For utmost efficiency, couplers must ensure fluid handling applications meet both safety and regulatory standards while delivering optimised containment of a wide range of fluids that can have different operational conditions.
Hydraulic applications have evolved significantly in response to new processes and operational needs. As industries advance their capabilities, the demand grows for coupler capabilities.
Operators have long depended on reliable connections for a “non-spill” experience under the most extreme conditions, such as extreme temperature or high pressure.
Manufacturers saw this as an opportunity to introduce new and enhanced couplers to the market.
Parker Hannifin Australia Fluid Connector Group Product Manager Alan Pearce explains that these advancements have included the evolution of non-spill couplings.
Also known as dry break, flat face or flush face couplings, Alan said there are reasons to evaluate these couplings for inclusion in your hydraulic applications.
- Delivers near-zero spillage
“Non-spill couplings are engineered to combat hydraulic leaks and spills with a unified design incorporating sophisticated components,” Alan said.
“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.”
- Reduces air inclusion and system contamination
Hydraulic equipment relies on fluid system integrity to effectively transmit power for an instant, accurate response, and reliable performance.
Alan said that contamination and the loss of performance transpire when debris and air work their way into the hydraulic fluid.
“It’s common for this to occur when dirt accumulates on the exposed surface of a traditional poppet valve tip when disconnected,” he said.
“Then, when the quick coupling is reconnected, air and contamination are pushed into the system fluid as the poppet valves open. The air and contamination can cause a loss of horsepower, temperate performance abnormalities and various detrimental effects.
“The flush face valves of non-spill quick couplings do not provide surfaces or areas for dirt to accumulate and collect.
“In environments where dirt is present, the smooth flat surface of the coupling end can be easily and quickly wiped clean.
“Additionally, non-spill valves keep air inclusion to a minimum because the flat-faced surface does not trap air pockets as fluid lines are reconnected.”
- Better for the environment
Fluid leaks and spills have the potential to cause significant environmental issues. If contamination were to occur, organisations would be responsible for damage to ecosystems and wildlife, resulting in high cleanup costs and federal penalties.
“Even what looks like a small leakage can sometimes leave lasting effects on our precious planet. Non-spill quick disconnects keep fluids contained and their environmental impact to a minimum,” Alan said.
Parker Hannifin has released a series of coupling units which suit all types of equipment.
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, Alan said the FEM Series delivers an extra level of security for simple connections, during connecting and disconnecting.
The FEM Series couplings were recently redesigned to add additional functionality and capabilities.
The updates include:
• Increased pressure rating to 5000 psi
• Improved Sleeve-Lok design now standard
• Improved corrosion resistance with zinc nickel plating
FEM Series features include:
• Designed for use with construction, utility, and agricultural equipment
• Meets or exceeds the design and performance requirements of ISO 16028 standard
• Compact size
• Push-to-connect function for ease of use
• Steel body material with zinc nickel plating • Polyurethane interface seals
FET Series
The FET Series non-spill quick coupling, engineered for reliable performance with equipment experiencing powerful impulses, accommodates the most demanding hydraulic applications.
“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,” Alan said.
“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.”
FF Series
These couplings allow for convenient single- hand operation and are designed with an additional safety ring that prevents unintentional disconnection.
Alan said they are ideal for use in markets such as agriculture, automotive, oil and gas, industrial, machine tooling, material handling, mobile equipment, and construction.
The FF Series ensures no oil loss during disconnection and no air inclusion during connection. The coupling system is available with pressure eliminator – connection is possible under static/residual pressure up to working pressure.
Features include:
• Flush, non-spill valving
• Hardened steel sleeves and nipple bodies
• Locking sleeve
• Blow-out resistant seal
• Connect-under-pressure FC nipple option.
Parker Hannifin Non-Spill Couplers are available through ENZED’s nationwide network of mobile Hose Doctors and Service Centres. Contact 131362 to learn more.