What are plastic quick connect fittings? A plastic quick connect fitting is a durable fitting that is ideal for use in water applications. They are easy to install, removable and reusable.
In this blog post, we will discuss their best applications, as well as their features and benefits.
Plastic Quick Connect Fittings
Plastic quick connect fittings are manufactured from safe, non-toxic and lead-free materials. They are manufactured with US FDA approved materials, and are also tested and certified in accordance with ANSI/NSF-51 and 61-G standards. They are available in sizes 1/4” and 3/8”.
Plastic quick connect fittings use high quality materials like white acetal copolymer with stainless steel gripper rings and NBR o-rings. The white acetal copolymer is durable and resistant to fatigue and creep, while the NBR o-rings provide an instant leak proof connection.
Plastic quick connect fittings are also available with a polypropylene resin. Polypropylene may be required for special applications because it has excellent chemical resistance, cold endurance and has high tolerance to oxidizers.
Types of Applications
Plastic quick connect fittings are ideal for use in water systems, pneumatic systems, and food and beverage services. They work well for applications like point of use (POU) filtration systems, water dispensing systems, ice makers and refrigerators.
Features and Benefits
When it comes to plastic quick connect fittings, there are plenty of features and benefits.
Easy installation
First, plastic quick connect fittings are lightweight and easy to install. No crimp tools, adhesives or clamps are required. Plastic quick connect fittings are a quick and convenient assembly solution that saves both time and money. Simply push the tube into the fitting socket to complete the connection.
Reusable
Second, plastic quick connect fittings are removable and reusable. The unique oval shaped collet design provides an easy grip for assembling and dissembling without damaging the tubing or fittings. Plus, they do not require a special tool to disconnect. The tubing can be removed by disengaging the stainless steel gripper rings by compressing the oval shaped collet by hand.
No risk of flame
Lastly, plastic quick connect fittings are also great to use in hazardous locations. Since there’s no risk of flame or fire from a blowtorch, plastic quick connect fittings work well when there’s potential for fire or when insulation is present. The diffusion of low heat ensures a safe surface temperature.
Warnings
When working with plastic quick connect fittings, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
First, plastic quick connect fittings are not recommended for use with liquids other than water, food and beverage products. They are also not recommended for use with strong acids or repeated exposure to strong oxidizers. We recommend you contact the manufacturer for the published chemical compatibility data sheet.
Second, plastic quick connect fittings should also not be used in applications where ambient temperature or fluid temperature may exceed 65°C or 150°F. This may damage the fitting and cause malfunction, leaks or failure.
Lastly, only use P.T.F.E. tape to seal threaded connections. Do not use other liquid thread sealers.
Hopefully, you have learned something both interesting and useful about the applications, benefits and features of plastic quick connect fittings. Above all, plastic quick connect fittings are a durable, quick and convenient option that saves both time and money. Please feel free to refer to this blog post when working with plastic quick connect fittings.
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