Connecting For Success

The choice of connection type depends on a variety of considerations.

By Andy Hass, Business Unit Manager, Industrial Markets, Colder Products Co

Designers of products that incorporate fluid transfer face many challenges when it comes to connecting hoses and tubing efficiently and cost effectively. While all fluid transfer lines found on motorcycles, inkjet printers, medical devices, or portable hydration units need a connection device such as a coupling or fitting, the requirements for each can differ dramatically.

Consequently, the choice of connection type depends on a variety of considerations, including the required frequency of connection/disconnection, servicing and safety needs, and user expertise. With so many determining factors, what is the best approach to choosing the right solution for a specific project? First, let's define couplings and fittings.

Couplings vs Fittings and Valves

A fitting is a simple device used most often as a permanent connection for hoses or tubing. Fittings are typically used with threaded or hose barb connections. Tools are often required to install and remove fittings.

Instant fittings are also used as a permanent connection, but do not require tools for installation of the tubing. It is important to note, however, that most fittings do not stop flow when disconnected. In order to regulate or stop flow with a fitting, a separate valve must be used. (Pictured, a quick disconnect coupling, fitting, instant fitting, ball valve.)

Couplings are devices used to quickly connect and disconnect tubing or hoses. They may incorporate automatic shutoff valves to stop flow when disconnected. Designed for repeated connection and disconnection cycles, standard couplings -- with or without valves -- can be connected and disconnected without the use of tools. Couplings with non-spill shutoff valves provide the added security of virtually drip-free connection and disconnection.

Frequency of Connection

The first question to ask at the start of the selection process is how often the fluid line will be disconnected during equipment use. If the assembly or use of the product would benefit from repeated connections and disconnections, a coupling should be considered. Fittings are a popular choice for fluid lines that need to be connected once during the assembly process and do not require the disconnection of equipment or parts at any point during development or use.

Serviceability

Next, consider the speed of the connection. If machinery needs to be assembled quickly, and includes fluid lines that must be disconnected for servicing or repair, then a coupling is the recommended choice.

Equipment maintenance and repair contribute to overall process downtime. Couplings help minimize service-related downtime by providing quick and easy access to fluid lines that may need to be disconnected during repair processes. Additionally, couplings with integrated valves save time by eliminating spill cleanup and reducing the need to purge air from the fluid lines.

Fittings can take a longer time to disengage and reinstall, but may be the connection of choice if disconnections are not time sensitive.

User Expertise

Take into account user expertise and convenience. A well-trained technician or operator who regularly uses tools on the job can work capably with fittings, making repeated connections and cutting tubing easily and accurately. Untrained users of medical, printing, or food service equipment require less training and need fewer service calls when making quick disconnections with couplings.

Safety

Evaluate the safety requirements of the final product -- this includes both user and equipment safety. Fluid handling of caustic chemicals or harmful gases can be tricky if fittings need to be accessed. Even for a fitting installed with a valve, tools are usually required to disconnect and then reconnect. This is quite risky for a user dealing with dangerous media that may spill if the valve and fitting are separated.

Couplings designed with integrated shutoff valves can virtually eliminate leakage upon disconnection, thereby minimizing user risk and "spills." Non-spill couplings also provide safety when drips or spillage could damage critical equipment. For example, in liquid cooling of electronics a single drop could compromise crucial equipment and data. Therefore, non-spill couplings would be best in that application.

Additional Options

Fluid connections can also be designed with a variety of other special features that enhance security and safety. Couplings offer "keying" capabilities in applications where it is critical that multiple fluid or gas lines are not cross-connected. Fittings and couplings are both available in colored options to assist in quickly identifying fluid lines. Couplings can also incorporate RFID technology to provide an even greater level of security and create more intelligent systems.

Cost

Fittings are more basic in design and function, so cost is generally lower compared to couplings. Their simplicity can make them a cost-effective connectivity solution in many applications.

Couplings, on the other hand, with their added features, can bring increased overall value to an operation or user. Innovative coupling suppliers can offer cost-effective solutions that make operations cleaner, simpler, safer, and even smarter.

Aligning with the Right Supplier

In addition to the above considerations, before making a final connection selection, consult with a supplier about detailed specifications such as material, size, and termination types. Review factors such as media compatibility and flow requirements, space challenges, and mounting needs.

While there are various options to choose from, a knowledgeable supplier will work with you in the early design stages to ensure you specify the optimum connection for your application.

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