TPi January 2008

f i t t ings feature on . . .

High-pressure ‘push-fit’ fluid connections for larger bore sizes

Parker Instrumentation, UK, has extended the applications potential of its ‘push-fit’ fluid connectors for high- pressure industrial applications. Eight new variants allow the 20,000 psi (1,379 bar) rated connector to be used on larger metric and imperial tubing sizes of 14, 16, 18, 20, 22 and 25mm, 3 / 4 " and 1", making it suitable for use in new areas such as high pressure hydraulic systems, steam and gas services and supply lines in factories, plants, power stations and ships, and high performance test equipment. Assembled by means of a simple push- fit operation, the Phastite connectors provide permanent connections for high- pressure fluid systems. For permanent

connections at these elevated pressures, system builders would typically use either welded or ‘cone and thread’ style fittings, which are time consuming and expensive to install. Compared with these products, the company claims that Phastite connectors can reduce installation costs by a factor of 90% or greater.

Phastite – Parker Instrumentation’s tube fitting for permanent and high pressure connection applications p

This operation is performed by a simple hydraulic tool requiring no skill to use, and takes only a few seconds. This assembly approach contrasts with the requirement to perform a 360° weld around the circumference of a tube, an operation requiring skill, consumables, expensive equipment, and up to 10 minutes of time. It also avoids the coning and threading of a tube end to prepare it for use in a special screw- together fitting. Phastite connectors incorporate a sealing system based on a collar that slides along an angled body, in the process compressing a number of circular profiles into the tubing. At the end of the short travel is a vertical face that provides confirmation of correct assembly. The multiple profiles mean that less pressure is applied at each sealing point than a traditional fitting, which allows Phastite to be used with thin wall tubing – a further benefit when compared with cone and thread fittings (which require more expensive, thicker wall tubing in order to allow for the threading and coning). In addition to being faster and easier to assemble, the high degree of control over make up that the tooling imposes assures users of right-first-time assembly. This is not the case with welded and cone and thread fittings, where many users expect a certain degree of rework. When used to replace a welded fitting, the Phastite connector also eliminates any need for a ‘hot work permit’, another equipment building expense faced by many organisations.

Phastite employs a compression assembly principle using a novel form of toothed profile to make the seal. The connectors are supplied as one-piece components. To make a joint, all that is required is to insert the tube, then push the collar along the connector body until it reaches a dead stop.

Foolproof testing in seconds WEH GmbH, Germany, manufactures a wide range of products for testing general fuel system components, cooling system components, climate control systems, steering and suspension systems and brake system components.

Engine manufacturers use WEH connectors to provide fast, reliable leak free connections that deliver fuel, circulate cooling fluid and oil.

Safety features such as an optional integral stop valve of the WEH TW800 and TW850 connectors automatically shut off fuel flow when disconnected. This safety feature not only helps to eliminate the hazards of split fuel, but also keeps the test area clean.

The WEH TW17 and TW18 Series connectors are suitable for threaded connections. The split collets design quickly and securely grips the thread, making an instant seal. Manual squeeze lever or pneumatic actuation provides a variety of operating choices. For automated sealing applications, or for sealing on ports with moulded or cast finish, the large elastomer seal on the FI and FE series provides

Engine block testing with WEH’s TW800 connector p

rugged reliability for leak free production testing. The large elastomer seal conforms to the rough surface seal, to seal up to 35 bar when fixed in place.

WEH’s product line includes quick connectors for pressure, function and leak testing, quick connectors for filling of gases and refrigerants, check valves, complete filling rigs and gas mixing plants.

WEH GmbH – Germany sales@weh.com • www.weh.com

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Tube Products International January 2008

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