Install Transair Clamshell Fittings in 11 Easy Steps

For proper connection and extra security, Parker Transair uses clamshell fittings for 3" (76mm), 4" (101mm), and 6" (168mm) aluminum pipes. These fittings are ideal for bigger diameters because they eliminate the need for push force (push-to-connect fittings) and hand torquing (snap ring fittings). These fittings can be installed using a battery operated or corded drill, saving time and reducing the chance for personal injury. Clamshell fittings use 4 bolts and a cartridge to make a tight seal between 2 sections of pipe, or a pipe and fitting. As with the rest of the Transair product line, minimal tooling and technical expertise are required for proper installation. 

Clamshell connection technology is the last of the three connection technologies used on Transair aluminum pipe. The use of three different connection technologies ensures that every diameter is safe, fast, and easy to install. Just like push-to-connect and snap ring, clamshell fittings are rated for compressed air, vacuum, and industrial/inert gases.  

• Push-to-connect technology is used with 1/2" to 1-1/2" pipe (common applications: airdrops to machines and tools) 

• Snap ring technology is used with 2" & and 2-1/2" pipe (common applications: compressor outlets and media distribution)

• Clamshell technology is used with 3" to 6" pipe (common applications: compressor outlets and media distribution)

 

Installing CUT lengths of 3", 4", and 6" Transair Aluminum Pipe in eleven steps

By following these simple steps, you will be an expert installer of Transair clamshell fittings. Cut lengths of 3", 4", and 6" pipe requires you to follow 11 simple steps.

Our video shows you how:

 

 

1. Measure and mark the pipe for cutting

 

2. Cut the pipe

Place the pipe cutter (EW08 00 03) on the pipe at the desired cutting mark. Rotate the pipe cutter around until the pipe is cut After each full turn, gently tighten the wheel to tighten the cutting wheel. DO NOT use a hack or band saw to cut the pipe

 

 

 

3. Remove debris 

Carefully chamfer the outer edge of the pipe using a file. Then, deburr the inner edge of the pipe using the deburring tool (6698 04 02). 

 

 

 

 

 

4. Lug the pipe

Insert the appropriate lugging jaws (dependent on size) into the housing on the lugging tool (EW01 00 02). Next, place the jaws around the end of the cut pipe and pull the trigger to create the lug. This process needs to be completed multiple times to get a ring of lugs around the pipe. The suggested number of lugs is dependent on the pipe diameter. (see chart below).

CAUTION: DO NOT overlap the lugs!

 

5. Place the cartridge on the pipe

Slide the cartridge over the end of the pipe until it is stopped by the lugs.

 

 

 

 

 

6. Place the second pipe or fitting

Slide the second pipe or fitting into place until the cartridge meets the lug.

 

7. Position the clamshell fitting

Open the fitting, and position the clamshell over the assembly. The cartridge should fall in the middle of the connector. 

 

 

 

 

8. Tighten the bolts

Using an Allen wrench, tighten the bolts in a cross pattern. 

 

9. Pull the assembly

Grab the assembly on either side of the fitting and pull back away from the clamshell fitting.

 

10. Finish tightening the bolts

Using a drill, finish tightening the bolts using a cross pattern.

Transair Diameter	Allen Wrench Size
3" (76mm)	6mm
4" (101mm)	6mm
6" (168mm)	8mm

 

 

 

 

11. Install pipe hangers

To ensure the proper stability of the system, we suggest the use of at least two (2) hangers per pipe. Allow for a maximum of 16 feet of space between hangers for 20-foot lengths of pipe.

 

Installing FULL lengths of 3", 4", and 6" Transair aluminum pipe in seven easy steps

 

1. Place the cartridge on the pipe

Slide the cartridge over the end of the pipe until it is stopped by the lugs.

 

2. Place the second pipe or fitting

Slide the second pipe or fitting into place until the cartridge meets the lug.

 

 

 

 

3. Position the clamshell fitting

Open the fitting, and position the clamshell over the assembly. The cartridge should fall in the middle of the connector. 

 

 

 

4. Tighten the bolts

Using an Allen wrench, tighten the bolts in a cross pattern. 

Transair Diameter	Allen Wrench Size
3" (76mm)	6mm
4" (101mm)	6mm
6" (168mm)	8mm

 

5. Pull the assembly

Grab the assembly on either side of the fitting and pull back away from the clamshell fitting.

 

 

 

 

6. Finish tightening the bolts

Using a drill, finish tightening the bolts using a cross pattern

 

7. Install pipe hangers

To ensure proper stability of the system, we suggest the use of at least two (2) hangers per pipe. 

• Maximum of 16 feet of space between hangers for 20-foot lengths of pipe

 

Golden rules of safety

• Only use Transair connectors/accessories Transair pipe. (Mixing Transair with a competitive product will void the 10-year warranty).

• Do not hang external equipment from the Transair pipe.

• Only use Transair aluminum pipe for compressed air, vacuum, or industrial/inert gas applications. (Contact the factory for other media).

• Place Transair pipe in a sleeve if the install will be in dirt or solid masses.

 

This post was contributed by Jim Tuma, marketing services manager, Parker Fluid System Connectors Division.

 

 

 

 

Related Posts:

Install Transair Push to Connect Fittings in 7 Easy Steps

Install Transair Snap Ring Fittings in 10 Easy Steps

Avoid Environmental Effect with Qualicoat Certified Air Piping

 

Categories

• Fluid and Gas Handling
• Industrial
• Piping Systems