All “quick-connect” fittings are alike, right? Not necessarily!
While both A-type and B-type fittings are used to join together two pieces of pipe or hose, there are noticeable differences between these two types of fittings. At Wolf Creek, we sell both A-type (Anfor) and B-type fittings in larger, 10 to 12-inch diameter sizes. We also offer true Genuine Bauer fittings in sizes 8-inches and less. Bauer is the original ‘B-type,’ and there’s simply no substitute for the premium brand-name quality and reliability!
So, do you know what types of fittings you have on hand? Test your knowledge with these questions:
How Are the Levers Attached?
- Welded directly to the socket (female) end of the connector.
- Welded onto a floating ring that slips over the ball (male) end of the fitting.
If you answered #1, you have an A-type fitting! If you picked #2, you have a B-type, or “Bauer-style” fitting. But is it really a Bauer brand-name fitting, or not? Keep asking these questions to find out!
Does the Lever Have a Square “Bull” Nose?
Genuine Bauer fittings have a distinctive squared nose, which keeps the lever locked in the closed position. On the other hand, generic B-type fittings use rivets and a locking pin. Over time, these rivet holes can become loose and result in unreliable connections. Meanwhile, Bauer fittings can be used over and over again without becoming “sloppy” and loosening.
Are the Straps Welded Onto the Ring, or Not?
GenuineBauer fittings are so reliable due to the quality put into every detail of their function. Unlike Bauer-style connectors, real Bauer fittings have welded-on straps that hold the lever arms to the ring. The straps do not stretch or wear out, providing a leak-proof connection time after time.
Is the Handle Stamped with “Bauer”?
This last one is pretty straightforward. If your fitting doesn’t have “BAUER” stamped clearly on the handle, you’re dealing with a non-brand name Bauer-style fitting!
Choose Your Fittings Wisely!
Every project is different, and requires different equipment and fittings. Don’t worry — Wolf Creek has a variety of pipe and hose fittings to choose from!
When you need larger diameter fittings to move large volumes of water, we have 10-inch and 12-inch fittings in both A-type and B-type options. For jobs requiring smaller fittings of 8 inches or less, we highly recommend Genuine Bauer, the industry’s best fitting.
Not sure what you have on hand, or think you have incompatible fittings? We can help with that! Our adapter fittings allow you to connect different fittings — such as A-type to B-type — in those tricky installations. Whether you need a cam-loc, a Victaulic, or an A-type-to-B-type adapter, we have the fitting you need and we can get it to you quickly.
P.S. If you have many fittings, and even multiple types of pipe or hose couplers on one jobsite, our Warhammer multi-closing tool is a must. The Warhammer can be used to open and close both A-type and B-type fittings, making it faster, safer, and easier for your team to connect and disconnect quick-couplers — even in the dark. Our customers appreciate the Warhammer’s ability to help prevent the risk of back, shoulder, finger, and hand injuries on their job sites.
Ready to Get Started?
No matter the fitting type or application, we’re always happy to help you find the right solutions to make your life easier. Contact us today to learn more about our range of pipe and hose fittings for portable piping projects. We look forward to speaking with you!