A breakaway coupling, also known as a safety breakaway coupling, provides controlled separation in the event of excessive force or accidental pull. These couplings prevent unwanted product release, reduce spillage, and enhance operator safety.
In this article, we will look at what breakaway couplings are, how they work, and the benefits of using them in industries ranging from petrochemical to gas transfer.
What is Breakaway Coupling?
So, what is breakaway coupling? In a nutshell, a breakaway coupling is a specialised connector fitted into a hose line or loading arm system. It’s a weak link that will break at a fixed point when subjected to a set amount of tension or force. This controlled break prevents unwanted product release, reduces the risk of accidents, and protects the operator and the environment from harm.
How Do Safety Breakaway Couplings Work?
Here’s how:
- Installation and Connection: A breakaway coupling is fitted into a hose line or connected to loading arms at a fixed point in the system.
- Separation Mechanism: Each breakaway coupling has a weak link that will break or separate when a set force is exceeded.
- Valves to Stop Flow: Most safety breakaway couplings have valves that close automatically when they separate, stopping the product flow.
Applications and Industries
Some examples include:
- Petrochemical Transfer: Breakaway couplings for oil, chemical, and gas transfer to prevent spillage and accidents.
- Gas Transfer: Breakaway couplings prevent accidental product release when transferring to road tankers or ships.
- Ship-to-Shore Loading: Breakaway couplings allow safer loading with less spillage and environmental damage.
- Road Tanker Loading and Unloading: Breakaway couplings provide added safety during road tanker operations, where hoses and loading arms are prone to sudden disconnection.
Materials and Specifications
The materials used are:
- Stainless Steel: Ideal for chemical and petrochemical applications.
- Aluminium: Suitable where weight is a concern.
- Brass: Offers good corrosion resistance for lower-pressure systems.
Breakaway couplings are available to meet different specifications and requirements. Make sure you use the right material and size for your application to ensure safety and performance.
Benefits
- Prevents Spillage and Environmental Contamination: The coupling breaks at a fixed point and shuts off the product flow instantly, preventing unwanted spillage and environmental contamination.
- Reduces Equipment Damage: A breakaway coupling prevents damage to hoses, loading arms, and other equipment, which can lead to costly repairs.
- Operator Safety: Breakaway couplings reduce the operator’s risk of product release during accidental disconnection.
- Minimises Fire or Explosion Risk: Stopping the flow of hazardous material instantly upon separation is critical to prevent fires or explosions.
- Works in Any Direction: Breakaway couplings function effectively regardless of the pull angle.
Installation and Maintenance
The coupling must be fitted at a fixed point in the hose or loading arm system, with alignment allowing for safe separation in case of excessive tension.
Signs of wear or damage must be addressed immediately, as a damaged coupling may not function correctly in an emergency.
Sizes and Working Pressure
Breakaway couplings are available in various sizes and working pressures. Ensure you choose the right size and pressure rating for your system and the expected pressure.
Safety in High-Risk Environments
By stopping the flow of hazardous material instantly upon separation, these couplings reduce the risk of accidents, protect the environment, and enhance operator safety.
Using breakaway couplings is a proactive measure for any business involved in the transfer of hazardous materials, especially in the chemical, petrochemical, and gas industries.
Summary
In summary, breakaway couplings, or safety breakaway couplings, are essential for the safe transfer of hazardous materials. As a controlled point of separation, they prevent unwanted product release, accidents, equipment damage, and environmental harm. Available in stainless steel, aluminium, and brass, and suitable for applications such as road tanker loading, ship-to-shore transfer, and petrochemical transfer, breakaway couplings are an essential component for safety in industries worldwide.
