Your Basic Guide to Parker Non-Spill Quick Couplings

Quick connections for high-pressure, hydraulic applications have evolved immensely over time to satisfy new processes and operational needs. As industries advance their capabilities, the demand grows for coupler capabilities. Today, couplers must ensure fluid handling applications meet both safety and regulatory standards while simultaneously provide optimized containment of a wide range of fluids that can have different operational conditions.

Operators have continually depended on reliable connections for a “non-spill” experience under the most extreme conditions, such as temperature or high pressure. Manufacturers saw this as an opportunity to introduce new and enhanced couplers to the market.

  Flush face valving delivers near-zero spillage

Couplings, specifically non-spill, are engineered to combat hydraulic leaks and spills with a unified design incorporating sophisticated components. For reference, the term “non-spill” regarding a coupling means a specific type of connector can reduce fluid spillage to near zero whenever a coupling is connected and disconnected. Designed initially as heavy-duty metal couplings for high-pressure, industrial applications, non-spill couplings have evolved into a variety of materials to complement a wide range of applications requiring minimal spillage and air inclusion.

The flush face design became a significant advancement in quick coupling architecture. A “no-drip” valve means no more than a coating of liquid will appear on the valves’ surface, establishing repeated dripless connections and disconnections for a cleaner, safer work environment. Also, inclusion, which represents the air put into the fluid system during each connection, is drastically reduced through a flush face valve. The benefits of near-zero spillage and air inclusion have become critical in many applications, from heavy-duty construction equipment to hydraulic hand tools and general industrial machinery.

  Parker’s non-spill quick couplings

Parker is the global leader in quick couplings, delivering a spill-free and lasting performance, with a wide range of non-spill coupling solutions to fit versatile fluid applications. The FEM Series, FET Series and 59 Series all provide minimal fluid loss and air inclusion, as well as chemical compatibility when necessary.

FEM series

This non-spill quick coupling satisfies the design and performance requirements set forth by the ISO 16028 International Standards for quick coupling interchangeability. Featuring a push-to-connect design, FEM Series delivers an extra level of security for simple connections without causing any joining, crimping or soldering materials, eliminating spillage and air inclusion during connecting and disconnecting.

In addition, Parker provides an optional FEC male nipple, which allows connect-under-pressure capabilities with the FEM female coupler. This option is designed for applications where residual pressure makes connection difficult.

FET series

The FET Series non-spill quick coupling, engineered for reliable performance with equipment experiencing powerful impulses, accommodates the most demanding hydraulic applications. Parker’s FET Series couplings connect under pressure at 6,000 psi and disconnect up to 2,500 psi in environments that desire the security of a threaded connection under residual pressure. These couplers are built to operate under high-impulse mobile circuits, including excavators, and oil and gas equipment, such as umbilical lines and mobile drill rigs. Constructed of high-grade materials and a stainless steel valve, the FET Series features a robust Brinell resistant design and plating for extended durability and corrosion resistance.

59 series

Ideal for use in high impulse applications with multiple high-pressure hydraulic lines, the 59 Series ensures consistent connections and disconnections under residual pressure. A powerful ACME thread utilizes a double start feature and allows a full connection to be completed in 2 – ½ turns, saving time and eliminating frustration. Its size and shape of the heavy-duty ACME thread make the coupling resistant to damage, easier to clean and ready for operational use.

An internal bearing between the collar and body eases resistance and minimizes the challenge of handling pressurized lines. In addition, the coupler and nipple have non-spill stainless steel valves and can be connected under pressure up to 5,000 psi and disconnected under a pressure of 2,500 psi.

 

Review our non-spill product pages for your specific applications. Or contact one of our product experts for more information or a price quote.

 

Contributed by Lori Aus, product sales manager, Quick Coupling Division, Parker Hannifin.

 

      Related Blog posts:

How to Choose the Right Quick Coupling

Three Key Benefits of Using Non-Spill Quick Couplings

Screw-to-Connect Couplings Make Hard Work Easier

 

 

 

Since the advent of the semi-automatic water conditioning control valve followed by the automatic control valve, a common weakness has been the brine tubing connections between the brine valve and the brine tank. This circuit functions in two ways and is exposed to both a vacuum during the brine draw cycle and water pressure during a refill. A loose-fitting at either of these locations would cause loss of vacuum and/or a water leak, neither of which is acceptable and the result is often an unscheduled service call.

 

Download our whitepaper to learn how to eliminate the challenges associated with the various types of brine tube connections.

 

Results of poor connections during brine draw

Brine is drawn from the brine tank when the control valve cycles to provide motive flow and pressure to the injector assembly (venturi) in the control valve while simultaneously opening the drain line to allow displacement of the accumulated hardness and metals from the resin bed during the service run.  An injector consists of a nozzle and throat. The injector is selected based on the size of the media tank square foot (ft2) surface area. A venturi combines a narrow tube called a nozzle that restricts the flow of water which increases the velocity and decreases the pressure of the water passing through it, creating a partial vacuum immediately after leaving the nozzle. As water passes through the injector nozzle, the high velocity creates a vacuum which draws the brine from the brine tank, mixing with the water as it enters the throat. The brine is mixed with the water to dilute the brine from 100% concentrated brine to a 30% concentration. This diluted brine is introduced into the resin bed where it releases the calcium and magnesium from the resin and flushes it to drain. Maintaining the proper mixture is very important to ensure optimal regeneration. If the brine draw is weak due to poor vacuum, the brine is diluted below 30% and the result is a partial regeneration and potential salty water to service after the regeneration cycle is complete. Further evidence of poor connections includes overflowing brine tank, where a complete loss of vacuum won’t permit brine draw. However, the brine refill cycle will add additional water to the brine tank which could result in an overflow condition. Different manufacturers offered what they thought was the best connector based on what was available at the time. Let’s look at some of the options that were available.

 

The different types of brine tube connections

Brass compression

Brass compression-style fittings were the most common and have been used for decades. In the early days, some valve manufacturers molded the 3/8” compression connection directly into the brass valve body produced at the foundry. The nuts, sleeves and tube supports were shipped with the valve to the assembler or were included with fully assembled softener/brine tank or cabinet style softeners. The brass compression-style connections are trusted for their dependable performance in virtually all conditions where temperatures range between 350 – 1200 F for domestic tap water applications. They also work very well for hot water softener applications where water temperatures can reach 1800 F. Attention to proper assembly is important because of the use of soft polyethylene or polypropylene tubing. Tube support is required to prevent distortion of the plastic tubing which guarantees effective gripping and a robust seal.

The connection is made by sliding the nut and sleeve onto the tubing, inserting the tube support into the plastic tube, inserting the tubing into the fitting until it’s bottomed on the seat, then tightening the nut until finger tight. The nut is then wrench-tightened with a specific number of wrench turns dictated by the specific fitting type and the size of the tubing. Based on their highly specific assembly instructions and the multiple components involved, brass compression-style fittings not only take time to assemble – around 40 seconds per connection – are labor-intensive - but also run the risk of being assembled incorrectly. For this reason, assemblers require some level of expertise when using this fitting type.

While brass compression fittings are viewed as highly dependable joint connections, with sealing performance that is second to none, higher labor costs are forcing manufacturers and assemblers to look for more cost-effective and less labor-intensive connection options.

Thermoplastic compression fittings

Plastic compression fittings have been used for over 40 years and vary in style and material composition. As with the brass compression-style fittings, tube support must be used with soft tubing. Plastic compression fittings are corrosion resistant and simple to install. The advantage is that there is no need to disassemble the fitting because all that is required is to cut the tubing square, insert tube support, insert into the fitting and hand tighten the ferrule nut to seal the connection. There is however a distinct disadvantage with these plastic fittings. They are prone to becoming loose with ambient temperature changes that coincide with seasonal weather patterns. Historically, it is necessary to retighten these plastic fittings to prevent the vacuum and water leaks previously mentioned.

Plastic Hose Barb Fittings

Plastic hose barb fittings are corrosion resistant and are not generally used for the brine valve connections. Typically, vinyl or polyurethane tubing or rubber hose is used with a hose clamp to ensure maximum grip and sealing power. Because vinyl or polyurethane or rubber hose is soft, it is subject to collapse during the vacuum phase of the brine draw cycle. Polyethylene tubing is not recommended because it will crack and leak.

Push-to-Connect Fittings

Push-to-Connect (PTC) plastic fittings for water service have been available since the mid-1980s. There are many companies that offer competitive products. Many of those products require a locking clip where a vacuum service is required to prevent the collet from retracting which allows the entrance of air. To combat this problem, some competitive products use a double “O”- Ring seal to solve vacuum-loss. The double “O”- Ring makes it harder to insert the tubing and unless full insertion depth is achieved by engaging both “O”- Rings, connection failure may result. Additionally, debris entrapment between the “O” – Rings may promote bacterial growth in the fluid stream. The problem of collet retraction may persist during vacuum service and therefore, a clocking clip may be required to prevent seal loss during vacuum.

 

An innovative alternative

Parker LIQUIfit fittings and one-piece cartridges feature a D-Seal that maintains a bubble-tight seal around the tubing to prevent liquid by-pass. The stainless-steel grab ring is fixed to the cartridge body which prevents the tubing from “pumping” or retracting during vacuum up to 28 inches of mercury (Hg) at room temperature without the need of a retaining clip.

The compact cartridge design allows machining or molding of a cavity for the cartridge which enables automation of manufacturing processes, reduces the labor cost of assembly, reduces leak paths, and gives your product or equipment a new, clean profile. By eliminating the need for threaded connections, tube connections are made quick and easy without the need or use of tools.

With Parker LIQUIfit, gone are virtually all labor costs associated with compression-style fittings and assembly time can be reduced by as much as 90%. Seasonal retightening of the plastic compression nuts due to temperature variations is no longer a concern. Hose clamps are no longer needed when using polyethylene tubing, and locking clips aren’t necessary to prevent retracting collets. LIQUIfit fittings and one-piece cartridges solve the challenges associated with other styles of brine tube connections and improve the integrity and reliability of your component, product, or system.

 

Download our whitepaper to learn more about the LIQUIfit alternative for water applications where no fluid contamination occurs, and environmental protection is guaranteed.

 

Attending WQA Convention and Exposition?

Visit us at WQA April 1-3, booth 638 to learn how Parker is improving operational efficiency and reducing costs for the commercial and residential water treatment market. The WQA Convention has been the signature event of the water treatment industry, connecting dealers, manufacturers, and consultants with the latest trends, research, education, and networking opportunities.

 

Post contributed by Gary Battenberg, technical support and systems design specialist with the Fluid System Connectors Division of Parker Hannifin. He has 35 years of experience in the fields of domestic, commercial, industrial, high-purity and sterile water treatment processes.

 

 

 

Related, helpful content for you:

Choosing the Right Connector, Tubing and Accessories for Your Application - Part 1

10 Steps to Cost Effective & Safe Installation of Instrumentation Tube and Fittings Systems. Part 2

Assembly Instructions for Ensuring Leak-Free O-ring Face Seal Fittings

 

 

Vibrations might be inherent for industrial machinery, but in an automotive production plant, this could mean faulty products coming down the assembly line, leading to costly rework translating into downtime and delays in delivery. Whether you’re an automotive OEM or a Tier 1/Tier 2 Supplier, machine health is a huge deal. 

Imagine the advantage of discovering a deteriorating process quality before real problems occur. Maintenance engineers, whose essential job is to prevent any disruption in the manufacturing process, could better plan the replacement timeline and make the necessary workarounds until new equipment is installed.

 

The Parker solution

To stay ahead of machine vibration and other issues, automotive factory engineers have turned to an early-warning system developed by Parker: SensoNODE™ Gold Sensors and Voice of the Machine™ software. This uninterrupted, real-time condition monitoring technology can be implemented throughout automotive production facilities to automate measurement taking and alert of trending situations. An additional advantage is the elimination of the tedious manual review of each device, freeing up the engineering team to attend to other tasks.

Parker’s robust automotive production machine monitoring system provides data that extends well beyond vibration. SensoNODE Gold Sensors monitor and transmit pressure changes, temperature, humidity, flow, current, displacement and analog signals—all to any internet-connected device via the cloud or localized edge applications. This Internet of Things (IoT) enabled solution allows plant managers to easily monitor process parameters that reveal changes in machine health as they develop, giving them the time and information needed to prevent failures.

  The heart of the system

Parker’s Voice of the Machine condition monitoring software provides machine alerts, status, and analytics in real-time on your desktop. The software can publish data to the cloud or most edge devices. The interface is simple to connect to the sensors, and measurements are displayed in a highly readable style. Users can customize dashboards and alarms. In only one click, data is sent via a .csv file to be shared from the cloud or via FTP on the edge.

 

Multi-department automotive plant monitoring

Pressure, level, temperature and other condition monitoring sensors can (and should) be implemented throughout automotive production facilities to automate measurement taking. They do so safely as well as providing early warnings of deteriorating process quality. Wherever a vital production process is taking place, SensoNODE Gold Sensors can ensure machines are operating at an optimum level. 

Metal forming and stamping

• Monitoring fluid quality or ISO count can alert to declining oil quality before it reaches an unacceptable condition

• Tracking hydraulic fluid temperatures can prevent overheating conditions by allowing maintenance engineers to identify and troubleshoot changes earlier

• Monitoring hydraulic pressures alert to worrisome changes known to precede faulty manufacturing operations

Material handling, assembly, and conveyance

• Monitoring humidity in pneumatic lines prevents rusting, clogging and damage to equipment, as well as product defects

• Tracking pneumatic system pressures help keep power tools operating at peak efficiency by indicating pressure drops 

• Observing motor temperatures to indicate the need to troubleshoot mechanical components of conveyance systems

Paint booths and paint lines

• Gauging filter performance and air quality

• Indicating the presence of clogs sooner by monitoring differential pressures of multi-stage filtration processes

• Monitoring air temperature and humidity within paint booths alert to preserve finish quality and keep drying times consistent

Additional automotive plant applications

• Injection molding temperatures and fluid level

• Adhesion system temperatures and pressures

• Plating operation parameters and chemistries

• Die casting gas detection

• Heat treating temperatures and chemistries

• Vacuum and cooling system efficiency

  Automotive success story

Vibration in production assets such as robots is usually the result of worn gears or loose joints. A little lubrication or a mechanical tweak here and there can be a temporary fix, but they only delay the inevitable—a complete replacement of the affected machinery. Regular inspection of these huge machines requires a labor-intensive, time-consuming process to discover and address any issues before they become a real threat to production.

Recently, one manufacturer of trucks and SUVs that relies on robotics throughout the plant, looked to eliminate the inefficiencies related to the manual inspection. They called on Parker for a solution.

SensoNODE Vibration Sensors were placed on the joints of both new and older robots, recording vibration signatures in real-time. Measurements were compared on good and bad robots, establishing a threshold of when to service or replace a robot. Employing the Voice of the Machine software provided technicians with alerts of when thresholds were exceeded.

SensoNODE Sensors and Voice of the Machine Software provide this manufacturer with the ability to monitor asset conditions and view real-time data to diagnose issues before spiraling into a production catastrophe.

This is just one of many successful automotive industry installations Parker has performed. Maybe it’s time for your plant to get on board with this innovative technology.

For additional information on Parker’s IoT-based condition monitoring solution, read the Automotive Industry case study.

 

Contributed by Westin Siemsglusz, IoT market sales manager, Parker Hannifin

 

 

 

 

 

Related articles:

How Condition Monitoring Can Transform the Food and Beverage Industry

5 Considerations Before Using Condition Monitoring on the Plant Floor

Cloud-based Solutions for Monitoring Machine Performance