A Closer Look at Tapers and Taper Bends in Drainage: Usage, Fitting Accuracy, and Supply
Tapers are form-fitted elements used to unite pipes of different sizes in drainage networks. Their role is to enable a streamlined size reduction, which helps avoid 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 room is limited or multiple transitions are needed. They cut down on 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 compliance benchmarks for water management.
Importance of Correct Fitting Size
Incorrectly sized joints can cause:
- Disturbances in hydraulic pressure
- Blockages from sedimentation
- Accelerated joint degradation
Tapers and taper bends smooth these transitions out by offering a controlled reduction, 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
- Products designed for field application
- Industry-specific expertise
- Proven quality assurance
A dedicated supplier will have fittings that are not only dimensionally correct but also engineered for actual site demands—ensuring long-term system integrity.
FAQs
Is a taper the same as a reducer?
No. Tapers offer a longer and more gradual size change, which is more effective for systems needing steady flow. Reducers often transition over a short length, 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 manufactured for one pipe type, but adaptors can allow connection between clay, plastic, and other pipe materials.
Do taper bends reduce flow performance?
If correctly selected and installed, taper bends maintain consistent flow and can even improve it by avoiding abrupt transitions.
What size taper should I choose?
Measure both ends and factor in hydraulic design to select the correct taper size for the application.
Choose Smart, Fit Once
Whether you're replacing a Taper bends few here components or building a new network, fitting the website correct tapers and taper bends is central to a low-maintenance and durable drainage setup.
Knowles Drainage supplies a wide variety of precision-fit components tailored for both farm-based and urban infrastructure applications, backed by hands-on expertise and a commitment to fit-for-purpose supply.