Push-to-connect Fittings

Selection criteria

Pneumatic fittings should be incorporated into a system that requires connection hoses together. It is advised to keep things simple to ensure no significant pressure drop is induced. For example, don’t use a 90-degree elbow if a straight fitting is possible because the elbow will create an unnecessary pressure loss. Other considerations include:

• Operating pressure: Most fittings have a maximum operating pressure of 1.0MPa, but the pressure should be kept below this level to ensure safe operation.
• Operating temperature: Fittings contain o-rings and plastic parts that may become ineffective if using hot air or if the system is placed in a hot environment.
• Special environments: medical and food industries may require fittings with a special rating or material classification.

Applications

Push-in fittings are used in all types of compressed air systems, but are most commonly used in applications having pneumatic cylinders, tools, and equipment. They can be used for water applications, but extra measures have to be taken (controlled surge pressure, water compatibility, insert ring, etc.) The push on connection method allows for rapid changing of components, so it is ideal if you have one air source for multiple tools that can be exchanged out.

Functional combinations

Functional combination push-in fittings have additional features that may be useful to your application. Common additional functional combinations are:

• Flow control silencer to control the speed of air cylinders by choking the flow in one direction and muffling the sound
• Pressure gauge to read the line pressure
• Pressure regulator to limit the line pressure
• Check valves to ensure one directional flow
• Stopcock to externally control or stop the flow