The GI socket 1 1/2 inch joins two lengths of 1 1/2 inch galvanized pipe in a straight line. This size suits water mains in schools, hotels and factories, and medium borehole pump delivery lines.
It is a short sleeve with a female BSP thread at each end. Therefore, it extends a line or rejoins it after a repair. In addition, the zinc coating protects it from rust in normal water service.
What is a GI socket 1 1/2 inch?
A GI socket is a short galvanized iron sleeve with a female BSP thread at each end. It joins two male-threaded pipes of the same size in a straight line.
Plumbers also call it a coupling. Because it is fully threaded, a socket gives a strong permanent joint. However, it cannot be undone without turning the pipe, so a union is used where a line must come apart 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.
- Socket (coupling)
- A straight fitting with two female threads that joins two pipes end to end.
- Union
- A three-part fitting that lets a pipe joint be undone without turning the pipes.
Features and benefits
- Female BSP threads at both ends for screwed joints.
- Short, compact body for neat straight runs.
- Zinc coating that slows rust in water service.
- Fits with pipe wrenches and sealant, with no welding.
- Sizes to match standard GI pipe.
Technical specifications
| Product | GI Socket 1 1/2 inch |
|---|---|
| Nominal size | 1 1/2" |
| Matching pipe OD | 48.3 mm |
| Type | Straight socket (full coupling) |
| Material | Galvanized (zinc-coated) iron |
| Ends | Female BSP thread, both ends |
| Supplier | Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi |
Length and pressure rating depend on the maker and batch. Ask us for details of current stock, or for a reducing socket if your pipes differ in size.
Applications of a GI socket 1 1/2 inch
- Joining pipe lengths. Connects standard GI pipe lengths in long water supply runs.
- Extending existing lines. Adds new pipe to the end of an existing GI line.
- Borehole riser columns. Joins threaded pipe sections in borehole drop and riser columns.
- Rising mains. Joins pipe lengths in vertical risers in multi-storey buildings.
- Irrigation mains. Joins above-ground GI irrigation pipes on farms.
- Fire service lines. Joins threaded GI pipe in hose reel and hydrant feeds.
- Pipe repairs. Rejoins a line after a damaged section has been cut out, together with a union.
- Tank outlets. Connects outlet pipework below storage tanks.
- Pump stations. Joins straight pipe sections on pump suction and delivery lines.
- Fencing and frames. Joins GI pipe lengths in fence rails, gates and light frames.
How to choose and install
- Match the socket to the nominal size of both pipes.
- Use a reducing socket when the two pipes differ in size.
- Use a union instead where the joint must come apart for maintenance.
- Clean threads and seal them with PTFE tape or hemp and paste.
- Tighten firmly, but stop before the socket starts to deform.
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 socket 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.
Can a GI socket 1 1/2 inch join pipes of different sizes?
No, it joins two 1 1/2 inch pipes. For different sizes, use a reducing socket or a reducing bush.
Is a GI socket 1 1/2 inch the same as a coupling?
Yes. Socket, coupling and full coupling are common names for the same straight female-female fitting.
Can I order GI socket 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 sockets?
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 sockets 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 socket 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 sockets?
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 sockets 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 sockets suitable for hot water?
Yes, for normal domestic hot water. However, zinc corrodes faster above about 60 degrees Celsius, so hot lines may wear sooner.
Why can a socket not be used to close a loop?
Screwing a socket onto one pipe unscrews it from the other. Therefore, the last joint in a fixed run needs a union.
How long do GI sockets last?
Service life depends on water quality and installation. Inspect exposed joints and replace sockets that show heavy rust.
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