Quick Coupling
Quick couplings are used to join two pipes or hoses or a combination of the
two together. They are composed of two mating halves: a male plug and a female
coupling. In order to connect the two, the male plug is inserted into the
opening in the female half. Some are simple plugs, as described above; other
common designs include push-on, threaded, and twist.
Most quick couplings are composed of metal materials, such as brass,
aluminum, and stainless steel. Recently, however, plastic materials have become
more common because they are resistant to corrosion and comparably less
expensive.
Quick couplings are designed to prevent leakage from the line and are often
fitted with shut-off valves for this purpose. They are used in pneumatic and
hydraulic systems, as well as for applications in many different industries.
They are utilized in firefighting on hoses and hydrants, in machinery, and in
fuel lines.