Assessing the Application
Understanding your application is the key to proper selection of a connection. Use the following checklist to simplify your selection.
Temperature
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Know your minimum and maximum temperature range. Standard temperature tolerances range from -40° F to 200° F depending on connection material. |
Pressure
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What is the maximum pressure your connection will need to withstand during operation? Quick disconnects rated to 250 psi will handle most low pressure applications. |
Media
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The viscosity and corrosiveness of the fluid going through the connection needs to be considered. Make sure the media is chemically compatible with ALL coupling materials - including the seals or "O-rings." |
Shutoff Options
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Do you need automatic or integral shutoff valves? Shutoff options are single, double and non-spill. |
Flow
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What are your required gallons per minute (GPM) and pressure drop? Be sure to allow for the effect of shutoff valves and tubing connections on your calculations. |
Tubing
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What size tubing, both inner and outer diameter, are you using? Double check media compatibility. |
Tubing Connections
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Type: Hose barb, compression fittings, and push-to-connect are the most common termination styles. Size: You will need to know ID for hose barbs, OD for push-in-fittings, and tube ID and OD for compression. |
Mounting Options
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How is the connection going to be configured into your application? Common mounting options include pipe thread, panel mount, in-line or elbow. |
Special Requirements
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Sterilization, NSF listed, USP Class VI approved materials, special packaging, color coding, keying, lot traceability, etc. |