Re-usable coupling for sanitary hoses

Abstract

A three-part, re-usable coupling for making a sanitary connection to a flexible hose is disclosed which includes a coupling body of corrosion-resistant material having a central channel for laminar flow. At one end of the central bore, the coupling body is provided with a standard sanitary conduit flange-face. At the other end the coupling body is provided with a notched, substantially cylindrical barb for insertion into the lumen of the flexible hose. An externally threaded section lies between the two ends of the coupling body. A split collar or sleeve which is at least as long as the barb has an externally tapered surface and a cylindrical, internal, threaded surface applies uniform compression to the end-portion of the flexible hose through which the barb is inserted. A nut having an internal taper that matches the external taper of the split collar makes up on the external threads of the coupling body urging the split collar to firmly secure the hose to the barb. The introduction of the substantially cylindrical barb into the lumen of the flexible hose avoids the creation of any crevices that could give rise to capillary action that could lead to the unwanted accumulation of material from the fluid stream carried by the hose. The coupling can be reused when it becomes necessary to replace the hose to which it is attached.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.