When selecting the right quick connect fitting coupling, the frequency of hose connection and disconnection is a major factor in the type of coupler that should be used. For example, at workstations where pneumatic tools are being changed many times throughout a shift, a quick connect coupler allows rapid tool replacement and provides a significant increase in productivity.

Another example is hydraulic testing processes. Quick couplings significantly reduce the time required to test each assembly. If technicians were required to tap into systems using a wrench to connect and disconnect, valuable time would be added to each testing procedure. Again, productivity increases with the use of quick couplings.

Many industries are rapidly adopting quick couplings for this very reason, realizing the increase in efficiency far outweighs the increased costs.

What is a quick connct fitting coupling?
A quick coupling, often referred to as a quick coupler, QD or quick-acting coupling, is a mechanical device that provides a fast, easy, sure way to repeatedly connect and disconnect almost any fluid or gas line. All quick-connect couplings have two parts: a plug and a socket. The plug is the male half and the socket is the female half. When connected properly, these parts seal and lock the joint effectively to contain internal pressures and resist any tensile forces that tend to pull the joint apart.

The most significant advantages of a quick couplings over standard hydraulic connections are:

Time of connection/disconnection

Prevention of fluid leakage

How to Choose the Right Quick Coupling Excavator Quick Coupling DivisionWhy the reluctance to employ quick connect couplers?
Cost is a factor that prevents quick connect couplings from being more widely used. These couplings contain many more components such as valving and locking mechanisms, which means higher material and assembly costs.

Secondly, there is an issue of pressure drop. Media flowing over the internal valves causes turbulence in the media - either fluid or gas. Think of the effect rocks have on the flow of a river. This can cause a slight drop in pressure that can be measured as ‘pressure drop’ (PSID).