Redoing my loop and have questions

[PopcornMachine]

I'm currently using an XPSC Rasa kit with 1/2" fittings and 7/16" tubing. Makes for a nice tight leak-proof connection, but is a pain to make changes on. Basically have to cut the ends off the tube.

So I'd like to try compression fittings and smaller tubing. 3/8" or 1/4" tubing. And I have some questions.

1. What are the pros/cons of 1/4" tubing?
2. What are the pros/cons of compression fittings?
3. What are generally the best compression fittings? Bitspower?

Thanks.

 

[d3fct]

never used anything smaller id than 3/8 myself, i would think the smaller diameter id might produce more speed/pressure, but might also hinder the rate of displacement, dunno, still just a thought.

compression fittings are nice clean look, but on some blocks they are so wide you cannot use them, like for instance i had a ek nb block, that only barbs fit.

bitspower makes good shit, aslong as it's not a rotating piece it should be nice and snug.

sidenote: if you go compression you really don't need a smaller tube for tight fit, that's were the "compression" comes into play.

good luck on your endevour!

 

[PopcornMachine]

Thanks for the info. I should have mentioned moving to smaller tubing for other reasons. Mostly aesthetic.

 

[d3fct]

right just my 2 cents, another thought the smaller id might be harder to bend without kinking. gl, and have fun, redoing loops or swapping cases is always good fun.

 

[Bjorn_Of_Iceland]

Yep, 7/16 id 5/8 od is easier to bend on tighter curves. I used to run 1/2id 5/8od, they bend good but sometimes the corner gets a bit 'fat' when bent, and is not that good looking. It doesnt kink, but it somewhat loses its form. The flowrate of 1/4 is obviously better vs 7/16 but is not that large.

I have some Bitspower comp fittings and they have good grip in the fingers. I have a Fesser compression fitting as well.. the grip is not that good and is very hard to remove after as well. Finger grip is very important in compression fittings, because it is the only way to install / remove those things.. with your fingers. Id take bitspower over the fesser anytime.

Cons of a compression fitting is that when you over tighten those things.. youd get the same difficulty in removing the tube. I overtightened some compression fittings before, and i had to literally burn the tube just to remove it lol. Its hard to unscrew those things... its like opening a bottled soda.. with the only grip you have is the cap, and a few the mm below.. not much surface to grip on to

 

[PopcornMachine]

Thanks Bjorn. Sounds like compression joints won't make things that much easier after all.