When it comes to hydraulic fittings, AN and JIC are two names that often come up. At first glance, they might seem quite similar, but there are key differences between them. Let’s dive into their histories, uses, and specifications to understand them better.
A Brief History of Army Navy (AN) Couplings
AN fittings, standing for Air Force – Navy Aeronautical Design Standards, were primarily developed for military aviation systems. Given the critical nature of their application, they were manufactured to the highest specifications and performance standards. However, as time went on, confusion arose. Many fittings in the market claimed to be AN standard, but in reality, they weren’t. This not only caused confusion but also posed potential safety risks.
To address this, a new standard, JIC (Joint Industries Council), was introduced. JIC fittings, often referred to as SAE J514 Flare fittings, were primarily for industrial applications like agriculture. They were similar to AN fittings but had a slightly lower thread quality and were more affordable.
Key Differences Between AN and JIC Fittings
- Threads:
- AN 37° flare fittings: Both male and female fittings adhere to class 3A/3B UNJ/UNJF radiused root threads. These threads have a root radius that strengthens the thread, offering tighter tolerances and better fatigue life. This makes them ideal for aircraft, aerospace, and military applications.
- SAE 37° Flare fittings: These fittings follow class 2A/2B UN/UNF series threads, designed for an optimal thread fit that balances performance, manufacturing, economy, and convenience.
- Standards:
- AN flare fittings: They comply with MIL-F-5509 specifications and AS4841.
- SAE/ISO 37° fittings: They adhere to the United States Department of Defense MIL-F-18866 and SAE J514/ISO 8434-2.
- Materials:
- AN fittings: Typically made from carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, and copper-nickel.
- SAE 37° fittings: Commonly produced from carbon steel, stainless steel, and brass.
In Conclusion
While AN and JIC fittings might appear similar and serve related purposes, their differences in threads, standards, and materials make them suitable for distinct applications. AN fittings are more tailored for military and aerospace applications due to their higher specifications, while JIC fittings are more common in industrial settings.
If you’re looking for top-quality AN and JIC hydraulic fittings, Hydraxio is a leading manufacturer in this domain. Reach out to our sales team for more information.
