Answer
Jun 17, 2021 - 01:08 PM
Let's take care of the easy part first: We always specify FKM (FPM, Viton ® , Fluorel ®) gaskets for ALL O-Rings and gaskets.
Why do we always specify FKM?
First it is fully compatible with all Engineered Fluids' Dielectric Coolants AND its available in standard sizes for all O-Rings and it doesn't cost much more for most applications.
It also has a wide range of other chemical compatibility, temperature range, low compression set, and excellent aging characteristics, with a working temperature range is -30°C to +230°C.
Regarding the connections you mentioned we'll address each one:
a) Bulkhead fittings that require solid square O-Rings
Bulkhead fittings work well if you have a very smooth tank surface for the O-Ring to seat against, and you've prepared the surface properly as any dirt or imperfections will lead to the O-Ring leaking. Also be sure to watch how much torsion you apply to these types of fitting with unsupported pipe, or you will deform the side of your tank and create a leak.
b) ANSI & DIN Flanges
We love flanges, they are easy to work with, seal very well, are easy to take apart and give you the ability to slide a pipe or piece of equipment into the pipe without having to move the pipe. We use these extensively with pumps and dry cooler connections. Above 2" pipe we recommend always using flange connections with a FKM gasket or O-Ring.
C) NPTF / BSPT Tapered Threaded Connections
These are common both domestically and internationally. Threaded connections without an O-Ring are always a challenge to seal well, both these are tapered connections, so the Male and Female are both tapered. These connections seal through the compression caused by thread deformation as the two pieces mate. These types of connections can be difficult to seal properly so we always recommend using a PTFE pipe dope to provide a proper seal or for smaller connections we recommend using PTFE sealing tape.
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D) SAE Straight Thread O-Ring (O-Ring Boss) connections
These are great connections and easy to use, again just specify FKM O-Rings. They provide one of the cleanest and easy to use profiles for a threaded seal connection.
E) JIC 37° Flare (SAE J514) connections and SAE 45° Flare (SAE J512) connections
These work very well, but they tend to be bigger connectors for their size and expensive. They seal well and are often used in high pressure hydraulic applications and systems.
F) O-Ring Face Seal (SAE J1453) connections
These work very well, but they tend to be available only in smaller sizes and are designed for very high-pressure hydraulic systems. They are overkill for most SLIC immersion cooling solutions.
G) Quick Connections
We use Quick Connects all the time and you will find a good list of certified suppliers on our Web site under support in the Material Compatibility Guide which can be found here: https://www.engineeredfluids.com/material-compatibility.
Why do we always specify FKM?
First it is fully compatible with all Engineered Fluids' Dielectric Coolants AND its available in standard sizes for all O-Rings and it doesn't cost much more for most applications.
It also has a wide range of other chemical compatibility, temperature range, low compression set, and excellent aging characteristics, with a working temperature range is -30°C to +230°C.
Regarding the connections you mentioned we'll address each one:
a) Bulkhead fittings that require solid square O-Rings
Bulkhead fittings work well if you have a very smooth tank surface for the O-Ring to seat against, and you've prepared the surface properly as any dirt or imperfections will lead to the O-Ring leaking. Also be sure to watch how much torsion you apply to these types of fitting with unsupported pipe, or you will deform the side of your tank and create a leak.
b) ANSI & DIN Flanges
We love flanges, they are easy to work with, seal very well, are easy to take apart and give you the ability to slide a pipe or piece of equipment into the pipe without having to move the pipe. We use these extensively with pumps and dry cooler connections. Above 2" pipe we recommend always using flange connections with a FKM gasket or O-Ring.
C) NPTF / BSPT Tapered Threaded Connections
These are common both domestically and internationally. Threaded connections without an O-Ring are always a challenge to seal well, both these are tapered connections, so the Male and Female are both tapered. These connections seal through the compression caused by thread deformation as the two pieces mate. These types of connections can be difficult to seal properly so we always recommend using a PTFE pipe dope to provide a proper seal or for smaller connections we recommend using PTFE sealing tape.
D) SAE Straight Thread O-Ring (O-Ring Boss) connections
These are great connections and easy to use, again just specify FKM O-Rings. They provide one of the cleanest and easy to use profiles for a threaded seal connection.
E) JIC 37° Flare (SAE J514) connections and SAE 45° Flare (SAE J512) connections
These work very well, but they tend to be bigger connectors for their size and expensive. They seal well and are often used in high pressure hydraulic applications and systems.
F) O-Ring Face Seal (SAE J1453) connections
These work very well, but they tend to be available only in smaller sizes and are designed for very high-pressure hydraulic systems. They are overkill for most SLIC immersion cooling solutions.
G) Quick Connections
We use Quick Connects all the time and you will find a good list of certified suppliers on our Web site under support in the Material Compatibility Guide which can be found here: https://www.engineeredfluids.com/material-compatibility.
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