What is a Male Connector? Understanding Gender in Industrial Machining and Piping

By CRC Wellhead Staff | January 28, 2026

In the world of industrial piping and wellhead maintenance, terminology can sometimes feel like a second language. One of the most fundamental terms you will encounter is the “male connector.” Whether you are looking at a small hydraulic fitting or a massive 7 1/16″ API 6A component, understanding how these parts interface is critical for system safety and Maximum Performance.

So, what is a male connector, and why does the distinction matter in high-pressure environments?

Defining the Male Connector

In mechanical engineering, “gender” is used to describe how two parts fit together.

A male connector is any part that features external threads, pins, or protrusions designed to be inserted into a corresponding “female” component. Think of a standard bolt: because the threads are on the outside, it is a male fastener.

Key Characteristics:

  • External Threads: The most common feature, designed to screw into a female bore.

  • The “Inserter”: In any connection, the male piece is the one being “plugged in.”

  • Exposed Sealing Surfaces: Because the threads or pins are on the outside, they are often more susceptible to damage during transport, which is why precision machining and protective caps are essential.

Beyond the Basics: Male Pins in the Wellhead

While a hardware store might sell small brass male connectors, the industrial sector—specifically wellhead and pressure control—requires something much more robust.

At CRC Wellhead Supply, we specialize in a heavy-duty version of the male connector known as the Male Pin.

The API 7 1/16″ Male Pin

In a wellhead assembly, a male pin is a specialized adapter. It features a large API flange on one end (to bolt onto a valve or casing head) and a male threaded connection on the other.

Product Highlight: Our API Male Pins are designed for serious pressure. We offer 7 1/16″ pins in 2,000, 3,000, and 5,000 psi ratings to ensure your transition from flange to tubing is secure.

Common End Connections for Male Pins

Not all male connectors use the same thread profile. Depending on the application, the “male” end of the pin will vary:

  • EUE (External Upset End): These are high-strength threads used primarily for tubing strings. We provide male pins in 2 3/8″, 2 7/8″, and 3 ½” EUE sizes.

  • Line Pipe: Used for standard flow line connections where EUE strength isn’t required.

  • NPT (National Pipe Thread): Common in lower-pressure auxiliary lines.

Precision Machining for Your Custom Quote

When you are dealing with 5,000 psi, a “close enough” fit is a failure waiting to happen. Our Canadian Quality machining ensures that every male connector we quote is built to the highest standard.

  • 4 Decades of Expertise: Our Edmonton machine shop has been perfecting high-performance threads since 1980.

  • 3,000 lb Capacity: We quote everything from small connectors to massive Custom Machined Industrial Parts up to 3 feet in diameter.

  • API Q1 & 6A Certified: Every quote includes the peace of mind that comes with certified safety and full material traceability.

Get Your Quote Today

Understanding what is a male connector is the first step; getting the right one on-site is the second. Whether you need a standard transition or a custom-machined solution for obsolete equipment, CRC Wellhead Supply is ready to help.

Need pricing for your next project? Click Here to Request a Quote on our API Male Pins or any custom machining requirement. Our team in Edmonton is ready to provide the precision you need for your North American operations.

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