The Basic Principle of Compression Sealing

Compression sealing works by compressing a soft sealing element, such as a rubber or elastomeric ring, between two hard surfaces - typically the pipe and the fitting body. When the compression nut is tightened, it pushes the sealing ring (often called a ferrule or gasket) against the pipe's outer wall and the fitting's inner chamber. The elastic deformation of the ring fills any microscopic gaps or surface irregularities, preventing fluid from escaping. This principle allows compression fittings to provide reliable sealing even in systems with moderate vibration or thermal expansion.