Push-Fit Hose Coupling

Michel Tube's Switch&Lock 360 push-fit coupling stands out for its extremely simple handling: the user only has to push the male and female parts together, without paying attention to the position of the female coupling. Thanks to the locking pin (Verriegelungsbolzen), the locking is both clearly audible and visible — because the pin has an optical indicator / red marking. This means that especially in hard-to-reach places or when viewed from a distance, it can be seen immediately whether the system has locked correctly.

It is almost impossible for the system to come apart by itself, even under vibration. Thanks to the guidance of the two bodies and the radii in the sleeves, the user can push it together easily and cleanly even if the hose is twisted (torsion) — first the sleeves slide over each other, then the conveying tube dips into the push-fit sleeve. The system thus stands out with two guide tubes that provide mechanical stability.

The coupling can be pushed together at any angle through 360°. To separate it, the specially shaped spring pin (Federbolzen) is lifted with one hand or two.

3 different types are available: Female Part - Cap, Female Part - Hose Connection, Male Part - Tube Connection. Available in 4 different diameters (Ø 40.0 – Ø 60.0 mm).

Switch & Lock 360: a design that solves twisting

The distinguishing feature of push-fit couplings is that they can rotate through 360°. With the coupling connected, the hose rotates freely about its own axis; whatever angle the operator approaches from, the hose does not twist.

Twisting looks like a small detail but its effect is cumulative: the inner cross-section of a twisted hose narrows, the flow resistance rises and the hose life shortens. At a point connected dozens of times a day this wear accelerates.

The speed advantage

The push-fit design connects and releases in a single movement; there is no need to turn a lever or tighten a screw. At coupling stations with frequent material changes, seconds add up to shift time.

At which point it is preferred

• Stations where the operator approaches from different angles
• Connections where the hose moves constantly, is wound and unwound
• Distribution tables where a large number of changes are made a day

Maintenance

In push-fit mechanisms the locking surfaces are sensitive to granulate dust; a contaminated lock no longer seats fully over time, and the coupling can separate under vacuum. Periodic cleaning and a check of lock wear are more important with this type than with the others.

In tight spaces the screw coupling, and for a fast and economical solution the camlock types, can be considered; the comparison is on the hose couplings page.