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What is the difference between BSPP, BSPT and R threads?

16 February 2026 by
What is the difference between BSPP, BSPT and R threads?
M+B Fluid Technology GmbH, Andreas Viereck

The main difference between BSPP and BSPT threads lies in their shape and sealing method: BSPP (British Standard Pipe Parallel) is a parallel (cylindrical) thread that requires an additional seal such as an O-ring or a sealing compound for sealing. BSPT (British Standard Pipe Tapered) is a tapered (conical) thread that seals itself due to its shape and does not require additional sealing elements. 

BSPP(British Standard Pipe Parallel)

  • Shape:Cylindrical/Parallel.
  • Designation:Is often referred to by the letter G.
  • Sealing:Creates a purely mechanical connection and requires an additional sealing medium, such as a bonded ring or sealing tape, to create a tight connection.
  • Application:Is commonly used in applications where a simple mechanical connection is desired and the seal is applied separately.

BSPT(British Standard Pipe Tapered)

  • Shape:
    Tapered/Conical.
  • Designation:
    Corresponds to the taperedexternal thread Rand the cylindrical internal thread Rp according to ISO 7/1.
  • Sealing:
    The taper of the thread allows for a self-sealing connection by pressing the thread flanks together.
  • Application:
    Ideal for industrial applications, especially for water treatment systems where leakage at the connection must be minimised.

Summary Table 

Feature

BSPP (Parallel)

BSPT (Tapered)

Shape

Cylindrical

Conical

Sealing

Requires additional sealing compound

Self-sealing

ISO Standard

ISO 228

ISO 7/1

Marking

G

R (External thread), Rp (Internal thread)

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