Source: bing.comAs a DIY enthusiast or a plumber, you may have come across some situations where you need to connect two or three pipes without changing the direction of the flow. This is where a two/three-way parallel tubing connector comes in handy.
What is a Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connector?
A two/three-way parallel tubing connector is a fitting that allows you to connect two or three tubes of the same diameter in a parallel direction. It has multiple ports that accept tubes of the same diameter and connects them together without changing the direction of the flow.
Source: bing.comTypes of Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connectors
There are different types of two/three-way parallel tubing connectors, and they include:
Barbed two/three-way parallel tubing connector
The barbed two/three-way parallel tubing connector is the most common type of connector. It has barbs on each port that grip the tube tightly, preventing it from slipping out. It is suitable for low-pressure applications and can be used with flexible tubing.
Source: bing.comCompression two/three-way parallel tubing connector
The compression two/three-way parallel tubing connector has a nut and a ferrule that compresses the tube when tightened, creating a leak-free seal. It is suitable for high-pressure applications and can be used with rigid tubing.
Source: bing.comPush-to-connect two/three-way parallel tubing connector
The push-to-connect two/three-way parallel tubing connector is the easiest to install. It has a release collar that allows you to insert the tube into the port and then release the collar to lock it in place. It is suitable for low-pressure applications and can be used with flexible tubing.
Source: bing.comHow to Install a Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connector
Installing a two/three-way parallel tubing connector is easy, and you can follow these steps:
- Cut the tubes to the desired length.
- Slide the nut and the ferrule onto the tube (for compression connector).
- Insert the tube into the port, making sure it goes all the way in.
- Tighten the nut (for compression connector).
- Release the collar (for push-to-connect connector).
Applications of Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connector
A two/three-way parallel tubing connector has many applications, and some of them include:
Hydraulic systems
In hydraulic systems, a two/three-way parallel tubing connector is used to connect two or three cylinders, valves, or pumps in a parallel direction.
Source: bing.comFuel systems
In fuel systems, a two/three-way parallel tubing connector is used to connect two or three fuel lines in a parallel direction.
Source: bing.comAir conditioning systems
In air conditioning systems, a two/three-way parallel tubing connector is used to connect two or three pipes in a parallel direction to allow the refrigerant to flow through the system.
Source: bing.comAdvantages of Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connector
Some of the advantages of using a two/three-way parallel tubing connector include:
- It allows you to connect two or three tubes in a parallel direction without changing the direction of the flow.
- It is easy to install and requires no special tools.
- It is available in different materials, such as brass, stainless steel, and plastic, to suit different applications.
- It is suitable for low and high-pressure applications.
- It is suitable for use with flexible and rigid tubing.
Disadvantages of Two/Three Way Parallel Tubing Connector
Some of the disadvantages of using a two/three-way parallel tubing connector include:
- It can cause turbulence in the flow, reducing the efficiency of the system.
- It can be difficult to remove once it has been installed.
- It can be expensive compared to other types of connectors.
Conclusion
A two/three-way parallel tubing connector is an essential component in many applications that require parallel connections of two or three tubes. It is relatively easy to install and is available in different materials to suit different applications. However, it has its disadvantages, such as causing turbulence in the flow and being difficult to remove once installed.