Safer connections from CPC

A new range of connector accessories for tubing used in the manufacture of pharmaceuticals, designed to improve the safety of processes that need high levels of containment, has been launched by US company Colder Products Co.

CPC said that the ChemQuick Dual Containment range is intended to provide a more robust seal for connectors used in chemical handling fluid lines between a coupling or fitting and a chemical dispense unit (CDU) or pump.

The main feature of the flare nut and panel mount flare fitting is a 'weep' port - claimed to be unique in the marketplace - that relieves the pressure that can build up between the primary and secondary tubing in the event of a leak or if chemical media permeates through the primary line over time. Both the nut and the fitting are suitable for all rigid tubing commonly used in wet process, pharmaceutical and other industrial applications, according to the company.

"The new CPC ChemQuik accessories provide a simple yet effective solution to increase safety for operators who handle caustic chemicals," said Thomas Braun, who heads up the packaging, dispensing and chemical handling division at CPC.

Aggressive and hazardous chemicals such as nitric or hydrofluoric acid can permeate a number of types of rigid tubing (e.g. PFA, FEP, and PTFE) over time, said CPC. And in the event of a primary line leak or rupture, fluid pressure build up between the dual containment lines can also cause the secondary line to rupture or break.

The new product reduces the possibility of operator or costly equipment exposure to caustic chemicals should the secondary line rupture or the chemical leak.