TPi November 2015

Fi t t ings , f langes , valves & connectors

Fittings secure solar pipe rack in extreme wind

be easily uninstalled and moved, if necessary.

The new fittings are designed with two set screws in the vertical barrel, set at 90° to one another, producing a substantial increase in pullout resistance. Testing on the 1½" IPS fitting shows the addition of the second set screw increases pullout capacity from 1,315lb for the one set screw design, to 2,080lb for the new two set screw design, both on galvanised pipe – an increase of 60 per cent. Speed-Rail slip-on pipe fittings are used with aluminium, galvanised steel, stainless steel or black iron pipe to easily build solar panel racking systems. They are strong and lightweight, and are available in a wide variety of fixed and adjustable configurations, including the tees and flanges most commonly used in solar panel installations. The versatility of the fittings allows dependable support structures to be constructed virtually anywhere a solar panel needs to be installed. The same versatility also allows the systems to

Hollaender ® is introducing four new Speed-Rail ® fittingsdesignedspecifically for installation of solar racking systems in areas that experience extreme wind. The fittings include tees and adjustable elbows for use with 1½" and 2" IPS pipe. These fittings are the 5EX-8 tee and 5EXT-8 tee for 1½" IPS pipe, and the 5X-9 tee and 17X-9 adjustable tee/ elbow for 2" IPS pipe. The ability to withstand uplift caused by wind loads is critical in solar pipe racks. While most regions of the USA must design for 90mph winds, certain coastal areas such as South Florida and the Gulf Coast must design for 135mph and higher wind speeds. On a Speed-Rail fitting, the component that produces pipe-holding power is a single integrated proprietary internal/ external reverse-knurl cup-point set screw that securely attaches the fittings to the pipe, and provides great resistance to loosening and pullout.

All Speed-Rail fittings are made from 535.0 aluminium-magnesium, and are claimed to be the most corrosion- resistant fittings on the market. They are backed by a ten-year warranty against corrosion; they will not rust, and can be used with galvanised steel or other metals without concern for galvanic corrosion. Hollaender manufactures and markets aluminium structural pipe fittings and aluminium pipe, as well as final assemblies that use these components. The company also designs and manufactures complete architectural railing systems, and offers consultation, design and project management services. The only tools needed for assembly are a saw, a hex key and a tape measure. valve bank. Each valve on the bank can be precisely adapted to the actuator size, enabling the system to be utilised in any application. As part of its commitment to meet the changing needs of its customer base, Parker has introduced a new IP40 clip connector. The connector offers a space saving in comparison to a lockable connection, a dimensional saving of 20 per cent (13mm), and more than 90 per cent reduction in the electrical connection weight. These connectors are especially beneficial when utilised in cabinets or other non-aggressive environments, as the new IP40 connection provides protection against unwanted water and dust, optimising electrical connections. Parker Hannifin Manufacturing Ltd – UK www.parker.com Hollaender Manufacturing – USA www.hollaender.com

Newly extended valve system Parker has extended the Moduflex valve system, a range of valves designed to conform to any application requirements. manifolds, last-minute system design changes are easily implemented.

Such adaptive technology means the Moduflex valve system is capable of meeting the changing requirements of the whole automation spectrum.

The range is available configured from basic components or as a pre- assembled and tested valve island. With a captive fitting release system, quick release electrical connectors and single mechanical screw connection between

Readily multi-functional, the system can be employed in a variety of ways:

stand-alone valves, fieldbus ready valve islands, cylinder flow controls and vacuum generators with integrated blow-off. The ability to combine different sizes and flow rates on to the same valve bank is a key feature, with three sizes capable of operating at three different flow ranges (275, 510 or 1,340 Ni/mn), which can all be combined onto just one

Moduflex valve system

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Tube Products International November 2015

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