Maintenance Technician Practice Test 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The correct answer is the union, as it is specifically designed to provide an easy way to connect and disconnect piping systems without needing to cut the pipes. A union consists of three pieces: two identical end pieces that attach to the piping and a center piece that can be unscrewed. This allows for quick access to the piping system for maintenance, inspection, or repair, facilitating the process without needing special tools or altering the existing pipe structure.

In contrast, an elbow connects two pieces of piping at an angle, which is beneficial for redirecting flow but does not provide any means for easy disassembly. A tee allows for branching pipes but also does not offer a straightforward means of disconnection for maintenance purposes. Couplings serve to join two sections of pipe together permanently and typically require cutting the pipe for removal, making maintenance less convenient compared to the flexibility that unions provide.