Universal Push-to-Connect Assembly
March 12, 2008
Parker Hannifin’s Tube Fittings Division, in conjunction with the Hose Products Division and Parflex Division, has developed a Universal Push-to-Connect (UPTC) assembly that provides fast and efficient, leak-free connections for compact fluid power systems in industrial, mobile and construction equipment. Utilizing Parker’s Seal-Lok™ O-ring face seal (ORFS) adapter or EO metric bite-type fittings, the patent-pending UPTC system is suitable for rigid inch and metric tubing, hydraulic hose and thermoplastic hose assemblies involving tube-hose, tube-port and hose-port connections. Unlike other push-to-connect couplings that require changeovers to new male- and female-end fitting designs, Parker’s UPTC innovative male geometry allows easy substitution on any existing Parker Seal-Lok or EO fitting system. UPTC is especially advantageous during assembly where simply pushing the hose or tube into the adapter creates a leak-free connection. This speedy connection creates immediate cost savings in assembly time along with reductions in warranty and rework claims due to improper assembly. UPTC consists of a base Seal-Lok (ORFS) or EO metric bite-type fitting, a factory assembled UPTC nut with its internal sealing and retaining elements, a dust O-ring and a UPTC hose assembly or rigid tube. The UPTC nut is assembled to the base ORFS or metric bite-type fitting at the factory to ensure proper torque is applied. Once fully engaged, the retaining element is positively trapped between the male and the UPTC nut. It cannot escape, even under vibration and extremely high pressure. Visual and tactile install indicators on the nut and fitting signify full engagement and a complete connection. The assembly can be disconnected by using a wrench to loosen the nut, exposing a standard connector end. If the hose is damaged, the UPTC assembly can be replaced with a standard ORFS hose assembly. No special connector is required for field repair, but the option of replacing the damaged assembly with a new Parker UPTC connection is still available. UPTC Features: • Compatible with any existing Parker Seal-Lok or EO fitting system • Compatible with rigid inch and metric tubing (adapted by changing the braze sleeve), hydraulic hose and thermoplastic hose assemblies • Substantial time and cost savings due to elimination of wrenching/torquing —more— • Faster, easier assemblies, particularly in tight spaces—reduces errors, rework and warranty claims • Assemblies can be disconnected with a standard wrench • UPTC technology is available in straights, 45° and 90° elbows, tees and crosses in sizes 1/4" to 1" for ORFS fittings including the most common jump sizes, and 8 mm to 25 mm for metric bite-type fittings • Connects to most standard port technologies, such as SAE straight thread port (SAE J1926), ISO 6149 port, pipe, and more* Compatible with any existing Parker Seal-Lok or EO fitting system * Compatible with rigid inch and metric tubing (adapted by changing the braze sleeve), hydraulic hose and thermoplastic hose assemblies * Substantial time and cost savings due to elimination of wrenching/torquing * Faster, easier assemblies, particularly in tight spaces—reduces errors, rework and warranty claims * Assemblies can be disconnected with a standard wrench * UPTC technology is available in straights, 45° and 90° elbows, tees and crosses in sizes 1/4" to 1" for ORFS fittings including the most common jump sizes, and 8 mm to 25 mm for metric bite-type fittings * Connects to most standard port technologies, such as SAE straight thread port (SAE J1926), ISO 6149 port, pipe, and more
