In plumbing applications, which fitting is typically employed for reducing pipe size?

In plumbing applications, reducers are specifically designed to connect two pipes of different diameters, effectively reducing the size of the pipe. This fitting allows for a seamless transition between a larger pipe and a smaller pipe, which is essential in systems where the flow needs to be adjusted without creating turbulence or pressure issues.

Reducers can be found in various configurations, such as concentric or eccentric, depending on the needs of the installation, thus providing versatility in managing flow rates and pipe sizes. The design of a reducer ensures that the plumbing system remains efficient and minimizes potential spillovers or leaks often associated with improper fittings.

Other types of fittings, such as elbows, tees, and caps, serve different purposes. Elbows are used to change the direction of the pipe, tees are utilized to join three pipes at a junction, and caps are used to seal the end of a pipe. While these fittings are crucial for various plumbing configurations, they do not function to reduce pipe size, which is why the reducer is the correct choice in this context.