The Next Generation of Couplings and Disconnects

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Lastly, bayonet-and-plunger couplers are harder to repair or maintain inline because of the number of parts they contain. In fact, many bayonet-and-plunger suppliers require the coupler to be removed and returned to the manufacturer for repairs. If the coupler can be repaired in the field, the number of steps in the repair process, along with the number of parts to consider can make it difficult or confusing for the maintenance technician.

The New Age Of Disconnects

While bayonet-and-plunger dry disconnect couplers have performed admirably in chemical-manufacturing over the years, an advanced technology has emerged that overcomes the shortcomings found in poppet-style couplers. This innovative technology is a low-spill dry disconnect coupler that operates via a double-ball-valve design. It features a convex ball that rests in a concave ball, resulting in the elimination of any cavity between the mating halves and guaranteeing that no residual fluid will be trapped there, lowering the risk of spills and giving the liquid virtually no place to collect or hide, which eases cleaning.

Specifically, upon disconnection, there will be less than 0.5 ml (0.02 ounces) of fluid left on the face seal of the coupler, an amount that is less than one-quarter of a teardrop.

Dissconects with Safety Incorporated

The design also incorporates multiple safety interlocks that allow the valve to open and close only through a deliberate action by the user, preventing any accidental opening, which lowers the risk of unintentional spills and catastrophic chemical releases. This is not only critical when transferring raw materials from large storage vessels, but also during the numerous tote-filling operations that are a staple of chemical manufacturing.

This constant on-and-off filling of smaller-capacity containers can put undo strain on the couplers, but the double ball-valve design and unique method of operation nullify the harmful effects. The ball-valve design also provides for an unrestricted flow path, thus minimizing pressure drops, which results in less than 1 psi in pressure drop at a flow rate of 150 gallons per minute (568 liters per minute). In other words, a liquid-transfer system that calls for a 2" hose can utilize a 2" double ball-valve coupler model without any reduction or restriction to the flow rate.

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