Product Description
Cold Expansion / F1960-Compatible PEX x FPT Adapter for Potable Water and Hydronic Systems
Product Overview
The Stainless Steel Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Adapter connects PEX-A cold expansion tubing to male NPT threaded connections in water distribution systems. Manufactured from 304 stainless steel, this fitting offers superior durability for residential and commercial plumbing applications, specifically in areas with aggressive water quality or high acidity.
Designed for professional installers, these cold expansion PEX fittings rely on the memory properties of PEX-A tubing to create a permanent, leak-free seal. The large internal diameter helps reduce flow restriction compared to many insert-style crimp fittings.
Quick Specs
Connection Type: Cold Expansion (ASTM F1960) x FPT (Female Pipe Thread)
Compatible Tubing: PEX-A (ASTM F876/F3253), PE-RT (ASTM F2769)
Material: 304 Stainless Steel (Corrosion-Resistant)
Pressure Rating: 100 PSI (Working Pressure), 200 PSI (Maximum Pressure)
Temperature Rating: System limited by tubing (typically 180°F / 82°C)
Certification: ASTM F1960, NSF/ANSI 61, NSF/ANSI 372 (No Lead), cUPC, CSA B137.5
Available In
1/2" PEX x 1/2" FPT
1/2" PEX x 3/4" FPT
3/4" PEX x 3/4" FPT
3/4" PEX x 1/2" FPT
3/4" PEX x 1" FPT
Key Features of Boshart Stainless Steel Adapters
304 stainless steel construction provides exceptional corrosion resistance, outlasting brass in aggressive water conditions.
Cold expansion technology creates a positive seal that strengthens over time as the PEX tubing contracts around the fitting.
Large internal diameter helps reduce flow restriction compared to many crimp-style fittings.
Dezincification resistant material eliminates the risk of zinc leaching, ensuring structural integrity in all water types.
Certified for potable water applications, meeting all low-lead requirements for safe drinking water systems.
Versatile compatibility with standard ASTM F1960 PEX systems and SDR9 PEX tubing.
Stainless Steel Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Adapter Specifications
Specification
Value
Material
304 Stainless Steel
Connection 1
Cold Expansion PEX (ASTM F1960)
Connection 2
Female Pipe Thread (FPT)
Working Pressure
100 PSI
Maximum Pressure
200 PSI
System Temp. Range
Up to 180°F (82°C)
Material Temp. Range
Up to 400°F (204°C)
Certifications
ASTM F1960, NSF/ANSI 61, NSF/ANSI 372, cUPC, CSA B137.5
Dimensions
Size
Width (in)
Height (in)
Length (in)
Weight (lb)
1/2"
0.95
1.35
0.95
0.05
1/2" x 3/4"
1.10
1.40
1.25
0.07
3/4"
1.20
1.65
1.10
0.09
3/4" x 1/2"
1.00
1.55
0.95
0.10
1"
1.40
2.00
1.60
0.19
Installation Method
Required Tools:
PEX Expansion Tool (Power or Manual Hand Tool)
PEX Expansion Rings/Collars (PEX-A compatible)
Installation Steps:
Slide the expansion ring over the PEX-A tubing.
Use the expansion tool to expand the tubing and ring simultaneously.
Insert the stainless steel cold expansion PEX x FPT adapter into the expanded tube immediately.
Hold the fitting in place until the tubing shrinks tightly around the barbs.
Verify the ring is seated flush against the fitting shoulder.
Seal the FPT threaded connection using PTFE tape and/or approved pipe joint compound before threading onto the male NPT fitting.
Note: Do not use crimp or clamp rings. This fitting relies on the memory of the tubing to create the seal.
Applications & System Integration
Potable Water Systems: ASTM F1960 certified PEX fittings for hot and cold water distribution.
Aggressive Water Environments: Areas with high acidity or mineral content where brass may fail.
Hydronic Heating: Radiant floor heating systems require secure connections suitable for continuous circulation.
Residential Plumbing: New construction and repiping using PEX-A.
Commercial Plumbing: High-durability installations requiring 304 stainless steel pipe fittings.
Compliance & Certification
These fittings meet strict industry standards for safety and performance. They are cUPC listed and certified to ASTM F1960, NSF/ANSI 61, and NSF/ANSI 372 (Lead-Free). They also comply with CSA B137.5 requirements. The 304 stainless steel material ensures compliance with lead-free plumbing laws across North America.
Get the Stainless Steel Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Adapter from Cleanflow
This adapter must be installed using the correct expansion method to ensure a secure connection. Proper tool selection and compatibility with PEX-A tubing guarantee leak-free PEX adapter performance and long-term reliability.
Available through Cleanflow, these components are essential when you need to buy corrosion-resistant PEX fittings for commercial plumbing or residential projects. We supply a wide range of Boshart products and other PEX Fittings trusted by contractors and facility operators.
Frequently Asked Questions
What tools are required for cold expansion (ASTM F1960) installation?
You must use a cold expansion tool designed for ASTM F1960 systems, either battery-operated or manual. PEX expansion rings are also required. Standard crimp or clamp tools cannot be used with these fittings.
How do I troubleshoot leaks with stainless steel PEX FPT connections?
Leaks at the PEX connection may occur if the tubing was not expanded evenly, the ring shifted during installation, or the pipe was damaged. Leaks at the threaded FPT connection typically result from insufficient thread sealant or cross-threading. Ensure the pipe is cut squarely, the fitting is fully inserted, and appropriate thread sealant is applied.
What are common sizes for PEX to FPT adapters?
Common configurations include 1/2 inch PEX x 1/2 inch FPT and 3/4 inch PEX x 3/4 inch FPT. Reducing sizes such as 1/2 inch PEX x 3/4 inch FPT are also available for specific transition requirements.
Can I use these fittings with PEX-B pipe?
Generally no. Most PEX-B pipe is not compatible with the cold expansion (ASTM F1960) method because it lacks the thermal memory required to shrink tightly around the fitting. These fittings are designed for use with PEX-A tubing.
Why use stainless steel instead of brass?
Stainless steel PEX fittings are immune to dezincification and provide higher corrosion resistance compared to brass. This makes them a more durable choice for aggressive water conditions and long-term underground or high-demand applications.
