When and Where to use Dry Disconnects
Kamlock fittings are extremely popular in the hose industry. They are reliable, easy to use and the go-to product for industrial hose connections. The problem with Kamlock fittings is media spillage. There is no shut off past the point of the open valve connecting to the hose. In a chemical or corrosive media environment when spills are unacceptable, dry disconnects are needed for specific applications.
Dry Disconnect coupling devices have been proven as successful technology to help protect workers and the environment in the transfer of hazardous materials. If your product is corrosive, toxic, caustic or otherwise harmful, OPW Engineered System’s family of high-performance dry disconnect couplings reduces the hazard associated with the transfer of these products.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of using dry disconnects and when to use them.
Kamvalok
The Kamvalok dry disconnect is designed to automatically shut off in the event of an accidental disconnection of the coupler and adaptor. Should the Kamvalok be accidentally disconnected due to operator error or accident while the handle is in the open position and product flow is in progress, the poppet in the adaptor will automatically close and the seal cylinder will immediately stop flow through the coupler.
Because of its unique poppet action, the OPW Kamvalok® Dry Disconnect virtually eliminates spillage of any residual liquid contained within the line after disconnection. Kamvaloks® are used at transfer points where product loss is unacceptable.
Common applications for the Kamvalok include: Paint, lacquers, inks, adhesives, fatty acids, pharmaceuticals, liquid soaps, petroleum products, solvents, ag-chemicals, vegetable oils, detergents, and many acids and caustics.
Epsilon
EPSILON® is a low spill coupling, based on a double ball valve system integrating a sophisticated safety design. Here are some key benefits of using the Epsilon Fittings:
Dry Disconnect Reliability: Low spill face seal reduces amount of loss upon disconnect, specified to less than .40 ml spillage for the 2″coupling (2000 cycles test average 0.6 ml) and less than 1/10th of a teaspoon (half an eyedropper).
Enhanced Environmental Compliance: Positive shut-off of coupling halves eliminates line contamination and accidental release of potentially hazardous fluids into the environment during connection and disconnection.
Full Flow: Straight-through flow path provides unrestricted flow in either direction, minimizing pressure drop.
Unparalleled Safety: Multiple safety interlocks eliminate unintentional spills and catastrophic chemical releases that threaten worker safety and the environment.
Prevents Cross-Contamination: Optional keyed couplings mechanically lock out and isolate transfer lines.
When making a decision on what hose fitting you need, think whether or not it is acceptable for media to spill out of the hose. And as always, we’re here to help.
If you have any questions, feel free to send us an inquiry online or call us at 1-800-234-3033 and we will make sure to get back to you as soon as possible.