Colour Marking of STAUFF Quick Release Couplings
Frequently asked questions and answers about coloured identification rings for Quick Release Couplings
How exactly has STAUFF implemented the colour marking ring option for quick release couplings?
Which material is used to manufacture the rings for colour marking the couplings?
The rings are manufactured from thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). TPU is a lightweight, elastic material with very good abrasion and wear resistance, paired with high resilience.
Do these grooves impact the performance or durability of the quick release couplings?
No, the integrity of the coupling is not affected. The grooves for the colour marking rings are placed in non-critical areas on external parts, such as the sliding sleeve.
Extensive finite-element-method (FEM) simulations during the development phase and additional burst and pressure tests at the STAUFF Technology Centre delivered the clear conclusion that the grooves have no impact on performance and that the quick release couplings continue to meet or exceed the usual high requirements.
How are the colour marking rings installed on the couplings?
The rings for colour marking the couplings can be installed by the customer/user as required.
Does STAUFF also supply couplings with pre-assembled colour marking rings?
No, this is currently not planned due to the large number of possible combinations.
Is a special tool required for installing the colour marking rings?
No special tools are required. Simple hook tools can make installation easier, though. The development focused especially on a user-friendly solution. If necessary, the rings can also be expanded manually and pushed into the corresponding position.
Can the colour marking rings also be retrofitted on couplings that are already installed?
Yes, if the coupling has the required grooves, then the marking rings can be installed at any time.
Can the colour marking rings be reused on other couplings?
Generally, yes. We do not recommend re-using damaged (e.g. cracked) rings, though.
What if I do not want or need any colour coding?
In that case, simply omit the colour marking rings and use the couplings without colour marking as before.
Which colours does STAUFF offer as a standard?
STAUFF offers the colour marking rings in the following standard colours:
- Red (RAL 3000)
- Black (RAL 9005)
- Yellow (RAL 1018)
- Blue (RAL 5005)
- Green (RAL 6002)
- Orange (RAL 2011)
- Purple (RAL 4001)
- Grey (RAL 7000)
Small colour deviations may be caused by the production process.
Are other colours also possible?
Other colours can also be supplied, depending on the required quantities.
Please contact a STAUFF sales representative for an individual offer.
Can rings for colour marking also be fitted when using dust covers ?
No, when using a dust cover for female bodies, the colour marking must be done via the marking clips. The male tip must be fitted with a colour marking ring.
Is two-tone colour marking also possible?
Yes, this is also possible. Half-width rings can be used to create a large number of different colour combinations. Accordingly, two rings are
required.
Please contact STAUFF for an individual offer.
Why can it be useful to use a two-tone colour marking?
It may happen that one connection is used for several lines. In this way, the dual function of the connection can be colour-coded and it becomes clear to the user that he can theoretically connect both lines.
What do I need to know about storing the rings?
The rings are subject to the same requirements as many other plastic and elastomer products.
With correct storage, the colour marking rings can be stored for up to 10 years. Correct storage means that the rings are not continuously exposed to external environmental influences.
The rings should be stored in a dry, draught-free location at constant temperatures below +25 °C and protected against ozone and strong artificial light. Failure to comply with these recommendations can cause the rings to become brittle.
Are there any restrictions with regard to media resistance?
No. Selecting the right material was one of the crucial criteria for the development of the colour marking rings.
Resistance to all media generally used in hydraulic systems was therefore of great importance. In addition to this, the ring material is also resistant to other oils, greases and a number of common solvents.
If you are unsure about the resistance of the rings to specific media or if you have any questions, please contact STAUFF for more information.
How do the rings react to extreme sunlight?
The thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) used is thermally stable and also features excellent UV resistance.