Below are the questions asked during the event, along with their respective answers.
Q: How are the materials of the connectors selected or recommended?
A: The materials are selected based on the fluid used in the system, but also the materials of the interfaces the connector will be mounted into. For instance, we would not recommend an aluminum connector if screwed into a brass manifold, as the different material potential would create galvanic corrosion.
Q: No matter how reliable the connector is, there will be leakage someday sooner or later. Is there a way to monitor the connector condition and detect when the leakage happens?
A: I know that some systems can be equipped with leak detection devices. However, they are not part of the quick disconnect function, they would be integrated in the electronics and detect any ingress of fluid.
Q: Would Staubli be interested in changing a design based on a proof of concept product? What is the minimum order number to be interesting in opening a conversation about the product to a specific design?
A: It all depends on how much the product has to be changed. If it is only an interface change (different thread size, sealing profile), it should be pretty easy. We can do custom solution and there is no requirement for minimum quantity.
Q: Do you have dynamic connectors approved for 1233 Zd and 1234 Ze that could be used for liquid cooling with these fluids?
A: I am familiar with refrigerant 1234, but not 1233. We have a product compatible with these fluids. The biggest challenge comes usually from the operating conditions, not the fluid itself (connection at residual pressure exceeding 10 bar and low leak rate required). The SPF product range is dedicated to refrigerant fluids and can be found on the Staubli website.
Q: Pressure drop is important in my system. Can you speak about how to pick quick connectors that minimize pressure drops? What type of connectors work better in this case?
A: The internals of our connectors are usually very similar across different product ranges and comparable sizes. They are designed to minimize the pressure drop. Based on your system requirement (flow, fluid, viscosity, etc), we will calculate what connectors’ ID is the best for a pressure drop that meets your target/expectation.
Q: What new technologies for connectors do you see on the horizon?
A: New materials may be one way.
Q: Hello. Where can I locate these connectors from a distributor?
A: I can only speak for Staubli connectors: we do not go through distributors, we do sell direct. You could find the contact information for your local area at www.staubli.com
Q: With the QDs, how much do they leak in ccs per connection?
A: The lost volume depends on the connector’s size and technology. It also depends on the flow/fluid conditions (viscosity, pressure direction, temperature, etc). To give you an idea, a typical 3mm ID Staubli connector is about 0.002 cc.