🔧 Introduction — What is a GI Elbow?
A Galvanized Iron (GI) Elbow is a pipe fitting that allows you to change the direction of water or fluid flow within a piping system. It is one of the most commonly used fittings in plumbing, irrigation, and industrial piping due to its strength, corrosion resistance, and ease of installation.
At TapMaster Kenya, we stock high-quality GI Elbows in multiple sizes and bend angles — designed to last, even under high pressure and challenging environments. Whether you’re setting up a home water system, commercial plumbing line, or industrial pipeline, a GI Elbow ensures reliable performance and leak-free connections.
🧱 What is a Galvanized Iron (GI) Elbow Made Of?
GI Elbows are made from malleable cast iron coated with a layer of zinc (galvanization). This coating forms a protective barrier against rust and corrosion, extending the lifespan of the fitting — especially in humid or outdoor conditions.
Key Composition Features:
- Base Material: Malleable Cast Iron
- Surface Treatment: Hot-Dip Zinc Galvanization
- Thread Type: BSP (British Standard Pipe Threads)
- Connection Type: Female or Male
💪 Benefits of Using a GI Elbow
- Excellent Corrosion Resistance
The zinc coating shields the fitting from rust, ensuring durability in both indoor and outdoor use. - High Strength & Pressure Tolerance
Ideal for plumbing systems carrying pressurized water, gas, or steam. - Smooth Flow Direction
The internal curve ensures smooth directional change without turbulence or pressure drop. - Easy to Install
Standard threading allows quick installation with a wrench and sealant — no welding required. - Cost-Effective & Long-Lasting
Compared to plastic or brass alternatives, GI elbows offer unbeatable strength-to-cost value.
📏 Types and Sizes of GI Elbows Available at TapMaster Kenya
At TapMaster Kenya, we provide all common angles and sizes of GI Elbows to match your specific piping needs.
| Elbow Type | Description | Available Angles | Sizes (Inches) |
|---|---|---|---|
| GI Elbow (90°) | Standard elbow for right-angle pipe turns | 90° | ½″, ¾″, 1″, 1¼″, 1½″, 2″ |
| GI Elbow (45°) | Used for gentle directional changes | 45° | ½″, ¾″, 1″, 1¼″, 1½″, 2″ |
| GI Street Elbow | Has male & female threads for compact connections | 90° / 45° | ½″ to 2″ |
All our elbows meet Kenyan plumbing standards and are BSP threaded for universal compatibility.
🧰 Common Applications of GI Elbows
GI Elbows are widely used in:
- Domestic water piping systems
- Irrigation lines and garden plumbing
- Compressed air systems
- Industrial pipelines (gas, oil, or steam)
- Firefighting water supply systems
- HVAC and mechanical installations
⚙️ Installation Tips for GI Elbows
- Clean both pipe and fitting threads before connecting.
- Use PTFE (Teflon) tape or pipe sealant for leak-free joints.
- Tighten with a wrench — but avoid over-torquing, as this can damage threads.
- After installation, test the system for leaks under normal working pressure.
- For outdoor installations, inspect galvanization periodically for damage.
🔩 GI Elbow vs PVC Elbow — Which is Better?
| Feature | GI Elbow | PVC Elbow |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Galvanized Iron | Plastic (PVC) |
| Strength | Very High | Moderate |
| Corrosion Resistance | Excellent (Zinc coated) | High but UV sensitive |
| Temperature Tolerance | Up to 400°C | Up to 60°C |
| Common Use | Industrial & Domestic | Domestic & Light Duty |
| Lifespan | 20+ years | 10–15 years |
Verdict:
Choose GI Elbows for strength, durability, and resistance to pressure or heat. For permanent plumbing and outdoor systems, GI remains the superior choice.
🏪 Why Buy GI Elbows from TapMaster Kenya?
At TapMaster Kenya, we’re not just another plumbing store — we’re Kenya’s trusted supplier for quality Galvanized Iron fittings and sanitary accessories.
Here’s why customers choose us:
✅ Quality Assured: All fittings meet international standards for durability and safety.
🚚 Same-Day Delivery: Available in Nairobi and nearby towns.
🌍 Countrywide Delivery: Fast shipping to all Kenyan counties.
💧 Wide Range: From elbows and tees to sockets, unions, nipples, and more.
📞 Excellent Support: Our team helps you select the right fitting for your project.
🛒 Order your GI Elbow today from TapMaster Kenya — built to last, engineered for strength.
🧴 Maintenance Tips for GI Elbows
- Inspect regularly for thread wear or leaks.
- Avoid using corrosive chemicals directly on fittings.
- Store unused fittings in a dry place.
- Replace if zinc coating is visibly corroded or cracked.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions
A GI Elbow changes the direction of a pipe, commonly at 45° or 90°, allowing smooth flow and proper system alignment.
Yes — they’re galvanized with zinc to prevent rust, making them ideal for indoor and outdoor plumbing systems.
TapMaster Kenya offers GI Elbows in sizes from ½″ to 2″, suitable for both domestic and industrial plumbing.
Yes. GI Elbows are suitable for water, air, gas, and even low-pressure steam pipelines.
Absolutely! We provide same-day delivery in Nairobi and nationwide shipping across all counties in Kenya.
Looking for reliable GI Elbows in Kenya?
Order directly from TapMaster Kenya — your trusted source for quality galvanized iron fittings.
🚚 Same-day delivery in Nairobi
🌍 Countrywide shipping available
📦 Bulk and retail orders welcome
🛒 Visit tapmaster.co.ke to place your order today.