Olive
In plumbing
The brass or copper ring inside a compression fitting. As the nut is tightened, it is squeezed onto the pipe and into the seat of the fitting, which makes the seal. A used olive grips the pipe it was tightened on, so remaking a joint on a fresh length of pipe calls for a new one.
Using Olive in a plumbing system
Updated
A distinction worth remembering
A leak-free connection can still be strained by unsupported pipework, movement or expansion. Revision should connect joint type, material, access and support to the service conditions. Installation details belong to the relevant system manufacturer's instructions and supervised training.
Questions to take further
- Does a joint that looks dry immediately prove the work is finished?
- No. Appropriate testing, inspection and checking the system under its intended conditions are part of the work. Access for maintenance and suitable support matter too.
Sources
- Skills England: plumbing and domestic heating technician — The systems, materials, planning and customer responsibilities in the England occupational standard.
Where Olive fits in the learning path
The Pipework & Jointing section covers these topics:
- Pipe Materials
- Pipe Joints and Fixings
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- Pipe Joints and FixingsPipework & Jointing
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A joint on water pipework made by tightening a nut over a ring called an olive, which squeezes onto the pipe and seals it. It needs no heat, which makes it useful where soldering would bring a fire risk, and it can be taken apart later. Too little tightening leaves it weeping, and too much can distort the olive.
Compression fitting
Read the Compression fitting entryCompare related terms
Open a meaning to compare its role with Olive, or follow its full entry.
Compression fitting
A joint on water pipework made by tightening a nut over a ring called an olive, which squeezes onto the pipe and seals it. It needs no heat, which makes it useful where soldering would bring a fire risk, and it can be taken apart later. Too little tightening leaves it weeping, and too much can distort the olive.
Read the Compression fitting entryBefore you start: some plumbing work is regulated or notifiable
Some water fittings work needs notice to, and consent from, the water supplier before it starts. Check the rules where you live.
Gas work is for competent workers covered by a Gas Safe registered business in Great Britain. Northern Ireland has separate gas regulations. Do not work on gas pipes or appliances yourself.
In England, installing an unvented hot-water system over 15 litres is notifiable building work: use a competent installer registered with a competent-person scheme, or tell building control before work starts. Leave this work to a suitably skilled person.
Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland have their own water and building rules; check which apply before work starts. Electrical connections belong with an electrician.
This guide does not qualify you or make you competent, approved or registered for plumbing, gas or unvented work.
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