Pneumatic fittings are used in compressed air installations. One of its most important elements are pneumatic quick connectors (also known as pneumatic quick connectors). The pneumatic quick connector is an extremely practical, simple and convenient solution, used in various industries. It is part of many machines, pressure devices, pneumatic tools and dental and medical equipment. Find out what exactly a pneumatic quick connector is, how it works, its main types and key applications.
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What is a pneumatic quick connector?
A pneumatic quick connector is a special type of connector. It is commonly used in pneumatics, where it is used for simple and quick connection and disconnection of pressurized lines, pipes and pneumatic hoses. It allows you to achieve safe, tight and stable connections in a short time, without any effort or use of specialized tools, significantly speeding up and increasing the convenience of the installer's work. It enables the effective flow of compressed air, gas, water, fuels and mineral oils - without the risk of medium leakage. It is worth knowing that the pneumatic quick connector also has other names, such as: pneumatic quick connector, pneumatic connector or pneumatic connector. They are used interchangeably by manufacturers, distributors, sellers and users themselves.
The use of quick connectors in pneumatics
As we mentioned earlier, pneumatic connectors are extremely universal elements. They are widely used in the machinery, food, pharmaceutical, chemical, medical, dental and cosmetic industries, construction, robotics, automotive, manufacturing and agriculture. They are used primarily in installations ensuring air flow (especially compressed air). Compressed air is necessary for the operation of, among others: actuators and valves.
Quick connectors often complement pneumatic distributor sockets in order to facilitate the connection of pneumatic hoses and thus make it easier to configure the installation. Pneumatic quick connectors are also the basic elements of compressor equipment as a source of compressed air to which pneumatic lines and spiral hoses are connected. Each spiral pneumatic hose has a pneumatic quick connector, ensuring trouble-free connection of pneumatic devices and tools such as wrenches, knives, pumps, paint guns, heads, screwdrivers, screw feeders, sprayers, seeders, etc.
Pneumatic quick connectors are used wherever absolute sealing is required because there is a risk of the medium leaking to the outside, and it is expensive or dangerous to humans or the natural environment, e.g. toxic. Quick connectors effectively prevent accidental disconnection of elements.
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How do pneumatic quick connectors work?
High-quality pneumatic quick connectors have a simple but reliable connection mechanism. They allow you to connect and disconnect cables without using any tools. They work simply on the clamp principle. You insert the end of the cable/hose into the quick connector and the clamping mechanism (lock) will work automatically, ensuring a tight connection. A non-return valve, present in most quick coupling models, prevents dangerous leaks. When the quick connector is disconnected, the socket closes automatically, so part of the system remains pressurized.
The mechanism of operation varies depending on the type of quick connectors selected. In this respect, the following can be distinguished:
- quick connectors with one-sided cut-off of the air/other medium supply - after disconnection, from the socket side, the medium is blocked, the valve is closed and opens only after inserting the plug into the socket;
- quick connectors with double-sided cut-off of the air supply / other medium - the socket and the stub pipe are equipped with valves, which are opened by connecting the socket and the plug (the so-called "needle" is responsible for opening the valve in the stub pipe).
The connector enables precise pressure and plays a protective role. The specially profiled connector tip makes it easier to push the hose into the connector. Cable ties provide additional protection against disconnection.
What types of pneumatic quick connectors are there?
There are many types of pneumatic quick connectors. The basic division into single-side shut-off and double-side shut-off relates to their functionality, and both variants are described in the paragraph above. A popular division of pneumatic quick connectors is based on the method of connection to the installation, including the type of thread. You can choose from threaded connectors (with external thread or internal thread) and connectors with a hose connector.
An important parameter for every installer is the value of the average nominal flow (NW).
This parameter determines the diameter of the quick connector. The material is also important. Quick connectors are made of various materials, mainly nickel-plated brass, less often stainless steel. Nickel-plated brass increases the product's resistance to wear, while stainless steel allows it to meet stringent safety and quality standards in some industries and places, e.g. in pharmacy. In addition, you should take a look at the type of seal, which should correspond to the material of the quick connector and the expected operating temperature. There are also various specific types of pneumatic quick connectors, e.g. push-to-connect, disconnect, with a cam mechanism, safe, distributors and others.
Choosing the right variant requires knowledge and experience. The maximum media and environment temperature, maximum operating pressure, shut-off type and flow rate must be taken into account. Before purchasing, it is worth consulting a specialist who will ask you about the type of medium being transferred and the tool or device you intend to connect.
How are pneumatic quick connectors constructed?
Typically, a pneumatic quick connector consists of a socket (self-cutting connector) and a plug (plug/socket). The seat consists of a body, a shut-off valve and moving elements with a spring, ring and balls.
Pneumatic quick connectors at the Onninen wholesaler
At the Onninen hydraulic wholesaler , you will find high-quality pneumatic quick connectors that ensure effective connections and safe flow of media. There are versions with various thread types and sizes to choose from, including the popular ½ pneumatic quick connector .
Check out pneumatic quick connectors at the Onninen wholesaler