Frequently Asked Questions |
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■ What exactly is a
dry-disconnect coupling?
A dry-disconnect coupling (also called dry-break
coupling) is a hose connection device which provides an
automatic mechanism to seal off both the hose and the
fixed pipe end when the hose is disconnected. |
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■ Where are dry-disconnect couplings used?
Dry-disconnect couplings are used in any fluid transfer
application where loss of fluid upon disconnection
cannot be tolerated because of environmental
regulations, worker safety considerations, the high
value of the fluid, or where cleanliness is a concern. |
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■ What is the Dry
Link® hose coupling assembly?
The Dry Link brand hose coupling assembly was invented
and patented by us to provide a new and improved
alternative to the older designs of other dry disconnect
devices. It uses a unique new technology which makes the
plunger and spring devices of the last 20 years
obsolete. We are a recipient of the 1993 Product of the
Year, Gold award from Plant Engineering magazine. |
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■ What makes Dry Link
unique?
Almost everything about Dry Link is unique. The flow
shut-off mechanism resembles a butterfly valve which
results in a very low flow restriction. This design
enhances flow while also reducing the risk of internal
gunk-ups which can lead to connection malfunctions. A
foolproof safety interlock prevents accidental opening,
and a clever high-tech sealing arrangement results in
the world’s most drip-free dry disconnect. |
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■ Just how drip-free
is Dry Link?
Independent, third party testing by Factory Mutual
Research has verified that the 2” (DN 50) size Dry Link
hose coupling assembly had only 1 to 2 drops of total
cumulative leakage after a total of 10
connect/disconnect cycles. No other product comes close! |
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■ Where can Dry Link
be used?
Dry Link hose coupling assemblies can be used anywhere
there is a hose being used to transfer fluid, especially
where the fluids are hazardous, toxic, corrosive or
flammable. This, of course, includes bulk fluid transfer
applications such as loading and unloading of tank
trucks, railroad cars and portable tank containers. It
also includes in-plant switching manifolds and moving
equipment such as portable batch reactor vessels. |
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■ Can Dry Link be used
on Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs)?
Absolutely. In fact, the unique Dry Link design provides
better worker access to the bottom connection on an IBC
than most other dry disconnects. |
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■ How long has Dry
Link technology been around? How much field experience
is there?
The first Dry Link units were installed in September
1992, on a solvent switching manifold for a large
midwest pharmaceutical company. This system is still
working fine. Since then, several thousand Dry Link
units have been put into service throughout the world. |
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■ What materials are
used in the construction of Dry Link components?
All wetted parts are Type 316 stainless steel. Dry Link
can also be constructed with Alloy 20 (Carpenter 20), or
Hastelloy C wetted parts for services where severe
corrosives are a concern. All internal seals are spring-energized PTFE; however, molded Viton
(FKM), EPDM or Chemraz/Kalrez
(FFKM) seals can be provided. |
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■ What are the Dry
Link Coupling sizes and end connections?
Couplings are offered in sizes 1”, 1.5”, 2”, 3” and 4”
(DN 25, 40, 50, 75, and 100).
We also offer custom
½" and
¾"
sizes.
End connections: FNPT, British Standard (BSPP), Flanged,
Butt-weld, and Triclover. |
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■ What are the
Pressure-Temperature ratings of Dry Link couplings?
Coupling ratings vary with size and seal materials.
Please refer to our Catalog
or click here. |
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■ What are “keyed”
couplings?
Dry Link “keyed” couplings are used in batch process
plants and manifolds for preventing accidental
cross-contamination of chemicals. Please see details in
our Catalog or click
here. |
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■ Does Dry Link make
sanitary couplings for the pharmaceutical and food
markets?
Absolutely. Typically, these sanitary couplings have
Triclover end connections and are hand polished with an
internal 20 RA micro-inch (0.50 RA micron) surface finish. We can even supply FDA or
USP approved seals. Please see details in our
Catalog or click
here. |
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■ Can I see some
typical applications of Dry Link couplings in the
industry?
Yes. Please visit our “Applications” link on our
website. We have tons of information on our website! |
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■ Can I view a video
demonstration of a Dry Link coupling?
You can watch a video demo of our coupling right on your
PC by clicking here. Or, you may request a CD from us
from our contact page found here. |
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■ Can I find some
guidance for selection of materials on your website?
Our website provides links to third party websites to
check material compatibility for your line medium.
However, Dry Link does not take responsibility for the
accuracy of information contained on the third part
websites. Please visit the “Applications” link on our
website and click on “GUIDE”. |
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■ Does Dry Link
provide technical support for their products?
Our comprehensive website can answer most of your
questions. You can download our Catalog and Maintenance
Manuals. You can even download and watch
videos on your
PC illustrating operation and maintenance of couplings.
If you have further questions, please
contact us. Our
friendly staff is always there to help you. |
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■ How can I order Dry
Link couplings?
It is very important that you specify the correct
coupling for your application. Please select the desired
coupling features by clicking
here. |