Product Description
Cold Expansion PEX-A Drop Ear 90° Elbow for Potable Water and Hydronic Systems (ASTM F1960)
This Boshart Stainless Steel Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Drop Ear 90° Elbow connects PEX tubing to threaded pipe at a 90-degree angle, providing a secure mounting point for fixtures. It is designed for ASTM F1960 cold expansion PEX systems, and the cold expansion PEX end conforms to ASTM F1960. This fitting is ideal for professionals like plumbers, contractors, and serious DIYers working with potable water systems, shower arms, tub spouts, and hydronic heating.
The drop ear elbow provides a stable, secure attachment to surfaces such as studs or plywood. Compatible with PEX-A cold expansion systems. Not compatible with crimp/clamp connection methods. Its 304 stainless steel construction offers superior corrosion resistance compared to brass, making it a reliable choice for long-term performance.
Quick Specs
Connection Type: Cold Expansion PEX x FPT (Female Pipe Thread)
Compatible Tubing: PEX-A (Cold Expansion / ASTM F1960 systems)
Material: 304 Stainless Steel
Working Pressure Rating: 100 PSI
Temperature Rating: Up to 180°F (82°C)
Certification: cUPC (ASTM F1960 & CSA B137.5), NSF/ANSI 61 & NSF/ANSI 372 (lead-free stainless steel)
Available In
1/2"
3/4"
3/4" x 1/2"
Key Features of Boshart Stainless Steel Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Drop Ear 90° Elbow
It is made from 304-grade stainless steel for exceptional resistance to corrosion.
304 stainless steel offers higher strength and superior corrosion resistance compared to standard brass fittings.
Its drop ear design allows for secure and stable mounting to studs or other surfaces.
A large internal diameter provides maximum flow through the fitting.
There is an integral stop tab on the fitting to help ensure proper tubing insertion.
It is certified for safe use in potable water systems, meeting NSF/ANSI 61 and 372 standards.
The fitting is ideal for diverse applications, including hydronic heating systems that use anti-freeze solutions.
Boshart Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Drop Ear 90° Elbow Specifications
Specification
Detail
Fitting Type
Drop Ear 90° Elbow
Connection Type
Cold Expansion PEX x FPT
Primary Material
304 Stainless Steel
Temperature Range
Up to 180°F (82°C)
Maximum Pressure Rating
100 PSI
Certifications
cUPC (ASTM F1960 & CSA B137.5), NSF/ANSI 61 & NSF/ANSI 372
Dimensions
1/2" x 1/2"
L: 1.398 in (35.50 mm)
H: 0.709 in (18.00 mm)
W: 1.890 in (48.00 mm)
D: 0.709 in (18.00 mm)
3/4" x 3/4"
L: 1.791 in (45.50 mm)
H: 0.886 in (22.50 mm)
W: 1.890 in (48.00 mm)
D: 0.709 in (18.00 mm)
3/4" x 1/2"
L: 1.693 in (43.00 mm)
H: 0.886 in (22.50 mm)
W: 1.890 in (48.00 mm)
D: 0.709 in (18.00 mm)
Installation Method
Securely fasten the drop ear elbow to a stud, plywood, or other backing material using screws through the mounting ears.
Slide the expansion collar over the PEX-A tubing.
Use a PEX expansion tool to expand the tubing and collar, either a power expansion tool for larger jobs or a manual hand expansion tool for smaller installations.
Immediately insert the fitting fully into the integral stop tab.
Hold briefly to allow the tubing and collar to shrink, forming a positive, leak-free seal.
Applications & System Integration
Shower arm installations
Tub spout connections
Secure mounting points for water jets
Residential potable water systems
Commercial plumbing applications
Hydronic heating systems
Maple syrup production lines
Compliance & Certification
This 304 stainless steel drop ear 90° PEX elbow meets cUPC, NSF/ANSI 61, and NSF/ANSI 372 standards. It is NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 372 certified. Stainless steel alloys used in this fitting contain 0.00% lead. These certifications confirm its compliance with industry regulations for safety and performance.
Get the Boshart Cold Expansion PEX x FPT Drop Ear 90° Elbow from Cleanflow
This corrosion-resistant drop ear PEX elbow for shower arm installation must be installed using the ASTM F1960 cold expansion method specified above. Proper tool selection and installation ensure leak-free performance and long-term system reliability. This fitting’s corrosion resistance and durable construction make it a reliable choice for cold expansion PEX-A plumbing systems.
Cleanflow supplies certified PEX Fittings across Canada and the USA, including premium Boshart cold expansion PEX fittings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a drop ear fitting used for in PEX plumbing?
A drop ear fitting creates a secure, fixed transition point from PEX tubing to a threaded connection such as a shower arm or tub spout. The mounting ears allow the fitting to be fastened to a stud or backing surface, preventing movement during fixture installation.
What are the best practices for installing a drop ear PEX elbow?
Secure the fitting level and square to solid backing before connecting the tubing. Use properly sized screws through the mounting ears. After completing the cold expansion connection, perform a pressure test before covering the plumbing to confirm a leak-free installation.
What tools are required for securing a drop ear PEX elbow to a stud?
You will need a drill or screwdriver to fasten screws through the mounting ears into the stud or backing material. For the plumbing connection, a PEX expansion tool compatible with ASTM F1960 systems is required.
Can this stainless steel PEX elbow be used in hydronic heating systems?
Yes. The 304 stainless steel construction offers strong chemical compatibility and corrosion resistance, making it suitable for hydronic systems that use glycol-based antifreeze solutions. It is rated for temperatures up to 180°F (82°C) within ASTM F1960 PEX system specifications.
Is this fitting compatible with all types of PEX tubing?
No. This fitting is designed specifically for ASTM F1960 cold expansion systems using PEX-A tubing. It is not compatible with ASTM F1807 crimp or clamp systems used with PEX-B or PEX-C tubing.
Why choose 304 stainless steel over brass for PEX fittings?
304 stainless steel provides superior corrosion resistance compared to brass, especially in aggressive or high-acidity water conditions. It also offers higher strength and long-term durability, making it a reliable option for demanding plumbing environments.
What does FPT mean in a PEX x FPT elbow?
FPT stands for Female Pipe Thread. This means one end of the elbow has internal threads designed to connect to a male-threaded pipe or fixture, while the other end connects to PEX-A tubing using the ASTM F1960 cold expansion method.
