Parker Hannifin’s Fluid Systems Connector Division has announced a significant manufacturing transition affecting a wide range of brass fittings. As part of Phase 2 of an ongoing initiative, Parker is moving production from extruded bar stock to forged components for many pipe fittings, including tees and elbows.
This change reflects broader industry pressures and Parker’s commitment to improving product performance, manufacturing efficiency, and long-term value for customers.
Why Parker Is Changing the Manufacturing Process
The primary driver behind this transition is cost and supply chain sustainability. Over the past two years, Parker has experienced unprecedented price increases in extruded brass bar stock, with the cost gap between extrusion and forging continuing to grow.
By shifting to forging, Parker aims to:
- Reduce material and production costs
- Simplify manufacturing operations
- Improve production efficiency
- Maintain long-term product availability
This strategic move ensures Parker can continue supplying high-quality brass fittings in a more sustainable and scalable way.
What Is Changing: Extrusion vs. Forging
The key difference lies in how the brass fittings are manufactured:
- Extrusion: Machining fittings from extruded bar stock
- Forging: Shaping brass using compression forces, aligning grain structure with the part geometry
While both methods produce functional fittings, forging offers several advantages—especially in durability and structural integrity.
Impact on Form, Fit, and Function
Parker has carefully evaluated how this transition affects end users. Here’s what customers can expect:
Form
- Slight visual differences in the finished product
- Changes are noticeable but not significant
Fit
- Minor variations in envelope dimensions
- Possible changes to centerline measurements
- Important for customers with tight tolerances or specialized tooling
Function
- No change in function
Durability
- Improved durability due to grain flow following the fitting shape
- Increased resistance to shock and vibration
Performance
- Continues to meet or exceed SAE and regulatory standards.
Timeline for the Transition
Parker began implementing this change in January 2026, with completion scheduled by August 2026.
| Phase | Last Date for Extruded Orders | Extruded Parts Obsolete |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | May 18, 2026 | June 15, 2026 |
| 2 | August 17, 2026 | September 14, 2026 |
| 3 | November 9, 2026 | December 14, 2026 |
Customers should plan accordingly to avoid disruptions, especially for applications requiring validation or approval processes.
What This Means for Customers
For most users of Parker brass fittings, the transition will be seamless. However, there are a few important considerations:
1. Review Fit and Tooling
If your application depends on precise dimensions or custom tooling, you should review the updated forged part drawings.
2. Plan for PPAP Requirements
Customers requiring PPAP approval must complete validation before receiving forged replacements. Delays may impact supply.
3. Expect Improved Durability
Forged fittings offer better mechanical strength and resistance to vibration—an advantage in demanding applications.
4. Update Part Numbers
Many extruded part numbers will be replaced with forged equivalents (e.g., 2202P-4-2 → 1202P-4-2) .
Affected Brass Fittings – Part List 1
(Orders accepted until May 18, 2026 – Change effective January 2026)
| Affected Parts | Replacement Part | Reference Part Drawings |
|---|---|---|
| 2200P-8-8 | 1200P-8-8 | 1200P-8-8 |
| 2225P-4 | 1225P-4 | 1225P-4 |
| NI2200P-8-8 | NI1200P-8-8 | 1200P-8-8 |
| NI2225P-4 | NI1225P-4 | 1225P-4 |
| OX2225P-4 | OX1225P-4 | 1225P-4 |
| VS2225P-4 | VS1225P-4 | 1225P-4 |
| 2202P-12-12 | 1202P-12-12 | 1202P-12-12 |
| 2202P-12-8 | 1202P-12-8 | 1202P-12-8 |
| 2202P-4-2 | 1202P-4-2 | 1202P-4-2 |
| 2202P-4-6 | 1202P-4-6 | 1202P-4-6 |
(See full list in document for all affected parts)
Affected Brass Fittings – Part List 2
(Orders accepted until August 17, 2026 – Change effective April 2026)
| Affected Parts | Replacement Part | Reference Part Drawings |
|---|---|---|
| 2203P-12 | 1203P-12 | 1203P-12 |
| 2203P-6 | 1203P-6 | 1203P-6 |
| 2225P-12 | 1225P-12 | 1225P-12 |
| 2225P-2 | 1225P-2 | 1225P-2 |
| 2225P-6 | 1225P-6 | 1225P-6 |
| 2225P-8 | 1225P-8 | 1225P-8 |
| ENIVS2225P-8 | ENIVS1225P-8 | 1225P-8 |
(See full list in document for all affected parts)
Affected Brass Fittings – Part List 3
(Orders accepted until November 9, 2026 – Change effective July 2026)
| Affected Parts | Replacement Part | Reference Part Drawings |
|---|---|---|
| 2201P-2-2 | 1201P-2-2 | 1201P-2-2 |
| 2205P-12 | 1205P-12 | 1205P-12 |
| 2205P-2 | 1205P-2 | 1205P-2 |
| 2205P-4 | 1205P-4 | 1205P-4 |
| 2205P-6 | 1205P-6 | 1205P-6 |
| 2205P-8 | 1205P-8 | 1205P-8 |
| 2214P-12-12 | 1214P-12-12 | 1214P-12-12 |
(See full list in document for all affected parts)
Final Thoughts
Parker’s transition from extrusion to forging marks an important evolution in the manufacturing of brass fittings. While the change introduces minor differences in form and fit, it ultimately delivers stronger, more durable components and a more efficient supply chain.
For most users, the transition will be straightforward. However, reviewing part numbers, validating fit, and planning for approval processes will ensure a smooth changeover.
If you rely on Parker brass fittings, now is the time to evaluate your current inventory, update specifications, and coordinate with your Western Integrated Technologies representative to stay ahead of the transition.
Please contact our team with any questions.
