This Spears 90-degree elbow pipe fitting, in gray, is made of schedule 40 PVC and has a socket end connection and a female NPT threaded connection. This 90-degree elbow fitting, or "ell," connects two pipes at a 90-degree angle to change the direction of flow between pipes. It has a female socket connection for sliding over the end of a male pipe on one end and female National Pipe Taper (NPT) threads for connecting to a male threaded pipe on the other end. The socket end connects to pipes with a smooth bore for enhanced flow and the threaded end creates a tighter seal than straight threads. This schedule 40 (standard wall) fitting is made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) for corrosion resistance, high strength, and less weight than fittings made from metal. It is compatible with schedule 40 PVC pipes and fittings. PVC can be connected to other materials such as steel, copper, or cast iron using transition fittings. This fitting provides superior flow to metal because of its smooth interior finish, which reduces friction and inhibits buildup of materials. This fitting complies with National Sanitation Foundation International (NSF)/American National Standards Institute (ANSI) 61 Annex G, NSF/ANSI 372, and conforms with lead content requirements for lead free plumbing as defined by California, Vermont, Maryland, and Louisiana state laws and the U.S. Safe Drinking Water Act due to take effect January 2014. This 90-degree elbow pipe fitting is suitable for use in cold-water pressure distribution systems including irrigation, pool and spa, potable water, and chilled water applications. Pipe fittings are components used for connecting, terminating, controlling flow, and changing the direction of piping in many different industries. When purchasing pipe fittings, consider the application, as this will affect material type, shape, size, and required durability. Fittings are available threaded or unthreaded, in many shapes, styles, sizes, and schedules (pipe wall thickness).Spears Manufacturing produces thermoplastic fittings and valves for fluid, drain, waste, and vent systems. The company, founded in 1969 and headquartered in Sylmar, CA, meets International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standard 9001.