Overview

This document presents a detailed technical overview of the 3F Plastic Flip Unions series by SERTO AG, Switzerland, focusing on plastic pneumatic fittings compatible with nylon and polyurethane tubing for compressed air and industrial water applications.

1. Product Types and Descriptions

• Plugs (FP 30002): End caps with easy insertion/removal via a release button.
• Straight Connectors (FP 31050) and Reduced Variants: Standard and diameter-reducing unions for tube connections.
• Male Connectors and Tapered Adaptor Threads: Threaded interfaces with Teflon coating for secure sealing.
• Panel Mount, Reduction, Elbow, and Adjustable Elbow Connectors: Various configurations for directional changes, size transitions, and panel installations.
• Banjo and Rotary Connectors: Swivel designs allowing 360° rotation, some with flow control features.
• Tee and Y Connectors: Branching fittings including male threaded and push-in types.
• Connectors with Non-Return Valves and Speed Controllers: Integrated check valves and adjustable flow control for system protection and regulation.

2. Technical Specifications

• Operating Fluids: Compressed air and non-potable industrial water.
• Pressure Range: From vacuum (-0.099 MPa) up to 1.0 MPa (10 bar), with proof pressure up to 3.0 MPa (30 bar).
• Temperature Range: 0 to 60°C for air; water limited to +5 to +40°C.
• Materials: White PBT plastic bodies, brass threaded studs (nickel-plated), stainless steel/brass chucks and guides, POM collets and release buttons, NBR O-rings.
• Tube Compatibility: Calibrated nylon (PA 11w/12w) and polyurethane tubes with outer diameters 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 mm.
• Sealing: Special profile O-rings ensure reliable sealing with low insertion force.
• Connection Types: Metric plastic tubes, M5 with O-ring, tapered R threads with Teflon coating.

3. Design and Functional Features

• High retention force securing nylon and polyurethane tubes.
• Quick assembly/disassembly via white release button that disengages chuck and collet without tube damage.
• Compact design with swivel bodies and threaded parts allowing independent rotation for installation in confined spaces.
• Wide range of fittings covering straight, angled, reduced, adjustable, rotary, and valve-integrated types.

4. Dimensional Data and Weight

Detailed tables provide dimensions (lengths, diameters, thread sizes, wrench sizes) and weights for each fitting type and size, facilitating precise selection and integration.

5. Usage Recommendations and Limitations

• Use only calibrated tubes to ensure proper fit and sealing.
• Not suitable for potable water applications.
• Pressure surges must not exceed maximum operating pressure.
• Ensure thread type and size compatibility during assembly.

6. Additional Pneumatic Connectors and Components

• Includes male tees, Y-connectors, male elbows, rotary male connectors/elbows, non-return valve connectors, and swivel speed controllers.
• Rotary components feature oil-impregnated plastic slide bearings and ball bearings for smooth, low-torque rotation and extended service life.
• Special NBR rotary seals minimize friction while maintaining excellent sealing.
• Stud threads coated with Teflon-based sealant for quick, reliable assembly.
• Swivel speed controllers and rotary elbows allow 360° rotation for flexible installation.

7. Operating Conditions and Parameters

• Fluid medium: compressed air filtered to 10 microns, oiled or dry.
• Operating pressure: max 1.0 MPa (~10 bar), min vacuum -0.0987 MPa.
• Proof pressure: up to 3.0 MPa (~30 bar) for connectors, 1.5 MPa (~15 bar) for speed controllers.
• Temperature range: 0°C to 60°C (some components specify 5°C to 60°C).
• Permissible rotation speed varies by diameter (e.g., 500 min⁻¹ for Ø4/6 mm, down to 250 min⁻¹ for Ø12 mm).

8. Installation and Usage Recommendations

• Minimize lateral forces on miniature ball bearings to avoid damage; polyurethane tubing recommended for flexibility and protection.
• Swivel and rotary features facilitate easy installation and adjustment.
• Speed controllers provide precise flow regulation with 10 turns of needle rotation.

9. Key Product Benefits

• Cost-effective, quick assembly enabled by Teflon-coated threads and swivel designs.
• High flow capacity with precise control, especially at low flow rates.
• Durability ensured by oil-impregnated bearings and special seals.
• Versatility in installation positions and tubing compatibility.

10. Critical Dimensions and Parameters

• Lengths range from ~7 mm to over 75 mm depending on fitting type and size.
• Diameters vary from 9.5 mm to over 57 mm.
• Weights range from 3 g for small fittings to over 100 g for large swivel speed controllers.
• Thread sizes include metric (M5, M6) and tapered pipe threads (R 1/8, R 1/4, R 3/8, R 1/2).

Summary

The 3F Plastic Flip series by SERTO AG offers a comprehensive range of plastic pneumatic fittings optimized for nylon and polyurethane tubing in compressed air and industrial water systems. The fittings combine ease of use, secure connections, adaptability to various installation conditions, and precise flow control. Supported by detailed technical data, material specifications, and installation guidelines, these products are suitable for diverse industrial pneumatic applications requiring durability, flexibility, and reliable performance.