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Pneumatic Fittings & Tubing FAQ

In addition to being the leading supplier of pneumatic components for industrial systems, Polyconn is your top source for all pneumatic knowledge. Our expertise is at your disposal as you explore which pneumatic fitting or plastic tubing is best for your application. Explore these frequently asked questions to learn the answers to your most pressing questions.

 

Pneumatic Fittings

How to Connect Brass Fittings
  • The exact process for brass fitting installation will vary depending on your selected fitting. As denoted by the name, brass push-to-connect fittings connect by being pushed into place. Brass barb fittings will require a sealant to torque recommended for your fitting’s thread style. For other pneumatic brass fitting configurations, consult your components’ manufacturer instructions or contact Polyconn for assistance.

Barbed Fittings

How to Insert and Install Barbed Fittings
How to Connect Poly Pipe to Barb Fittings
  • Begin barb fitting installation by ensuring your poly pipe is cut squarely. Then press the pneumatic tubing down around the barb fitting until it is seated. This provides a secure pneumatic connection.
How to Seal Barbed Fittings
  • The best way to seal barbed fittings will depend on the thread of your particular component. If your pneumatic fitting includes an O-ring, you will require a smooth surface to seal on. If your pneumatic barb fitting features a pipe thread, make sure to use a sealant such as pipe tape.
How to Get Hose Off Barb Fittings
  • In some instances, plastic tubing or other pneumatic pipe can simply be pulled off the barb fittings. However, you will usually need to cut the pneumatic tubing off with a very sharp knife. While disconnecting the pipe, take care not to cut yourself or damage the barb fitting as that can provide a leak path once the tube is reconnected.
How Much Pressure Can a Barbed Fitting Hold?
  • Pneumatic barb fittings can generally handle more pressure than the connected pneumatic tubing. However, this depends on the material used to manufacture the barbed fitting. Consult your supplier rating and relevant specifications to find information about your exact component.

Pneumatic Tubing

How to Insert or Install Plastic Tubing
  • Pneumatic tubing has a straightforward installation process. Cut the tubing end square and press it into the pneumatic fittings. You will feel it slip past the O-ring. Be sure that your pneumatic tube is fully seated.  Metric tubing will follow the same installation processes.
How to Connect Plastic Tubing
  • Install a barb fitting or push-to-connect fitting into your device. After cutting the tube end square, press into the fitting until you feel it move past the O-ring or on the barb. Check to make sure that it is fully seated, and then repeat the process with the connecting tube.
How Do I Control Flow in a Pneumatic Tube?
  • Generally, flow is controlled in a tube via the installation of a flow control device, such as a needle valve or pinch valve.

Valves & FRLs

How Does a Quick Exhaust Valve Work?
  • Quick exhaust valves are installed at the rod or blind end of a pneumatic cylinder. They are designed to provide a quick extension and retraction of the equipment and operate by increasing the speed of the pneumatic cylinder’s rod to directly expel the exhaust air at the port end of the cylinder.
     

 

Polyconn is Ready to Answer Any Question About Pneumatic Connections

Polyconn provides the wholesale pneumatic components and competive pricing to distributors, OEMs, and MROs. Our experts are here to support your operations through excellent products and advanced industry knowledge.

Don’t see the answer you’re looking for or have further questions? Call or contact us today! A pneumatic expert will discuss your inquiry and provide the best solution for your application.