PFA Tubing
The PFA nut is tapered on the ID and will apply a holding force on the collets when tightened.
Radius at end of pipe nipple creates a swept flow path that allows for quick cleanup and fewer particulates that can accumulate at this Location more easily with the std flare design. When the nut is engaged with the fitting body stop, a lateral force is exerted on the ACME threads. This force applies a side load on the threads and aids in preventing the nut from loosening from temp and pressure variations.
Tube strain relief design used for all sizes of PFA nuts. Allows for side load of tubing without compromising the sealing point of the flare.
Real time cross-section photos of LQ3 vs. Flowell, a Japanese version of the std flare fitting design. Notice the deformation of the flare on the Flowell fitting as a result of no support and prevention of cold flow.
Flare depth for sizes is the same as standard flare fitting design. Larger sizes, 1, 1-1/4, and 1-1/2 are a deeper flare design for the LQ3. This ensures the leak-free protection on the larger OD tube connections. Use SMC flare tools to prevent improper flares for these sizes.
The use of fine threads increases the risk of cross-threading which will compromise the force applied to the sealing surface, allowing leaks to occur.
The sharp edge of the male fitting nipple creates an entrapment area for particulate and is not easily flushed out.
The proper torque required for the std flare design requires the user to measure the gap between the nut and body this is not practical and is too subjective to over-torqueing that can damage the primary seal surface. Under torqueing can result in not enough force applied to the sealing surface, allowing leaks to occur.
The std flare does not contain many of the newer chemicals used. This is a CuSO4 application where leakage is observed on a pump outlet, into a pulse dampener. Using the LQ3 will save the user $$ and time by preventing these leaks!
Flare tool designed for the 1/8 and LQ3 fitting sizes. Uses a cold flare process that forces a flare pin into the ID of the tubing that is held in place be a tubing holder. SMC is the ONLY manufacturer that can provide an 1/8 flare fitting connection. It is much more reliable than the compression style fitting, with no risk of losing the small compression ring.
LQ3 PFA nut spanner wrenches assist the user in ensuring the nut engages with the fitting body stop. Typically used on the larger OD tube fittings.