Abstract:
A connector for use in a contaminated environment is provided. The connector includes first and second couplers which are coupled together to produce a fluid path through the connector. Prior to coupling of the first and second couplers, the first and second couplers include plastic caps for minimizing the contaminants on the couplers. Elastomer face seals which can be contaminated are mated against one another compressing to expel contaminants and trapping contaminants between the elastomer face seals. The elastomer face seals are captured between a pair of O-rings. Parts of the elastomer face seals are flushed with fluid as the connector is coupled to further reduce contamination. All internal passages and the elastomer face seals are treated with an antimicrobial compound. The connector vents to the atmosphere during engagement of the first and second couplers such that the connector can operate at a higher pressure with reduced engagement force.
Abstract:
A method of making a sterile connection comprises mating a first fitting having an aperture and a second fitting having an aperture, removing first and second strip out layers from between the end surfaces of sealed first and second resilient sealing members, and contacting the end surfaces of the resilient sealing members to provide fluid communication between the aperture of the first fitting and the aperture of the second fitting. A connector assembly comprises first and second fittings, a stem mounted for axial movement through the first fitting into the second fitting, and a deformable locking device which selectively prevents axial movement of the stem in the first fitting.
Abstract:
A method of securing an end fitting (10) to an end of a hose (12) having an outer braid (12a) and a plastic liner (12b) is disclosed, the method including the step of: i) providing a hollow end fitting (10) for a hose (12), the end fitting (10) having a spigot (10a) and a sealing face; ii) inserting the spigot (10a) of the end fitting (10) between the braid and the liner(12b) and bring the liner end through said hollow end fitting (10) and flaring out the liner end to form a plastic sealing face; iii) processing the assembly so formed in such a manner as to cause the flared liner end to form a shape which includes a bead (26) on the liner surface and which has its inside edge (28) squared off. The bead (26) is preferably concentric and allows the rubber seal previously used to be dispensed with. The end fitting (10) preferably comprises a PTFE lined end fitting, in which the PTFE hose liner (12b) is passed through the bore of the end fitting (10), and is then flared out. A plastic lined hose (12) is also disclosed having secured to an end thereof a hollow end fitting (10) having a spigot (10a) and a sealing face (10b), wherein the spigot (10a) is located between the braid (12a) and the liner(12b), and the liner end passes through the end fitting (10) and is flared out to form a plastic sealing face overlying the sealing face (10b) of the end fitting (10) to form a shape which includes a bead (26) on the liner surface and which has its inside edge (28) squared off.
Abstract:
In manufacturing a hose, a liner composed of a polymeric material is provided, as is a rubber outer body. The liner is reduced in diameter, placed into the outer body, and secured to the rubber outer body by thermal treatment.
Abstract:
A flanged joint system connects two pipes disposed along a common axis. A flange having a mating surface with a circumferential groove terminates each pipe. A gasket assembly comprising an outer annular, substantially rigid retaining ring and an inner deformable annular sealing member is interposed between the mating surfaces of the flanges. The flanges are clamped together with their mating surfaces in axially aligned, facing relationship. The retaining ring limits the impingement of the flanges and prevents overcompression of the deformable material. The joint is reliable and durable, and permits aseptic processing conditions to be maintained. Servicing and gasket replacement are readily accomplished.
Abstract:
The invention relates to a hose fitment, particularly for the connection of disposable food containers to dispensing lines of food dispenser and the like. The hose fitment of the invention is adapted to securely establish fluid connection between a hose and hose retaining means of a food or beverage dispensing line; the hose fitment comprising a body member having a first engaging surface for internally engaging a hose end and a sleeve member comprising a second engaging surface that externally engages around the hose end to press on the hose end against the first engaging surface in a manner effective to create a tight seal between the fitment and the hose end.
Abstract:
A thermoformed PVC, modified PVC, CPVC, metal or coated metal cover, covering system and method is provided for covering assemblies of pipe and pipe insulation, hangers, support rods and mechanical assemblies wherein the assembly is biocide treated, covered by and completely enclosed by the cover, the cover is sealed in order to prevent bacteria growth within the cover while allowing a smooth outside surface for biocide application. The cover can be modified to facilitate the application of biocide after the assembly is covered by providing resealable openings in said cover.
Abstract:
A fluid delivery system includes a connector assembly and a container. The connector assembly includes a first fitting defining a first aperture, a second fitting that is couplable to the first fitting and defines a second aperture, and a removable contamination containment layer sealing at least one of the first and second apertures. One of the first and second fittings is associated with the container.
Abstract:
A quick-connect, clampable fitting for a flexible hose which comprises a flexible main body of plastic material that is moldable or otherwise affixable to the hose. The main body including an integral flange member having an O-ring ribbed sealing face. The main body nests within a separate reinforcing shell of steel which absorbs the stress applied by the make-up clamp. For affixing the main body to the hose in the filed an alternative embodiment of the main body includes a plurality of channels and galleries into which an adherent fluid may be injected. Silicone rubber is a preferred material for the main body and for the adherent fluid which may be vulcanized.
Abstract:
A sterile connector for the end of a conduit employed in the passage of blood or of blood components which comprises a resilient, deformable gasket disposed about the terminal end of a conduit, a continuous, removable yieldable flexible strip material, a portion of which is removably adhered to said gasket and overlies the end of said conduit, said strip material having a free end, said strip material being in a generally U-shaped configuration, whereby a force applied to the free end thereof withdraws the entire strip material to expose the end of said conduit; a method of joining the ends of two conduits together in a sterile manner so that blood or its components can pass therethrough which comprises providing each end with a connector as described above, arranging them in face-to-face alignment so that the ends of the conduit are in registry, drawing the connectors together so that the gasket of each connector is deformed inwardly and so that the free ends of the strip material are substantially parallel and withdrawing the strip material from each of said connectors at the same time; a pair of conduits joined together by a pair of facing connectors as described above.