When it comes to piping systems, you need to know about different types of fittings. Two of the most commonly used fittings are Concentric reducers and Eccentric Reducers. Both reducers are used to connect two pipes with different diameters, but they have distinct differences in terms of their construction and usage. In this blog post, we will discuss the difference between concentric and eccentric reducers so you can determine which suits your piping needs best.

What is Concentric Reducer?

A concentric reducer is a pipe fitting that joins two pipes of different diameters. It consists of three parts: two separate concentric rings and the outer, larger ring with an inner section that matches the diameter of the smaller pipe. The reducer allows smoother flow transitions from one pipe to another without any disturbance or turbulence in the fluid being transported.

What is Eccentric Reducer?

An eccentric reducer is a type of pipe fitting used in piping systems to reduce the outlet diameter and provide increasing flow. This fitting typically has one side larger than the other, hence its name. It can join two different-sized pipes together while maintaining an uninterrupted fluid or gas movement path. It also helps maintain consistent pressure throughout the system by evenly distributing it across all connected pipes.

Difference Between Concentric Reducer and Eccentric Reducer

Shape and Construction

Concentric reducers have a cone-shaped body that tapers uniformly from one end to the other. The centreline of the pipe is in alignment with the centreline of the reducer. In other words, the two ends of the reducer have the same centreline. This makes the concentric reducer ideal for applications with a need to maintain a consistent flow rate.

On the other hand, eccentric reducers have an edge offset from the pipe’s centreline. The offset edge creates an eccentricity that leads to a slightly uneven tapering. The unequal taper allows the eccentric reducer to function on applications that require a change in fluid flow direction or volume, where the fluid needs to flow unimpeded.

Flow Control

Concentric reducers help maintain a consistent flow rate by maintaining a uniform pressure level across the pipe. This feature allows the concentric reducer fitting to be useful in applications like water treatment plants, sewage treatment facilities, etc.

Eccentric reducers offer the option of controlling the flow rate of a fluid. They can allow the fluid to flow straight through the pipe without impeding the flow rate. Eccentric reducers are commonly used in drainage systems where there is a need for water drainage to flow unimpeded.

Application

Concentric reducers are used in piping systems where there is a need for maintaining a consistent flow rate, but pressure levels only matter a little. They work best in installations where the fluid flow requires an equal reduction in the diameter of the pipes.

Eccentric reducers are best suited for applications where the fluid flow needs a decrease in volume and change of direction. They are commonly used in gas, pneumatic, and drain lines for condensation removal.

Cost

Concentric reducers are less expensive than their eccentric counterparts due to their simpler construction design. Due to their more complex design, eccentric reducers are generally more expensive than concentric reducers.

Installation

Concentric reducers are relatively straightforward to install. You only need to ensure that the diameters on either end of the reducer align with the sizes of the pipes that they are connected to.

On the other hand, Eccentric reducers require careful installation to ensure that the offset area aligns correctly with the piping system. Misalignment can have negative consequences, such as impeded flow and leakages.

Conclusion:

In summary, while concentric and eccentric reducers serve the same purpose, they achieve it differently. Concentric reducers maintain consistent flow rates, while eccentric reducers offer better control of fluid flow and allow for changes in direction. Depending on the piping system and the fluid being conveyed, selecting the appropriate reducer that suits your needs can be useful. Understanding the difference between the concentric reducer and eccentric reducer is crucial in making the right choice in selecting the reducer that will best serve your piping system’s purpose.

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