Aluminum Bushing

Henan Gnee New Material Co., Ltd. is one of the most reliable manufacturers and suppliers of aluminum bushing in China. With abundant experience, we warmly welcome you to wholesale high quality aluminum bushing in stock here from our factory. Good service and reasonable price are available.

 

GNEE supplies aluminum bushings for adapting a larger threaded connection to a smaller threaded connection. A bushing normally has external male threads on the outside and internal female threads on the inside, allowing a smaller threaded component to connect into a larger female threaded port.

Available types include hex bushings, reducing bushings, flush bushings and custom bushings. Aluminum alloys can be selected according to the required connection sizes, thread standard and service environment.

For applicable forged aluminum and aluminum-alloy threaded fittings, ASME B16.52 provides requirements for ratings, dimensions, tolerances, marking and materials. Where the bushing is produced as an aluminum forging, ASTM B247 can be specified for the forging material. For NPT threads, ASME B1.20.1 covers the thread dimensions and gauging requirements.

GNEE can supply standard and custom aluminum bushings according to alloy, thread combination, size and applicable specification.

Request a Quote for Aluminum Bushings

1. Aluminum Bushing Types

Aluminum bushings are selected mainly according to the thread arrangement, head design and installation method.

Bushing Type	Main Feature	Connection	Typical Application
Aluminum Hex Bushing	Hexagonal outside body for wrench installation	Male × Female Thread	Pipe and equipment connections
Aluminum Reducing Bushing	Converts a larger female thread to a smaller female thread	Male × Female	Size reduction at threaded ports
Aluminum Flush Bushing	Compact profile with minimal projection	Male × Female	Space-limited installations
Aluminum Custom Bushing	Special length, thread or profile	Per drawing	Equipment and project applications

Note: Product terminology varies between manufacturers. For quotation, the buyer should provide the actual male-thread size, female-thread size and thread standard rather than relying only on the name "bushing."

 

2. How an Aluminum Bushing Works

A typical reducing bushing has two different threads:

Outside: larger male thread

Inside: smaller female thread

For example, a 2" Male × 1" Female aluminum bushing has a 2" male thread that enters a larger female threaded port, while the 1" female thread accepts a smaller male threaded pipe or fitting.

This makes a bushing useful when the equipment connection is larger than the connected pipe or instrument.

 

3. Hex Aluminum Bushing

A hex bushing has a hexagonal external section between the two threaded portions. The hex provides a surface for a wrench during installation or removal.

Typical applications include:

Instrument connections

Valve connections

Equipment ports

Compressed-air manifolds

Small-bore piping

The hex dimensions and overall geometry should be specified according to the applicable fitting standard or customer drawing.

 

4. Reducing Aluminum Bushing

A reducing bushing connects two different threaded sizes.

Large Female Port	Smaller Connection	Example
2"	1"	2" × 1"
1"	1/2"	1" × 1/2"
3/4"	1/2"	3/4" × 1/2"

A reducing bushing can be a compact alternative to using several separate fittings when the connection is threaded.

For larger diameter changes in a piping run, an aluminum reducer is normally more appropriate than a bushing.

 

5. Aluminum Bushing Thread Types

Thread selection is one of the most important specifications when ordering an aluminum bushing.

Common thread systems include:

NPT

BSPT

BSPP

Metric threads

Other project-specific threads

NPT

NPT (National Pipe Taper) is widely used in North American piping systems. ASME B1.20.1 covers the thread form, dimensions, allowances and gauging for NPT and other general-purpose inch pipe threads.

BSPT

BSPT is a tapered pipe thread commonly encountered in international markets.

BSPP

BSPP is a parallel pipe thread and has a different sealing arrangement from tapered NPT or BSPT threads.

Metric Thread

Metric threads can be supplied when required by the application or drawing. The exact thread designation and pitch should be specified before production.

Important Thread Note

NPT, BSPT, BSPP and metric threads are different systems and are not interchangeable. Before production, the buyer should specify the thread standard, nominal size, thread direction and thread tolerance.

For export orders, specifying the exact thread standard is especially important because a nominal 1" connection does not automatically mean the same thread geometry in different systems.

 

 

6. Aluminum Bushing Dimensions

For forged threaded bushings, ASME B16.52-2024 Table 1.2.1-6 (Plugs and Bushings) provides reference dimensions. The table below shows the bushing-related dimensions from B16.52 Table 1.2.1-6, with reference overall length values from equivalent threaded fitting standards.

Threaded Bushing Reference Dimensions

NPS	DN	Nominal Hex Width F (mm)	Min. Hex Height G (mm)	Reference Overall Length (mm)
1/8	6	11.1	-	10
1/4	8	15.7	3.0	11
3/8	10	17.5	4.1	13
1/2	15	22.4	4.8	14
3/4	20	26.9	5.6	16
1	25	35.1	6.4	19
1-1/4	32	44.5	7.1	21
1-1/2	40	50.8	7.9	21
2	50	63.5	8.6	22
2-1/2	65	76.2	9.7	27
3	80	88.9	10.4	28
4	100	117.3	12.7	32

Notes:

F is the nominal width across hex flats for wrench installation.

G is the minimum hex height of the bushing. NPS 1/8 bushings do not have a hex section.

The overall length is a reference value from equivalent threaded fitting dimension tables. It should be confirmed against B16.52-2024 and the actual product drawing before production.

Dimensions for reducing bushings depend on the specific size combination. Please confirm with GNEE according to your required male × female thread sizes.

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Specifying Bushing Sizes

For threaded bushings, thread size is more important than nominal pipe diameter alone. A complete specification should include:

Male thread size

Female thread size

Thread standard (NPT, BSPT, BSPP or other)

Overall length

Hex size

Material and temper

Quantity

For example, "2" × 1" NPT Female × Male Aluminum Hex Bushing" is much clearer than simply requesting a "2 × 1 aluminum bushing."

For tube systems, provide the actual outside diameter, wall thickness and thread specification if applicable.

 

7. Bushing vs Reducer

Although both products can reduce connection size, they are not the same fitting.

Feature	Aluminum Bushing	Aluminum Reducer
Main Function	Adapt threaded sizes	Transition pipe sizes
Typical Connection	Male × Female thread	Butt weld / other specified connection
Shape	Compact threaded body	Tapered or formed body
Size Reduction	Threaded connection	Pipe/tube diameter
Typical Application	Instruments, valves, small-bore piping	Process and utility piping
Welding	Usually not required	Common for butt-weld version

A bushing is generally the better choice when the size reduction occurs at a threaded port. A reducer is normally more appropriate when two pipe sizes need to be transitioned in a piping run.

 

8. Bushing vs Coupling

These fittings also have different functions.

Feature	Aluminum Bushing	Aluminum Coupling
Main Purpose	Reduce threaded connection size	Join two pipe sections
Thread Arrangement	Male × Female	Usually Female × Female
Sizes	Different male/female sizes	Usually same size
Typical Use	Size adaptation	Pipe joining
Example	2" × 1"	2" × 2"

A simple way to remember: a bushing is for size adaptation, a coupling is for pipe joining.

 

9. Technical Specifications

Parameter	Specification
Product	Aluminum Bushing
Types	Hex / Reducing / Flush / Custom
Connection	Male × Female Thread
Thread Type	NPT / BSPT / BSPP / Metric / Custom
Size	NPS 1/8–4 commonly supplied for forged fittings; larger sizes available for evaluation on request
GNEE Standard Supply Range	NPS 1/8–4 where applicable (confirm with GNEE)
Alloys	6061, 6063, 5083, 5086, 3003 and other suitable aluminum alloys
Temper	According to alloy and manufacturing process
Manufacturing	Forged and machined / Machined from suitable stock
Thread Standard	ASME B1.20.1-2013 (R2018) for NPT; other systems per specified standard
Fitting Standard	ASME B16.52-2024 where applicable to forged nonferrous fittings
Material Standard	ASTM B247-25 for applicable aluminum forgings; ASTM B361-16(2024) also recognized by B16.52
Surface	Mill Finish / Anodized / Custom
Inspection	Dimensional / Thread / Visual / Material Verification
Packaging	Carton / Wooden Case / Pallet according to size and shipping requirements

Note: A specific alloy and temper should not be listed as automatically available for every bushing size. ASTM B247 covers particular aluminum alloy/temper combinations and forging thickness limits. The final material specification should be checked against the selected manufacturing route.

Manufacturing Options

Forged bushing: Aluminum forging stock → Forging → Heat treatment where required → CNC machining → Thread machining → Deburring → Inspection

Machined bushing: Aluminum bar or suitable stock → Cutting → CNC turning → Internal/external machining → Threading → Deburring → Inspection

Custom bushing: Non-standard configurations produced according to drawings, samples or customer specifications

About Pipe Schedule

ASME B16.52 uses a Designated Schedule system (Schedule 40, 80 or 160) for pressure ratings and dimensions. The pressure rating of a B16.52 fitting is based on the equivalent pipe wall thickness, not a standalone pressure class. Schedule 40, 80 or 160 should not be treated as the standalone pressure rating of an aluminum bushing. The actual pressure capability depends on alloy, temper, wall thickness, fitting geometry, size, operating temperature, connection method, applicable design code and service conditions.

 

10. Aluminum Alloys for Bushings

Different aluminum alloys provide different combinations of strength, corrosion resistance, weldability and machinability.

Alloy	Main Characteristics	Potential Applications
6061	Good strength, machinability and weldability	Industrial piping and equipment
6063	Good extrusion characteristics and surface finish	Lightweight systems
5083	Good corrosion resistance and weldability	Marine and offshore applications
5086	Good corrosion resistance and weldability	Marine piping
3003	Good formability and corrosion resistance	General-purpose applications

 

11. Standards for Aluminum Bushings

Standard	Application
ASME B16.52-2024	Forged nonferrous threaded and socket-welding fittings, including aluminum and aluminum alloys
ASTM B247-25	Aluminum and aluminum-alloy die forgings, hand forgings and rolled ring forgings
ASTM B361-16(2024)	Factory-made wrought aluminum and aluminum-alloy welding fittings (recognized by B16.52 as an alternative material standard)
ASME B1.20.1-2013 (R2018)	Pipe threads, general purpose, inch (NPT)

 

12. Applications

Instrument Connections

Bushings can adapt a larger threaded equipment port to a smaller gauge, sensor or transmitter connection.

Valve Connections

A threaded bushing can adapt different connection sizes between a valve and a smaller pipe or fitting.

Compressed-Air Systems

Aluminum bushings can be used for size transitions in compatible compressed-air distribution systems.

Equipment Ports

Bushings provide a compact method of adapting threaded ports on equipment and machinery.

HVAC Systems

Suitable aluminum threaded bushings can be used for compatible small-bore connections.

Marine Equipment

Where aluminum is compatible with the service conditions, suitable marine aluminum alloys can be considered for equipment and piping connections. Material selection should account for seawater exposure, galvanic compatibility and the actual design pressure and temperature.

13. Inspection and Quality Control

GNEE can arrange inspection according to the agreed product specification and purchase order.

Dimensional Inspection

Overall length

Outside diameter

Inside diameter

Male thread diameter

Female thread dimensions

Hex size

Thread length

Thread Inspection (for threaded bushings)

Thread type verification

Thread size and pitch

Thread engagement

Thread gauge inspection per ASME B1.20.1 where applicable

Thread profile verification

Material Verification

Material certificate

Chemical composition

Alloy verification

Mechanical property documentation where required

Surface Inspection

Cracks, burrs, machining defects, dents, surface damage

Additional inspection or testing can be discussed for project orders. Inspection requirements should be agreed before production.

 

 

14. Packaging

GNEE uses export packaging designed to protect aluminum bushings during handling, loading and international transportation.

Typical packaging includes:

Individual protective bags

Plastic film

Cartons

Wooden cases

Wooden pallets

Strapping

Small bushings can be packed in cartons and secured on wooden pallets. Larger bushings or custom products can be protected with suitable packaging materials. Packaging can be adjusted according to container loading requirements, bushing size, quantity, destination and customer packaging instructions.

 

 

15. FAQ

What is an aluminum bushing?

An aluminum bushing is a threaded fitting used to connect a larger female threaded opening to a smaller male component, typically using a male thread on the outside and a female thread on the inside.

What is the difference between a bushing and a coupling?

A bushing normally has male × female threads and reduces connection size. A coupling generally connects two pipe ends and commonly has female × female connections.

Can aluminum bushings be threaded?

Yes. Aluminum bushings can be manufactured with NPT, BSP or metric threads when the selected alloy and design are suitable.

What standard covers aluminum threaded bushings?

Applicable forged aluminum threaded fittings can be specified to ASME B16.52. Table 1.2.1-6 of B16.52 specifically covers plugs and bushings. For NPT threads, ASME B1.20.1 provides the thread dimensions and gauging requirements.

What material standard applies to forged aluminum bushings?

Where forged construction is specified, ASTM B247 can specify the aluminum forging material. ASME B16.52 also recognizes ASTM B361 as an alternative material standard for aluminum. B247 is a material specification, not a dimensional fitting standard.

Can a bushing connect NPT and BSP threads?

A standard bushing should not be assumed to make NPT and BSP threads compatible. The two thread systems have different geometries and should not be mixed unless a specifically engineered adapter is designed for the application.

Can aluminum bushings connect to steel fittings?

They can be mechanically connected in some applications, but the complete system should be evaluated for galvanic corrosion, thread compatibility, service temperature, pressure and sealing requirements.

Are Schedule 40, 80 and 160 the same as pressure classes?

No. ASME B16.52 uses a Designated Schedule system based on equivalent pipe wall thickness. The pressure rating of a bushing depends on the alloy, temper, wall thickness, geometry, temperature and applicable design code. Schedule 40, 80 or 160 should not be treated as standalone pressure ratings.

Can aluminum bushings be anodized?

Anodizing is generally suitable for machined or threaded bushings. For bushings that will be welded into assemblies, confirm the anodizing requirement together with the welding process.

Can custom aluminum bushings be manufactured?

Yes. GNEE can evaluate custom male/female thread combinations, lengths, hex dimensions and special profiles based on a drawing or sample.

 

16. Request a Quote for Aluminum Bushings

GNEE supplies aluminum bushings for industrial, marine, HVAC, compressed-air, instrumentation and equipment connection applications.

For an accurate quotation, please provide:

Required Information	Example
Product	Aluminum Hex Bushing
Male Thread Size	2"
Female Thread Size	1"
Thread Standard	NPT
Alloy	6061
Temper	As required
Standard	ASME B16.52
Quantity	500 pcs
Application	Instrument Connection
Drawing	If custom

For custom aluminum bushings, a dimensional drawing is strongly recommended.

 

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