Tube connection process speeds assembly of instrumentation systems

Parker Hannifin offers flared-cone connection (FCC) technology to help enhance the performance of compression-style tube connections for instrumentation system designers and installers.

Designed for working pressures as high as 22,500 PSI, it speeds the assembly of instrument tubing systems for use in high-pressure applications in the oil and gas industry. Installers can typically complete the flared-cone connection in less than 4 min. after minimal training, the company states.

The patent-pending technology is based on a single-sleeve, compression-style system. However, unlike conventional designs, the tube end is flared to prevent any possibility of ejection and to provide the connection’s primary metal-to-metal seal. When the gland nut is tightened, the inside surface of the anti-ejection flare mates with a cone in the fitting or valve.

The compression sleeve then mates with the body of the component to form a second, redundant metal-to-metal seal. If the primary seal were to fail, the secondary seal preserves the connection.