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A Quick Guide To Quick Disconnects




Hydraulic quick couplings are the fittings that connect the hose to the rest of the plumbing and allow liquids to flow when the male and female sides are locked together. They are attached to the ends of the hose and are designed to be easily attached or removed by hand, but it is nearly impossible for the fluid inside the hose to knock them off. Often called quick connects, or quick disconnects, these fittings allow the user to quickly connect or disconnect a hose from the system. Quick couplings can also help to prevent fluid from leaking even when the hose is disconnected through the use of check valves that block the exit. These hydraulic couplings can be extremely valuable for any industry that frequently uses hydraulic hoses by providing a fast and safe way to connect and disconnect from the plumbing.

How To Select a Quick Coupling?

There are some factors you should consider before buying a quick-connect coupler, such as the size of the hose system, the flow capacity, and how much leaking or corrosion is acceptable. A general rule of thumb is that the larger the coupler, the more fluid that can pass through it. However, this isn’t always true. Be sure to check the stats on the quick disconnect before purchase to ensure it will match your specific needs. For example, a ¼ inch quick coupling may only flow 3 gpm, while the hose itself may flow double that amount. This could cause your system to output significantly less fluid or at a much lower pressure than expected.

What Size Do I Need?

Another thing to consider when it comes to choosing the right quick disconnect hydraulic fittings is how much you are willing to spend for a more- or less-sophisticated coupling. Flat-face couplings have a more complicated design than ball-check or poppet-style disconnects. A flat-face coupler has a series of interlocking faces that help to prevent leaks and offer a wider flowpath for fluids.

What Safety Regulations Do I Need To Meet?

If you are moving heated liquids or a potentially hazardous chemical, then even a few drops of leakage when disconnecting the hose might not be acceptable. More advanced disconnects, such as flat-face disconnects, tend to leak less than other types. Be sure to check out the material the fitting is made from as well; if corrosion or wear is a concern, then you will need a more heavy-duty coupling. Some couplers are made from more durable materials or have a smoother fit, which reduces corrosion or contamination in the female end’s open face. Most flat-face couplings also feature a twist lock, which prevents accidental disconnects should an object bump into the hose sleeve. No matter which type of connection you use for your hoses, make sure they adequately meet your needs to provide a safe working environment for your employees and coworkers.

What Is the Hose Transporting?

Here at Hose and Fitting Supply, we offer two primary types of quick disconnect: hydraulic disconnects and pneumatic disconnects. Hydraulic hoses transport liquids under pressure, while pneumatic hoses are used to transport gasses. The needs of each are very different, since gasses tend to be more easily compressed than fluids. Pneumatic quick disconnects are designed to cut off the flow of air as soon as they're disconnected. Both pneumatic and hydraulic couplers tend to be made of the same materials, such as brass, stainless steel, and coated carbon steel; however, the strength and internal mechanisms for each can be vastly different. Always be sure to get the right quick disconnect for the job.