For the distribution of process fluids, whether in intermediate or finished products, seals such as camlock seals for quick couplings are indispensable.
The pipelines for transferring these fluids to transport tanks are connected to the tanks through “quick couplings” that allow the hoses to be connected and disconnected manually and efficiently. The “quick” couplings have a sealing gasket that prevents liquid spills during the loading and unloading of the tanks.
Sealing gasket solutions:
At Epidor SRT we offer you the sealing solution that best suits your needs. Below, we present the different options:
1. If the fluid is not problematic, the following are usually used rectangular or square section elastomer gaskets (EPDM or NBR) in the quick coupling. This solution presents three problems:
- Clear wear because the elastomer seal is not protected.
- It tends to get pinched with the consequent deterioration.
- It can suffer a punctual chemical attack in the cleaning drains of the cisterns.
2. To protect the elastomer gasket, flexible PTFE covers are integrated to prevent fluid contact with the elastomer. These are the “sandwich” type seals. However, with use, PTFE coatings tend to deform and can be easily pinched.
3. PTFE gasket The “bellows” type with folds and higher resistance to pinching than the “sandwich” type gasket. Almost universal chemical resistance. One problem that can be serious is that product can accumulate between the folds of the gasket, in addition to the poor mechanical properties of the material.
4. Encapsulated elastomer gasket of FEP or PFA and square or rectangular cross-section, which will solve the problem of chemical attack while significantly extending the life of the gasket.
Although it is already a good solution in terms of “service life/price”, camlock joints tend to crack due to the angle of their corners (even if they are rounded).
5. The Bio-Lock gasket® of Garlock is a solution manufactured entirely in Gylon® which does not show the weakness of an encapsulated joint. However, since the material is thermoplastic and lacks the elasticity of an elastomer, connection/disconnection of the coupling is initially more costly.
6. Encapsulated PTFE toroidal section gasket with FPM core, which has a fin on its outer diameter. Being of circular section, it does not show angles where it can crack and the fin guarantees an adequate centering and the necessary immobilization for the joint to work correctly.
The following table summarizes the solutions presented in this article.
If you want to know more, you can consult another of our articles “Elastomers resistant to aggressive fluids in valves”.
Don't hesitate. We have the solution that suits you best. Call us and we will study the best way to solve the sealing problem of your quick couplings.