A quick connect fitting, also called a quick disconnect or quick release coupling, is a coupling used to provide a fast, make-or-break connection of fluid transfer lines. Operated by hand, quick connect fittings replace threaded or flanged connections, which require wrenches. When equipped with self-sealing valves, quick connect fittings will, upon disconnection, automatically contain any fluid in the line.

Uses

Quick connect fittings (push fittings) are used in a wide variety of plumbing, heating, electrical and fire suppression systems. Quick connecft fittings are used for electrical, fire suppression and plumbing technologies. Quick connect fittings work by inserting the tubing into a connection mechanism that deploys fastening teeth onto the tubing surface. When opposing force is applied to the union, the teeth are forced deeper into the tubing, preventing separation of the union. Quick connect fittings offer a significant time saving benefit over traditional technologies and require little skill for their usage. There are a large variety of quick connect fittings in the market and they are found in all industries. They are employed many kilometers underwater, in drilling operations, in orbit, for docking spacecraft, and everywhere in between, for a myriad of reasons.

Types

Fittings come in a variety of generic and proprietary types, with the market dominated by three standards:

• Industrial-type interconnect/interchange, based on military specification MIL-C-4109F
• ARO-type interconnect/interchange, developed by ARO (now part of Ingersoll-Rand), mainly for fluid applications.
• Automotive-type interconnect/interchange, based on a standard set forth by TruFlate for automotive shops, including inflation and pneumatic tools.