Parker Hannifin WireFree locking device

A wire-free device for locking the nuts of two-ferrule compression fittings on instrumentation tubing is now available from Parker Hannifin. Dubbed WireFree, the safety device is constructed almost entirely from 6 Mo austenitic stainless steel for enhanced corrosion resistance.

The locking device is designed as a ‘fit and forget’ solution that overcomes all the disadvantages of wire locking. It can be fitted to standard compression fittings on new or existing systems easily and quickly, without requiring any modification, realignment or disassembly of components. The device is also suitable for replacing existing wire locks during routine MRO operations — installers merely need to remove the wire before fitting the new unit.

Available in straight, elbow, tee and cross configurations, the locking device is initially being offered in a range of sizes for use with tube fittings from 6 to 20 mm. Parker intends to develop other sizes to suit market requirements.

The locking device is fabricated from corrosion-resistant materials to ensure a long, maintenance-free service life and is based on an open form of construction that minimises crevices. It comprises one or more flexible clamp arms with rigid load-spreading support plates, depending on configuration, and is supplied preassembled as a single-piece part to simplify installation. The support plates incorporate self-retaining M4 socket head cap screws and use Spiralock self-locking thread technology to prevent them working loose under vibration. Both the flexible and rigid components are made from 6 Mo stainless steel, while the securing screws are 316 stainless steel.