Reliable hose lines achieved thanks to safe couplings

Louise Davis

Carsten Wilke details how foodstuff regulations-compliant hose lines are achieved thanks to safe couplings

The statutory requirements for objects and equipment that come into contact with foodstuffs are clear: they must be manufactured so that they do not have a negative influence on the foodstuff. This also applies for the hose and the coupling that together form the functional hose line and as a flexible transport connection cannot be missing in any production chain.

An unsuitable coupling or improper connection can cause impurities. Crimped couplings are regarded as particularly hygienic. In the case of high-quality coupling systems, the ferrule is longer than the hose fitting. This prevents any dead space from resulting should the hose be bent. Thanks to the very stable connection between the hose and the coupling, the swaged fitting is also beneficial in terms of industrial safety.

The hose fitting systems from Continental meet all requirements and standards for professional couplings in the brewing, beverage and foodstuffs industry.

The ferrule of the new coupling is fitted with a chamber that allows the sleeve collar to slip more easily into the nozzle collar during the coupling process. Additionally, the tooth geometry on the ferrule has been adapted precisely to the hose adapter. This ensures an optimal fit between the ferrule and fitting. Both modifications make it easier to integrate the coupling properly in the hose, which in turn contributes to safe and hygienic operation of the hose line. This is because incorrectly mounted couplings can result in dirt cavities, which cannot be adequately rinsed and disinfected.

Adapts to requirements

The coupling is manufactured in Germany to meet DIN standards. It is also available with thread types that meet the Swedish standard (SMS 1145), the Danish standard (DS 722), and the British standard (BS 4825).

The standard version is produced from material 1.4301, but the Pagufix 4000 can also be supplied in other materials and in various special versions. This means that the coupling can be optimally adapted to the prevalent operating requirements. For example, if a bend is necessary, the 90° or 45° bends ensure that the hose does not have to be bent. This increases its service life, as heavy mechanical stress such as bending can accelerate the ageing process.

Carsten Wilke is with Contitech

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