JIC vs SAE Hydraulic Fittings Which Is Right for Your Application

You need to pick the right fittings for your hydraulic system. Look at the flare angle and pressure rating. JIC fittings have a 37-degree flare. They work with higher pressure. SAE fittings have a 45-degree flare. They are better for lower pressure. Novafit is a trusted supplier of hydraulic fittings. They have strict quality checks and global certifications.

Certification/Standard	Description
IATF16949:2016	Quality rules for making car parts
ISO 9001:2015	Rules for good quality systems
ISO 14001:2015	Rules for caring for the environment
ISO 45001:2018	Rules for health and safety at work

You can trust Novafit for Hose fitting solutions. Their products meet high standards. Use this information to help you choose the right fittings for your hydraulic systems.

Selection Guide for JIC and SAE Fittings

• Pick JIC fittings for jobs with high pressure. They can handle up to 7700 psig. These fittings are good for factories and the military.
• Use SAE fittings for systems with lower pressure. They work well in cars and plumbing. SAE fittings give strong and safe connections.
• Make sure the thread type matches your system. JIC fittings use UNF threads. SAE fittings use NPT threads. This helps stop leaks.
• Think about what the fittings are made of. JIC fittings are usually steel or stainless steel. SAE fittings are often brass, copper, or aluminum.
• Do not mix JIC and SAE fittings. They have different flare angles and thread types. Mixing them can cause leaks or make the system fail.

SAE vs JIC Fittings Comparison

Quick Table

It is important to compare SAE and JIC fittings before you pick one for your hydraulic system. The table below shows the main ways these two flare fittings are different. You can look at the flare angle, pressure rating, material, and thread type to see what makes each unique.

Feature	JIC (37° Flare Fittings)	SAE (45° Flare Fittings)
Flare Angle	37°	45°
Pressure Rating	Higher pressure tolerance	Lower pressure tolerance
Common Materials	Steel, stainless steel	Brass, copper, aluminum
Thread Type	UNF (Unified National Fine)	NPT (National Pipe Thread)

Tip: Novafit checks every hydraulic fitting with advanced inspection tools and strict quality rules. This means you get products that work well and meet global standards every time.

Main Differences

When you compare SAE and JIC fittings, you see some big differences. The flare angle is easy to spot first. JIC flare fittings have a 37-degree angle. SAE flare fittings have a 45-degree angle. This change affects how the fittings seal and how much pressure they can take.

JIC fittings are best for high-pressure jobs. You find them in places like factories, airplanes, and military machines. SAE fittings are good for medium-pressure systems. You often see them in cars and smaller machines.

The material is also important. JIC flare fittings are made from steel or stainless steel. These metals are strong and can handle heat well. SAE flare fittings use brass, copper, or aluminum. These metals fight rust better but are not as strong.

Thread type matters too when you look at SAE and JIC fittings. JIC fittings use UNF threads. SAE fittings use NPT threads. You need to match the thread type to your system so you do not get leaks and your connection stays tight.

Always check the pressure rating before you pick flare fittings. JIC fittings can handle more pressure. SAE fittings work with less pressure. If you need a fitting for a tough job, JIC is the best choice. If your job is lighter, SAE should work fine.

Novafit is a leader in hydraulic fittings. You get certified products and careful inspections from them. Their focus on quality means you get fittings that last and work well for any job.

JIC Fittings

Features

JIC fittings are special because they have a 37-degree flare. This flare shape helps make a strong seal. The seal is tight because the metal parts touch each other. JIC flare fittings work well in high-pressure systems. They can handle up to 7700 psig (531 bar). Stainless steel JIC fittings work in very hot or cold places. They can go from -425°F to 1200°F. You can pick from 316/316L stainless steel, Alloy 400, or brass. JIC fittings come in sizes from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. You can connect them with ORFS, NPT, BSP, SAE, braze socket weld, or butt weld ends.

Specification	Details
Working Pressure	Vacuum to 7700 psig (531 bar)
Temperature Rating	Stainless: -425 to 1200°F
	Brass: -40 to 400°F
	Alloy 400: -65 to 800°F
Body Materials	316/316L SS, Alloy 400, Brass
O-Ring Materials	FKM and NBR
Sizes	1/8 to 2 in. (6mm to 38mm)
End Connections	ORFS, NPT, BSP, SAE, Braze Socket Weld, Butt Weld

Novafit checks every JIC fitting with special tools. They use strict rules to make sure the fittings are good. You get JIC flare fittings that meet world standards.

Uses

JIC flare fittings are used in many jobs. They help move fuel in military systems. They connect control valves to hydraulic tubes. You see JIC fittings in airplanes and airline ground gear. Plumbers use them for flexible hydraulic pipes. JIC fittings are also in building machines and farm equipment. They are used in factories and on boats. People use them for testing and checking pressure too.

• Military fuel delivery
• Aerospace fluid systems
• Plumbing and hydraulic tubing
• Mobile construction equipment
• Agricultural machinery
• Industrial automation
• Marine and aerospace lines
• Diagnostic and test-point settings

Pros and Cons

JIC fittings have many good points for hydraulic systems. You can find JIC flare fittings in most stores. They work in medium and high-pressure jobs. They are good for hot places too. JIC fittings are easy to put in and take care of. They seal well even if you do not use much force.

Advantages	Disadvantages
Easy to find	Prone to over-tightening during installation
Medium to high pressure rating	Susceptible to damage from over-tightening
Good for high temperatures	Limited reusability due to metal-to-metal sealing
Simple installation and maintenance	Limited to hydraulic applications
Effective sealing at low torque

Do not tighten JIC flare fittings too much. If you do, they can break or crack. Novafit checks their fittings so they last a long time and work well.

SAE Hydraulic Fittings

Features

SAE hydraulic fittings have a 45-degree flare. This shape helps make a strong seal. The seal is metal touching metal. SAE flare fittings use tapered NPT threads. When you tighten the fitting, the threads squeeze together. This makes the seal tighter. SAE flare fittings work best in systems with lower pressure. You can pick from brass, copper, or aluminum. These materials do not rust easily. They work well in many places. SAE hydraulic fittings can be used in different systems. Novafit sells SAE flare fittings in many sizes and shapes. You can find the right fitting for your job.

• SAE flare fittings have a 45-degree flare for sealing.
• Tapered NPT threads help stop leaks.
• SAE flare fittings work in low and medium-pressure systems.
• Brass, copper, and aluminum fight rust.
• Novafit has many SAE hydraulic fittings for different uses.

Uses

SAE hydraulic fittings are used in many fields. You see SAE flare fittings in cars. They connect fuel lines and brakes. SAE hydraulic fittings are also in air conditioners and fridges. You can use SAE flare fittings in plumbing and water pipes. SAE hydraulic fittings fit light machines in factories. Novafit makes SAE flare fittings for many hydraulic systems.

1. SAE 37° flare fittings join metal tubes in hydraulic systems.
2. SAE O-ring Boss fittings help stop leaks in important jobs.
3. SAE O-ring Face Seal fittings give leak-free connections.
4. SAE JIC fittings are trusted in high-pressure hydraulic systems.

Pros and Cons

SAE hydraulic fittings have many good points. You can put SAE flare fittings in easily. The fittings do not rust or corrode. SAE flare fittings work well in low-pressure jobs. You can get SAE hydraulic fittings in many sizes and metals. Novafit checks every fitting for quality.

Pros	Cons
Easy to put in	Not good for very high pressure
Many metals to choose from	Limited temperature range
Good at fighting rust	Need to match threads carefully
Work in many hydraulic systems

Tip: Pick SAE flare fittings from Novafit for strong performance and certified quality in your hydraulic systems.

Key Differences

Flare Angle

The biggest difference is the flare angle. JIC fittings have a 37-degree flare. SAE fittings have a 45-degree flare. The angle changes how they connect and seal. Using the wrong angle can cause leaks. It can also make your system work badly. Always pick the right flare angle for your system.

Sealing

Sealing stops leaks and keeps your system safe. JIC fittings make a strong seal with metal touching metal. They use a 37-degree flare for this. Most times, you do not need O-rings or sealants. JIC fittings work well in high-pressure and shaking places. Some JIC fittings have an O-ring at the nose. This gives extra leak protection. SAE fittings have a 45-degree flare. They work best in lower-pressure systems. They do not seal as well as JIC fittings.

Tip: Pick JIC flare fittings for tough jobs where leaks are a big problem.

Thread Type

Thread type is important for connecting fittings. JIC fittings use UNF threads. These are common in North America and big machines. SAE fittings use NPT threads. These are used in plumbing and many other jobs. You cannot swap these thread types. Always check the thread type before you put in flare fittings.

Feature	JIC Fittings (UNF)	SAE Fittings (NPT)
Thread Standard	SAE J514	SAE J512
Application	Hydraulic systems	Plumbing, general

Material

The material you pick matters for rust and how long it lasts. JIC fittings are often made from stainless steel or carbon steel. These metals are strong and last a long time. SAE fittings are usually brass, copper, or aluminum. These are lighter and fight rust but are not as strong. Think about where and how you will use the fittings.

1. Stainless steel does not rust and lasts in tough places.
2. Brass is good for low pressure and does not rust.
3. Aluminum is light and good for moving machines.
4. Carbon steel is strong but needs a coating to stop rust.

Note: Novafit fittings are tested with salt spray to make sure they do not rust and stay strong.

Compatibility

Compatibility keeps your hydraulic system safe and working well. Mixing JIC and SAE fittings can cause bad seals. This can lead to leaks. Never mix these fittings in one system. Always use the right flare angle and thread type for your job.

• Bad sealing
• More leaks
• System might break

Aspect	JIC Fittings	SAE Fittings
Flare Angle	37 degrees	45 degrees
Interchangeability	Not advised	Not advised

You can save money and avoid problems by picking the right fittings for your hydraulic system.

Choosing Hydraulic Fittings

Picking hydraulic fittings does not have to be hard. You can follow simple steps to make it easier. Focus on pressure, thread type, where you use them, and if they fit together. This helps you choose between JIC and SAE flare fittings.

Decision Guide

You want your hydraulic system to work well and stay safe. Here is a guide to help you pick JIC or SAE fittings:

1. Identify the Pressure Requirements
   First, check how much pressure your system will have. JIC fittings are good for high-pressure jobs. Sae fittings work best with lower or medium pressure.
2. Check the Thread Type
   Look at the threads on your equipment. Jic uses UNF threads. Sae uses NPT threads. Matching threads stops leaks and keeps things tight.
3. Consider the Application
   Think about where you need the fittings. Jic flare fittings are used in factories, planes, and military gear. Sae flare fittings are found in cars, fridges, and plumbing.
4. Review Material Compatibility
   Pick materials that do not rust and match your fluid. Jic fittings are made from steel or stainless steel. Sae fittings come in brass, copper, or aluminum.
5. Evaluate Compatibility
   Do not mix JIC and SAE flare fittings in one system. Always use the right flare angle and thread type for your job.

Tip: Novafit has many hydraulic fittings and expert help. You can get custom fittings for special hydraulic jobs.

Pressure Needs

Choosing the right pressure rating keeps your hydraulic system safe. Using the wrong rating can cause leaks or make your system fail. Jic fittings are strong and made for high-pressure jobs. Sae fittings are easy to put in and work for lower pressure. Picking too high a rating costs more money, so match the fitting to your needs.

• Jic fittings are for high-pressure systems.
• Sae fittings are for low or medium pressure.
• Wrong pressure rating can cause leaks or poor work.
• Always match the fitting to your system’s pressure.

Thread Match

Getting the right thread type stops leaks and helps your system last longer. Always clean and check threads before you use them. Use the right seal for your thread, like O-rings or flares. Follow the maker’s torque rules so you do not tighten too much or too little. Check your fittings often for damage and change them if needed. Watch for leaks or drops in pressure, which can mean a problem.

• Clean and check threads before using.
• Use the right seal for your thread type.
• Follow torque rules to stop leaks.
• Check fittings often for damage.

Application

Where you use the fitting matters. Jic flare fittings are best for tough places like factories, planes, and military vehicles. Sae flare fittings work well in cars, fridges, and plumbing. Think about temperature, shaking, and fluid type in your system. Jic fittings seal tight for hard jobs. Sae fittings are flexible and easy to put in for lighter jobs.

• Jic flare fittings: factories, planes, military.
• Sae flare fittings: cars, fridges, plumbing.
• Match the fitting to your system’s place and fluid.

Compatibility

Making sure fittings match keeps your system safe and working. Mixing JIC and SAE flare fittings can cause leaks and break your system. Always use the right flare angle and thread type. Check local rules and what the maker says. Novafit has custom fittings and many choices, so you can find what you need.

Novafit Support Feature	Benefit
Optimized Material Utilization	Cuts waste and saves money
Enhanced Mechanical Properties	Makes fittings strong for high pressure
Scalable Manufacturing	Gives good quality for big orders
Precision at Every Step	Make sure assemblies are high-quality and have fewer mistakes

• Novafit uses special forging to make fittings tough.
• They make blanks in-house for steady quality.
• Good fittings mean less downtime and machines keep running.

Note: Novafit’s team can help you pick the right hydraulic fittings for any job, from regular work to custom projects.

Interchangeability

Compatibility Issues

You might think you can swap JIC and SAE hydraulic fittings. But you cannot do this. These fittings look almost the same, but they are different. JIC fittings have a 37-degree flare. SAE fittings have a 45-degree flare. This difference means they will not seal right if you mix them. You could get leaks and your system may not work well.

If you connect fittings with different thread types, you can hurt the threads. JIC fittings use UNF threads. SAE fittings use NPT threads. These threads do not fit together. If you try to force them, you can strip or crack the threads. Always check the flare angle and thread type before you connect fittings.

Tip: Use the same type of fitting in your hydraulic system. This helps stop leaks and keeps your equipment working well.

Risks

Mixing JIC and SAE fittings can cause big problems. You might see leaks where the fittings join. Leaks can make you lose hydraulic fluid. This can stop your system from working. Sometimes, leaks can be dangerous or break other parts.

Here are some risks if you mix the wrong fittings:

• Leaks waste fluid and lower pressure
• Damaged threads make repairs harder
• More downtime from system failures
• Higher costs from fixing things again and again

Problem	Result
Leaks	Fluid loss, safety hazard
Thread damage	Costly repairs
Poor sealing	System failure

You keep your system safe and save money by using the right fittings. Always match the flare angle and thread type for the best results.

You can pick JIC or SAE hydraulic fittings by checking the flare angle, pressure rating, and material. Novafit gives you certified fittings and good help for your business. You can talk to experts, get help before problems happen, and get fast service if something goes wrong. New trends include smart fittings and materials that are better for the environment. The table below can help you choose.

Selection Criteria	Description
Robustness	High abrasion resistance for dynamic applications
Media Compatibility	Works with many hydraulic oils, including biodegradable options
Service and Support	Access to technical innovations and global support

Ask Novafit or a technical expert if you need help with your hydraulic system.

FAQ

What is the main difference between JIC and SAE hydraulic fittings?

The flare angle is the biggest difference. JIC fittings have a 37-degree flare. SAE fittings have a 45-degree flare. This changes how they seal and handle pressure. Always pick the fitting that matches your system.

Can you mix JIC and SAE fittings in one hydraulic system?

Do not mix JIC and SAE fittings together. Their flare angles and thread types are different. Mixing them can cause leaks and break your system. Use only one type for safety and good performance.

How do you choose the right hydraulic fitting material?

Think about your system’s pressure, temperature, and fluid. Steel and stainless steel are good for high pressure. Brass, copper, and aluminum do not rust easily. Novafit has many certified materials for different jobs.

Why do pressure ratings matter for hydraulic fittings?

Pressure ratings help keep your system safe. Using a low-rated fitting in high pressure can cause leaks or break it. Always check the pressure rating before putting in any fitting.