OPW Engineered Systems' new Breakaway coupling is designed for fluid or gas containment in driveaway/pullaway accidents.
For use with hose or loading arm applications, the Breakaway separates at any angle when subjected to a designated pull force. In case of separation, its patented double-poppet valves seat automatically to stop the flow of liquid on both ends, reducing spillage while protecting equipment and personnel. Fluid content in the hose and the loader is retained.
The Breakaway offers minimal flow restriction and low pressure drop, making this coupling suitable for high-flow line applications. For example, loading 851 liters per minute (225 gpm) through the 50 mm (2") Breakaway produces about 0.6 Bar (5.0 psi) pressure drop — about 10 times less than comparable technology. The Breakaway is also reusable. After a separation incident, the coupling can be reset and returned to operation with the use of a rebuild kit.
This compact coupling can absorb the effects of normal line shock while protecting the system from external overload and extending hose life. Shear bolts can be supplied in various sizes and materials to meet specific pressure and load requirements. OPW can custom-build Breakaway couplings to meet specific applications.
The 50-mm model of the Breakaway is supplied standard in 316L stainless steel. It may also be specified in aluminum, Alloy 20, and Hastalloy C, with a choice of end connections including NPT, BSP, ANSI, DIN, British, and JIS flanged and butt-welded.
Other sizes of the Breakaway coupling should be available later in 2003. For more details, contact OPW, 2726 Henkle Dr, Lebanon OH 45036.