How to Distinguish JIC and AN fittings

Figure 1: An example of a AN fitting (up), and a JIC fitting (down)

Both JIC and AN fittings look similar and perform similar functions, yet they differ significantly in their respective uses and specifications. What are the differences between the two standards?

AN and JIC (SAE J514 standard) both have a 37° flare connection on the male and female sides of the fitting and straight threads. A seal is achieved by threading in the JIC male flared connection with the female coned connection.

JIC stands for the Joint Industries Council, and AN stands for Air Force – Navy Aeronautical Design Standards. Army-Navy fittings first made their appearance around the second world war and have been designed to be used in U.S. military aviation applications. In contrast, JIC fittings are used primarily in industries such as agriculture; these are now often referred to as SAE J514 Flare fittings. We look at the differences between the two and how you can choose the best fittings for your application.