In many different applications, air is used to create pressure and to operate a variety of tools. This requires the hose from the air compressor to be connected to the specific tool or device. As these connections have to be sealed to maintain air pressure, an effective connector is a must.
Traditional types of connectors that require screwing in the tool or device are difficult to use and require time for both connecting and disconnecting. For a quick push on and off type of option, a pneumatic quick connect is the perfect option.
How They Work
The pneumatic quick connect is sometimes simply called a quick coupler or an air coupler, and they can be made of a variety of materials from plastics through to brass or other metals and alloys. There are seals within the connector ends that eliminate any loss of air pressure during use as well as when the tool or device is connected to the hose.
The coupler is designed to have a male and female end, allowing the connector to snap into the hose connector, pushing open the shut-off valve and allowing the air to flow through the hose to the device. Another valve on the device allows the operator to control the air flow and operation of the tool.
When the pneumatic quick connect is removed from the hose end of the connector, the shut-off valve automatically closes, preventing any loss of air pressure and avoiding the requirement of an additional valve.
What To Consider
When choosing pneumatic quick connect for any type of system, it is important to think about the working conditions for the connector. Brass, stainless and other materials are very durable and strong, and they stand up in corrosive environments where impact to the connector is a concern.
Plastic offers a lightweight and also a non-reactive and non-corrosive option. Plastic can be used in most applications, but in extreme temperatures or when impact to the valve is a concern they may not be the best choice for materials.
