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Dry Link Hose Coupling Assembly
The Need
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Conventional dry-disconnects routinely leak up
to 15cc of process fluid after every transfer and require catch buckets and costly
cleanups. A dry disconnect is a hose connection device which provides an automatic
mechanism to seal off both, the hose and the pipe end, when the hose is disconnected
(www.DryLink.com). The Dry Link System, by
Victaulic, solves this problem by implementing a hose coupling assembly with a drip free
design. This pipe connection technology is proving to be a highly versatile solution when
there is a need to transfer volatile and/or toxic fluids through a series of hoses or
pipes.
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Dry Link Connection
Style 250 Adapter
Style 260 Adapter |
The Technology
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The Dry Link assembly consists of a coupler
and an adapter. When locked together, they form a secure hose connection - with an unique
flow shut-off device built in. This device is designed with two identical half disks that
are supported by an independent shaft. The disks press together as the coupler and adapter
halves are connected. When the handle on the coupler is turned, the discs move
simultaneously, acting as a single disc. Also, when the Dry Link assembly is disconnected,
the disc again splits into two identical but separate halves. Using innovative sealing
technology, no fluid gets between the disc faces when there is a flow in the line. The
system comes in sizes from 1 1/2" to 3" (Victaulic 1995).
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The Benefits
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The benefits from implementing the Dry Link
system are:
- Elimination of spills: Not only does the Dry Link securely
seal process fluids within the line. It also provides for a unique mechanical interlock
that prevents the connection from opening unless the discs are closed and sealed. This
presents a big advantage over other disconnects in that worker safety is enhanced (when
dealing with toxic, combustible, or volatile fluids), the environment is conserved, and
product loss is minimized (when dealing with expensive fluids).
- Better flow: The smooth bore, simple configuration of Dry
Link coupling assembly results in low pressure drops. This means better flow even for
highly viscous fluids (Victaulic 1995).
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- Easier and fast operation: The Dry Link assembly is an
excellent alternative to heavy, cumbersome, conventional pipe disconnects. In addition, it
is up to 50% lighter than comparable products. It also allows fast, easy, and safe fluid
transfers.
- Simpler Maintenance: Visual inspection and cleaning of the
sealing area in a Dry Link assembly is fast and easy. Seals are readily accessible and
simple to replace when necessary (Victaulic 1995).
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Status
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Currently the Dry Link system is being
successfully applied in the industry. In the Upjohn Company's Michigan facility, its
implementation effectively reduced solvent emissions, cross contamination, and potential
employee exposure. Dry Link has also been implemented in chemical emulsions plants, flow
diversion manifolds, tank unloadings, and hazardous waste transport systems. |
Barriers
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There is still no information available on the
overall implementation costs associated with such a system. It is not clear whether it is
economically feasible to apply this system for transferring nonhazardous fluids. |
Points of Contact
Dry Link, Inc., 1549 Fencorp Drive,
Fenton, MO 63131.
Phone: (636) 349-2999 Fax:(636) 349-0666
Email: info@drylink.com
Website: www.drylink.com
References
- Victaulic: 'Dry Link', 1995.
Disclaimer Statement
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Neither the Construction
Industry Institute nor Purdue University in any way endorses this
technology or represents
that the information presented can be relied upon without further investigation. |
MMS05/LHM
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