Frequently Asked Questions
Product FAQ's

Can the NurailŪ aluminum fittings be used with steel and stainless steel pipe?

Although most aluminum alloys will corrode when combined with a dissimilar metal (i.e. steel, black iron, stainless steel), the aluminum/magnesium alloy 535 which Hollaender uses to manufacture all cast fittings is the most corrosive resistant casting alloy available and can be used with any type of metal.

Have NurailŪ Fittings been tested in corrosive environments?

Yes, NurailŪ standard fittings have been tested for 1000 hrs. of salt spray (per ASTM B117 specifications) after which the set screws could still be removed and retightened. In addition, NurailŪ fittings' corrosion resistance to Hydrazine Fuel has also been tested by the United States Air Force prior to the products' use at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and the Kennedy Space Center. Not only have our products been tested in the laboratory, but they have also stood the test of time for over forty years in some of the most corrosive environments including: chemical plants, offshore oil rigs, waste water treatment plants, pulp & paper mills, etc.

If I have an extremely corrosive environment, are there any additional coatings or features that are available for the fittings to insure that the installation performs and continues to look good for a long time?

The standard material is highly corrosive resistant, however, for the most extreme environments, we recommend that the fittings be anodized and that stainless steel set screws be used. The anodizing process creates a coating, which is not only harder and more corrosive resistant than the base metal, but also provides significant resistance to staining.

Should the fittings be used in a chlorine rich environment?

No, the chlorine aggressively attacks the aluminum, which can result in significant deterioration of our product. Our recommendation would be to use reinforced fiberglass railing in this environment.

What does IPS mean?

IPS stands for "Iron Pipe Size" - A standard which was originally developed for fluid transfer has also become the standard for handrail systems, both steel and aluminum.

What wall thickness should be used with NurailŪ fittings?

The actual wall thickness you select will depend on the type of system you are assembling, however, the wall thickness should never be less than the minimums listed below.

Steel Pipe - Schedule 40
Aluminum - Schedule 40

What pipe materials can I use with NurailŪ fittings?

Any metal pipe (including galvanized steel, stainless, black iron, aluminum, etc.) can be used with our slip-on fittings as long as it is sized properly (see above). Plastic, FRP and thin wall sleeve should never be used unless a reinforcing dowel is also used inside the pipe.

Billing & Shipping FAQ's

How long does it take to process and ship orders?

All orders received Monday thru Friday prior to 2:30PM EST will be processed and shipped the same business day. Orders received after 2:30PM are not guaranteed for same day delivery and will be processed the next business day. Out of stock items will ship as soon as possible.

What methods of shipping are available?

We offer all standard UPS shipping options including air services. Local delivery across Massachusetts is available as is local pickup from our Cambridge, MA warehouse. If you wish to change your shipping method, please call us at 1-800-METPIPE. Please have your order number ready.

How do I track my packages that have been shipped?

As soon as the order is shipped you will receive an e-mail with your UPS tracking number. You can track your package online at www.ups.com.

Do you ship internationally?

Arrangements can be made to ship internationally. Please call us at 1-800-METPIPE.

What is the delivery time for orders?

Orders are shipped from Cambridge, Massachusetts (02142). Regular ground shipments to the lower 48 states usually take from 1 to 6 business days depending on your location.

How does the 'Free Shipping on orders over $500' work?

Nurail.com offers free UPS Ground shipping on orders with fittings totaling over $500.00 in the United States only. Pipe is not eligible for the free shipping promotion. This offer is valid on orders placed online only and does not apply to orders placed over the phone. This offer may not be combined with any other discount.

How can we pay for our order?

For online orders, we accept: Visa, Mastercard and American Express through PayPal. For phone-in orders, we accept: Visa, Mastercard, American Express and UPS COD (check on delivery).

What is your return policy?

Returns are subject to a 20% handling/restocking charge. Orders with fabricated pipe are not eligible for return. Please call us at 1-800-METPIPE to speak with a representative about initiating a return.

What is your policy on Sales Tax?

Our order form will apply a 6.25% sales tax to any order that is being shipped within the state of Massachusetts. Out of state orders will not be applied tax.

Is the inventory level on your website real-time?

Inventory levels are updated automatically every 60 minutes.

How quickly do you respond to e-mail?

We will attempt to answer your e-mail within 24 hours during normal business days. Incoming e-mail from the weekend will be answered on the next business day. If your inquiry is a high priority, please call us at 1-800-METPIPE.