market is what drove the use of orings stacked as a replacement ferrule. I don't know who came up with it but it allows for a seal with hand tightening of the nut and it's not permanent. I supply both the orings and the original metal ferrules with my diptubes.

**bf514921** · 01-24-2012, 01:57 AM

Bobby_m i aprecieate all the info , i am just wondering the longeity or eaes of use for the o-rings vs metal, i am lucky enought if the swagelok is better i can spring for it, but if i don't get any added benefit, compressions with oring works for me. just trying to make the better choice for my setup

**Bobby_M** · 01-24-2012, 02:05 AM

If I thought the metal ferrules were better, I wouldn't incur the additional expense and effort for the silicone orings. If you didn't like it, you can replace the orings with the included metal ferrules and permanently "swage" them onto the tubing.

**bf514921** · 01-24-2012, 02:15 AM

thats cool bobby, so i am thinking the compressionfittings with the orings are a better option for me. I was just trying to understand the difference, if there was one or if one option was "better" than the other. I do appreciate th input.

**JayberQue** · 03-27-2012, 03:30 AM

so when using the older style (single ferrule) compression fitings do you replace the ferrule with the o-rings or use them in conjunction some how? And with the "swagelok" style fittings can you use o-rings or do you have to use the derlin plastic ferrule?

**Bobby_M** · 03-27-2012, 01:42 PM

I recommend removing all metal ferrules and replacing with a short stack of orings in almost all cases as long as it's for low pressure situations. You really can't beat how easy it is to seal and remove the connection by hand.