A galvanized union joins two GI pipes with a joint that can be opened without turning either pipe. It is the fitting that makes maintenance possible.
Fit one beside pumps, meters and valves. As a result, you can take them out for service in minutes rather than cutting the line.
What is a galvanized union?
A galvanized union is a three-part threaded fitting that joins two GI pipes and can be undone without turning either pipe. It has two threaded ends and a large nut that pulls them together.
Because the nut does the clamping, a union lets you remove a pump, valve or meter for service. Therefore, plumbers fit one next to any item that may need to come out later.
Further reading
- How hot-dip galvanization protects steel (Wikipedia)
- British Standard Pipe (BSP) thread explained (Wikipedia)
- Types of piping and plumbing fittings (Wikipedia)
Key terms explained
- Galvanized iron (GI)
- Iron or steel coated with a layer of zinc. The zinc corrodes first, so it protects the metal underneath from rust.
- BSP thread
- British Standard Pipe thread, the common pipe thread in Kenya. Tapered BSP threads (BSPT, ISO 7-1) tighten into a seal as you screw them together.
- Nominal size
- The trade size of a pipe or fitting, such as 1/2 inch. It names the pipe size, so it is not an exact measurement of the outside diameter.
- Thread sealant
- PTFE tape, hemp with jointing paste, or an anaerobic sealant applied to male threads. It fills tiny gaps so the joint does not leak.
- Union nut
- The large hexagon nut that draws the two halves of a union together.
- Seat
- The matched faces inside the union that seal against each other, either metal to metal or with a washer.
Features and benefits
- Joint opens without turning the pipes.
- Female BSP threads on both halves.
- Galvanized finish that slows rust.
- Large hex nut for a firm pull-up.
- Reusable for repeated maintenance.
Technical specifications
| Product | Galvanized union |
|---|---|
| Material | Galvanized (zinc-coated) iron |
| Ends | Female BSP thread, both halves |
| Parts | Two ends and a union nut |
| Sizes | State your pipe size when you request a quote |
| Supplier | Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi |
Seat type and pressure rating depend on the maker. Tell us the size and quantity, and we will confirm current stock.
Applications of a galvanized union
- Pump connections. Lets you lift a pump out without cutting pipework.
- Water meter installs. Allows the meter to be removed for testing or replacement.
- Valve servicing. Lets a valve be taken out for repair.
- Water heater connections. Makes heater replacement quick.
- Closing a pipe run. Makes the final joint in a fixed run where a socket cannot be screwed.
- Filter and strainer housings. Allows filters to be removed for cleaning.
- Booster pump sets. Simplifies removing pumps from compact sets.
- Pipe repairs. Rejoins a line after a section has been cut out.
How to choose and install
- Match the union to the pipe size.
- Fit one union on each side of a pump or meter.
- Seal the pipe threads, but keep sealant off the union seat.
- Tighten the nut firmly by hand tool, without forcing it.
Why choose Sparks Plumbing Experts
- Every common pipe materialGI, PPR, PVC, HDPE, brass and stainless fittings are all stocked, so you can match any existing system.
- Common sizes in stockMost fitting types come in several sizes, from small domestic sizes up to larger mains sizes.
- Pipes, fittings and valves togetherPipes, fittings, valves, clamps and jointing products come in one order.
- Help with thread and size standardsWe help you confirm inch and millimetre sizes before you buy, which avoids return trips.
- Visit or collect in NairobiOur store is at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, in the Industrial Area, so you can see parts before you buy or collect your order.
- Quotes your wayAsk for prices by phone, WhatsApp, email or the online quote form, whichever suits you on site.
- Over 1,600 products in one placeOur catalogue covers 55 categories, so one supplier can handle most of your parts list.
- Help choosing the right partSend a nameplate photo, a drawing or the old part, and we help you match size and specification.
- Single items or project quantitiesWe price a single replacement part just as readily as a full site order.
- Supply across East AfricaWe serve customers across Kenya. We also supply buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Related products and accessories
Browse more: GI Pipes & Fittings · Valves · Industrial Pumps · Tapes.
Ordering from Sparks Plumbing Experts
We supply customers across Kenya. We also serve buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan. You can collect from our store at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, Nairobi, or ask us about delivery to your site. Send your quantities and specifications, and we will reply with prices and availability.
Request a Quote WhatsApp 0726 086 895
Frequently asked questions
What sizes of galvanized union can I order?
Unions follow standard GI pipe sizes. Tell us the size and we will confirm availability.
Why does a pump need a galvanized union?
It lets you remove the pump for repair without cutting or unscrewing long pipe runs.
Galvanized union or flange: which is better?
Unions suit small threaded lines. Flanges suit larger pipes and higher loads.
Can I order galvanized unions in bulk?
Yes. Include the quantity and sizes in your quote request.
What details do you need to quote galvanized unions?
Tell us the size, the quantity and what the item will connect to. A photo of the old part or a drawing also helps. Then call or WhatsApp 0726 086 895, or use the quote form on this page.
Do you deliver galvanized unions outside Nairobi?
Yes. We supply customers across Kenya. We also serve buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan. Delivery or courier arrangements are agreed when you confirm the order.
How much does a galvanized union cost in Kenya?
The price depends on the size, the quantity and current steel prices. Therefore, send your list with a quote request and we will reply with current figures.
Should I use PTFE tape or paste on galvanized unions?
Either works when applied correctly. Wrap PTFE tape clockwise on the male thread, or use hemp with jointing paste on larger sizes. Do not over-tighten, because that can crack the fitting.
Can galvanized unions connect to copper pipe?
Avoid a direct joint between galvanized steel and copper, because the zinc then corrodes quickly. Instead, use a brass adaptor or, better, a dielectric union as the transition.
Where should I fit a galvanized union?
Fit one next to any pump, meter, valve or heater that may need removal.
Do I put PTFE tape on the union nut?
No. Seal only the pipe threads. The union seat seals by clamping.
Can a galvanized union be reused?
Yes, if the seat is clean and undamaged. Replace it if it leaks after retightening.
Where can I buy galvanized union in Kenya?
Buy it from Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, Industrial Area, Nairobi. We are open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, and Saturday, 9 am to 12 noon. You can also order by phone or WhatsApp on 0726 086 895. We deliver across Kenya and to Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
People also search for
union vs socket
A union opens without turning the pipes. A socket makes a permanent straight joint.
dielectric union
A dielectric union has an insulating washer that stops corrosion between steel and copper.
how to stop a union leaking
Clean the seat, check for damage, then retighten. Replace the washer if the union uses one.
GI vs PPR pipe and fittings
GI is stronger and handles knocks and sunlight. PPR does not rust and suits hot and cold water inside buildings.
GI fittings price in Kenya
Prices change with size, quantity and steel costs. Request a quote from Sparks Plumbing Experts for current figures.
how to fix a leaking GI thread
Shut the water, undo the joint, clean the threads, re-seal with PTFE tape or hemp and paste, then tighten firmly.
BSP vs NPT thread
BSP is the British thread used in Kenya. NPT is the American thread with a different angle, so the two do not seal together reliably.
galvanized vs black iron fittings
Black iron has no zinc coating and suits gas and closed heating loops. Galvanized suits water lines, because the zinc slows rust.
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