Hydraulic adaptors – general information

Hydraulic adapters are used in high pressure hydraulic systems for connecting hydraulic flexible assemblies and tubes with other components of a system (pumps, valves, quick release couplings etc.). They enable changing the type of connection or reducing the size to suit the connections of the components to be joined. Made of zinc-plated carbon steel or AISI 316 stainless steel. They may come with elastomer seals, e.g. O-rings made of NBR rubber or Viton. They are designed for a typical working pressure range of high-pressure hydraulics (around 100 to 400 bar). They can be used at lower operating pressures, for general industrial applications and pneumatics.

Working pressure of hydraulic adapters

When calculating the maximum working pressure of an adapter, the safety factor must be considered as a combination of both the pressure resistance of this adapter and the strength and tightness of the connection between the adapter and another component that is screwed to it. If there are different types and sizes of connections on either side, the working pressure of the adapter will be determined by the lower of these values.

Material and working temperature range

• Zinc-plated carbon steel: from -40°C to +200°C (if certain minimum shock strength at sub-zero temperatures is required, please contact Tubes International, above 100°C working pressure correction is recommended).
• Stainless steel AISI 316: from -270°C to +800°C (above 100°C working pressure correction is recommended).
• Sealing: NBR (nitrile): from -25°C to +100°C; FKM (Viton) from -20°C to +200°C.

The adapters are sealed while they are attached, usually using PTFE tape, bonded or copper seal, also on 60° cone.