What to Know About Tapers and Taper Bends in Drainage: Purpose, Connection Fit, and Supply
Tapers are purpose-built elements used to connect pipes of different sizes in drainage networks. Their role is to ensure a streamlined size reduction, which helps reduce the chance of flow restriction, backflow, or leakage. When drainage systems are retrofitted, tapers offer a more stable solution than forcing mismatched pipes together.
Taper Bends: Redirection and Size Change in One
Tapered elbow fittings combine a directional change with a simultaneous pipe size transition. These fittings are most common in angles such as standard elbow degrees, and they’re particularly effective in installations where space is restricted or multiple transitions are needed. They limit the number of individual components, helping to lower failure points in the system.
Typical Fitting Locations
These fittings are widely installed across various drainage applications:
- In pump chambers, to join outlets to smaller distribution lines
- Throughout retrofit projects with updated or non-standardised pipework
- Across field drainage systems where flow rates and gradients must be kept steady
- Inside wastewater facilities where components need to be space-saving and multi-functional
Correctly applied, these fittings optimise flow, reduce energy loss from turbulence, and help meet regulatory standards for water management.
Why Size Precision Matters
Incorrectly sized joints can cause:
- Disturbances in hydraulic pressure
- Build-up of debris
- Accelerated joint degradation
Tapers and taper bends create an even flow path by evenly adjusting pipe size, improving flow performance and reducing long-term maintenance.
Why Choosing the Right Supplier Makes a Difference
Choosing a general merchant might offer convenience, but a specialist drainage supplier brings:
- Greater range of product sizes and angles
- Better material suitability
- Product advice from experience
- Components meeting required standards
A dedicated supplier will have fittings that are not only dimensionally correct but also proven in field conditions—ensuring long-term system integrity.
FAQs
Is a taper the same as a reducer?
No. Tapers offer a longer and gentler size change, which is more effective for systems needing steady flow. Reducers often reduce quickly, which may create turbulence.
Can taper bends be used underground?
Yes, as long as they’re compliant with underground use requirements and follow relevant local guidelines.
Are tapers compatible with clay and plastic pipes?
Tapers are usually material-specific, but adaptors can bridge the gap between clay, plastic, and other pipe materials.
Do taper bends reduce flow performance?
If properly integrated into the system, taper bends maintain consistent flow and can even improve it by reducing pressure drops.
What size taper should I choose?
Base your choice on pipe diameter and system flow requirements to select the correct taper size for the application.
Choose Smart, Fit Once
Whether you're handling minor repairs or planning an click here upgrade, fitting the correct more info tapers and taper bends is important for a low-maintenance and efficient drainage setup.
Knowles Drainage supplies a wide variety of precision-fit components tailored for both agricultural and commercial applications, backed by hands-on expertise and a commitment to fit-for-purpose supply.