Mercedes Mullins
Flaring is the final step in building a custom line for a fluid transfer project. There are two basic types of flares used on OEM automotive brake systems: the SAE/double (inverted/45-degree) flare and the DIN/ISO bubble flare. The most common style of flare used in automotive hard lines is the 45-degree inverted flare, which is an SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard. The 45-degree flare utilizes an inverted flare fitting, often shortened to IFF. When it comes to fuel lines, single or double flares can be used.
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What You'll Learn
- The 45-degree inverted flare is the SAE standard and is the most common style for automotive hard lines
- The 37-degree flare was standardised for aircraft use during WWII and can be used with single and double flares
- The DIN/ISO bubble flare is the European style and is becoming more common
- Single flares are not allowed on steel brake lines
- Double flares are more common than single flares and are generally considered safer
The 45-degree inverted flare is the SAE standard and is the most common style for automotive hard lines
The 45-degree inverted flare, often shortened to IFF, is the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard. It is the most common style for automotive hard lines, including brake, fuel, and transmission fluid transfer lines. This type of flare is created in a two-step process, resulting in a double-walled flare seat. The 45-degree angle of the flare seat and the use of external or male threads on the fitting distinguish it from other types of flares. The extra wall thickness of the double flare provides added strength, eliminating the need for a tube sleeve or flare seat support.
The 45-degree inverted flare is widely used in stock components, making it a popular choice for vehicle restoration projects. It is also commonly found in brake systems, fuel lines, and mechanical fuel pumps. The SAE standard is known for its tolerance to production variations, ensuring consistent performance across assemblies. However, it is important to note that SAE/double flares are typically used in American and Asian cars, while European vehicles often feature the DIN/ISO bubble flare style.
When creating custom bent and terminated hard lines for brake and fuel systems, having the correct tools is essential. A tubing cutter is recommended for achieving a clean cut on the raw hard line, and a tube bender is necessary to match the line's template. Flaring tools, such as the 45-degree flare tool, are then used to flare the ends of the lines for installation. This process requires practice to perfect, and it is an important step in ensuring the functionality and safety of automotive fluid transfer systems.
It is worth noting that there are alternative flare styles, such as the 37-degree flare, which was standardised during WWII for aircraft use. Additionally, single flares and double flares are options to consider, with double flares being more common to prevent slipping. However, the choice between a single or double flare depends on the specific application and personal preference. For example, stainless steel lines are typically single-flared, while steel brake lines should never be single-flared.
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The 37-degree flare was standardised for aircraft use during WWII and can be used with single and double flares
The 37-degree flare, also known as the AN (Army/Navy) flare, was standardised for aircraft use during World War II. This type of flare is commonly used in high-performance braking components, high-pressure EFI-compatible fuel lines, and other aftermarket pieces with AN fittings. It is a single flare process that requires a tube sleeve to support the back of the flare, which is then secured with a female-threaded tube nut. The 37-degree flare is often chosen for its polished and finished look, with the option to purchase tube sleeves and nuts in various colours to complement the surrounding frame or firewall.
When identifying the type of flare on a brake line, it is important to distinguish between the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) and DIN (Deutsches Institut für Normung) standards. The SAE flare, also known as the double or inverted 45-degree flare, is the most common type found in automotive hard lines, including brake, fuel, and transmission fluid transfer lines. It is characterised by its two-step creation process, resulting in a double-walled flare seat and external or male threads on the fitting. On the other hand, the DIN flare, also known as the ISO bubble flare, is commonly found in modern cars, especially European models.
The 37-degree flare can accommodate both single and double flares, making it versatile in various applications. Single flares are typically used with stainless steel lines, while double flares are standard for steel brake lines. It is important to note that the choice between a single or double flare depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the project.
When working with aircraft, it is crucial to ensure that the flare angle is correct. Aircraft typically use hoses with a 37-degree flare, while industrial fittings often use a 45-degree flare angle. Mating the correct angles is essential to create a leak-tight seal, as mixing 45-degree and 37-degree fittings can lead to improper sealing.
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The DIN/ISO bubble flare is the European style and is becoming more common
The DIN/ISO bubble flare, also known as the European style, is becoming more and more common. This style of flare is typically found on all European cars, but its use is no longer limited to the continent. The DIN flare is identified by its distinct appearance, where the end of the tubing resembles a button, and the backside angle of the flare is 90 degrees. To use a DIN flare, a nut with a "lead" is required.
The DIN flare is one of the two basic types of flares used on OEM automotive brake systems globally, the other being the SAE/double (inverted/45-degree) flare. While the SAE flare is the most common type, found on American and Asian cars, the DIN flare is increasingly being used in various regions. The SAE flare features a 45-degree angle on the backside of the flare and is often identified by its funnel-like shape leading into the ID of the tubing.
The choice between using a single or double flare depends on the material of the fuel line. Single flares are generally not recommended for steel brake lines, and double flares are not advised for stainless steel lines as they can cause cracks. When working with stainless steel, it is preferable to use a single flare or compression fittings.
It is worth noting that the 45-degree inverted flare is the most prevalent style used in automotive hard lines, including brake, fuel, and transmission fluid transfer lines. This style is standardised by the SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) and is characterised by its two-step process, resulting in a double-walled flare seat. The 45-degree flare also uses external or male threads on the fitting, eliminating the need for a tube sleeve or flare seat support due to the extra wall thickness.
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Single flares are not allowed on steel brake lines
When it comes to brake and fuel line servicing, changing a fuel filter or brake caliper rarely requires fabricating a new fuel or brake line. However, when building or upgrading a vehicle, you may need to create custom-bent and terminated hard lines for your brake and fuel systems. This process involves cutting the line, bending it to match your template, and finally, flaring the ends.
Flaring is a crucial step in ensuring leak-free connections and reliable performance. There are two common types of flares: single flares and double flares. Single flares are typically used for low-pressure applications like carbureted fuel systems, while double flares are suitable for high-pressure systems like brake systems. Using the wrong type of flare can lead to potential leaks and system failures.
The 45-degree inverted flare, often referred to as IFF, is the most common style of flare used in automotive hard lines, including brake and fuel lines. It is an SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard and is found on most American and Asian cars. However, it is important to note that single flares are not allowed on steel brake lines. This is because steel brake lines require a more secure connection due to the high pressure they operate under.
While single flares are not suitable for steel brake lines, they can be used for other applications. For example, fuel, power brake, and transmission fluid lines sometimes use single flare ends because they operate under lower internal pressure and have a larger diameter, making them stronger. Additionally, single flares can be used with AN/37-degree fittings, which were standardized by the Army/Navy during World War II for aircraft use.
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Double flares are more common than single flares and are generally considered safer
When it comes to fuel lines, there are two types of flares: single flares and double flares. While both styles can get the job done, double flares are more common and are generally considered safer.
Double flares are more common because they are the SAE standard for brake lines, which are found on all American and Asian cars. The 45-degree inverted flare is the most common style of flare used in automotive hard lines like brake, fuel, and transmission fluid transfer lines. This style of flare utilizes an inverted flare fitting, often shortened to "IFF" when shopping for fittings. A tube sleeve or any sort of flare seat support is not required due to the extra wall thickness of the double flare that this style uses.
Double flares are also considered safer than single flares because they provide a better seal. With a double flare, you have more material (two thicknesses) to crush against the bevel side of the fitting, so it has a better chance of being leak-free. This is especially important when dealing with fuel lines, as fuel leaks can be dangerous. Some people even recommend using double flares on all joints, regardless of the pressure, to ensure safety.
Additionally, double flares are more forgiving when it comes to production variations. The SAE/double flare standard is remarkably tolerant of production differences, which can provide some peace of mind when working with fuel lines.
However, it is worth noting that single flares are still used and can be sufficient in certain situations. For example, single flares are allowed on Cunifer (seamless) brake lines and are commonly used with stock components when restoring a vehicle. Ultimately, the decision between a single or double flare may come down to personal preference and the specific requirements of the project.
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Frequently asked questions
There are two basic types of flares used for fuel lines: the SAE/double (inverted/45-degree) flare and the DIN/ISO bubble flare. The SAE flare is the most common type and is typically found on all American and Asian cars. The DIN flare, on the other hand, is more common in European cars.
The SAE flare, also known as the 45-degree inverted flare, is an SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) standard. It utilizes an inverted flare fitting, often shortened to "IFF". It features external or male threads on the fitting, and does not require a tube sleeve or flare seat support due to its double-walled design.
While it is not recommended to use a single flare on automotive components, it is acceptable to use a single flare on Cunifer™ (seamless) brake lines with AN/37-degree fittings. However, it is important to note that single flares are never allowed on steel brake lines.
