The GI elbow 1 1/2 inch turns a 1 1/2 inch galvanized pipe run through 90 degrees. This size suits water mains in schools, hotels and factories, and medium borehole pump delivery lines.
Both ends carry female BSP threads, so 1 1/2 inch GI pipe or nipples screw straight in. In addition, the zinc coating slows rust, which keeps the joint serviceable for years in normal water conditions.
What is a GI elbow 1 1/2 inch?
A GI elbow is a threaded galvanized iron fitting that turns a pipe run through an angle, most often 90 degrees. It has female BSP threads at both ends, so a GI pipe or nipple screws into each side.
Galvanizing coats the iron with zinc. As a result, the elbow resists rust in water lines far better than bare iron. Elbows let plumbers route pipes around walls, beams and equipment without bending the pipe itself.
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.
- 90 degree elbow
- An elbow that turns the flow through a right angle. A 45 degree elbow makes a gentler change of direction.
Features and benefits
- Hot-dip galvanized finish that slows rust inside and out.
- Female BSP taper threads at both ends for screwed joints.
- Turns the pipe run through 90 degrees without bending or welding.
- Strong iron body that tolerates knocks on building sites.
- Sizes from 1/2 to 4 inch to match standard GI pipe.
- Easy to unscrew and replace during repairs.
Technical specifications
| Product | GI Elbow 1 1/2 inch |
|---|---|
| Nominal size | 1 1/2" |
| Matching pipe OD | 48.3 mm |
| Angle | 90 degree |
| Material | Galvanized (zinc-coated) iron |
| Ends | Female BSP taper thread, both ends |
| Typical service | Cold and domestic hot water, low pressure utility lines |
| Supplier | Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi |
Wall thickness, pressure rating and exact dimensions depend on the maker and batch. Ask us for the details of current stock when you request a quote.
Applications of a GI elbow 1 1/2 inch
- Domestic water supply. Turns supply lines from the mains into kitchens, bathrooms and laundry areas.
- Rising mains. Changes direction where a vertical riser meets a horizontal floor pipe in multi-storey buildings.
- Rooftop tank connections. Routes the outlet pipe from an elevated water tank down into the building.
- Borehole delivery lines. Turns the delivery pipe at the wellhead toward the storage tank.
- Booster pump sets. Connects pump suction and delivery pipework in a compact layout.
- Fire hose reel feeds. Routes threaded fire water branch lines around corners to each hose reel.
- Farm irrigation mains. Changes direction in above-ground irrigation mains on farms and greenhouses.
- Livestock water points. Brings water lines round sheds and walls to troughs and dip areas.
- Water heater connections. Links cold feed and outlet lines to hot water cylinders and boilers.
- Outdoor standpipes. Turns the pipe up from the ground to an outdoor tap or standpipe.
- Workshop utility lines. Routes low pressure water and utility branches along workshop walls.
- Pipe repairs. Replaces a corroded elbow in an existing GI line without changing the layout.
- Light frames and rails. Joins GI pipe into simple frames and rails where the load is light.
How to choose and install
- Match the elbow to the nominal size of your GI pipe, for example a 1 inch elbow for 1 inch pipe.
- Use two 45 degree elbows or a long bend where a gentle turn reduces pressure loss.
- Check that the threads are clean and undamaged before fitting.
- Apply PTFE tape or hemp and jointing paste to the male thread, not inside the elbow.
- Support the pipe close to the elbow, so the joint does not carry the weight of the line.
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, and we also supply buyers in Uganda and Tanzania.
Related products and accessories
Browse more: GI Pipes & Fittings · Valves · Tapes · Plumbing Accessories & Tools.
Ordering from Sparks Plumbing Experts
We supply customers across Kenya, and we also serve buyers in Uganda and Tanzania. 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
Which pipe fits a GI elbow 1 1/2 inch?
It fits 1 1/2 inch GI pipe with a male BSP thread. Standard 1 1/2 inch steel pipe has an outside diameter of about 48.3 mm.
Is the GI elbow 1 1/2 inch a 90 degree elbow?
Yes, this page is for the standard 90 degree elbow. Ask us if you need a 45 degree or reducing elbow in 1 1/2 inch.
How many GI elbow 1 1/2 inch fittings do I need?
Count each right-angle turn on your layout drawing. Then add one or two spares, because threads can get damaged on site.
Can I order GI elbow 1 1/2 inch fittings in bulk?
Yes. We supply single pieces and bulk quantities for contractors. Include the quantity in your quote request.
What details do you need to quote GI elbows?
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 GI elbows outside Nairobi?
Yes. We supply customers across Kenya, and we also serve buyers in Uganda and Tanzania. Delivery or courier arrangements are agreed when you confirm the order.
How much does a GI elbow 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 GI elbows?
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 GI elbows 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.
Are GI elbows suitable for hot water?
Yes, for normal domestic hot water. However, zinc corrodes faster above about 60 degrees Celsius, so hot lines may need replacing sooner.
Can GI elbows carry drinking water?
Galvanized fittings have long been used in cold water lines. However, many new drinking water systems now use PPR or HDPE, so follow your project specification.
How long do GI elbows last?
Service life depends on water quality and installation. Hard or acidic water shortens it, so inspect exposed joints and replace rusted elbows early.
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