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Safety Guidelines

For the care and operation of Holmbury couplings

AlertCaution: It is important that users of the Quick Release Couplings read the following Safety Guidelines. Improper use of the Holmbury products can lead to severe injury and damage to equipment.

Holmbury couplings have established an excellent track record since their introduction in 1982. If used correctly they will give lengthy, trouble-free service. Where problems have been experienced with Holmbury couplings and returned for examination, the most common causes were found to be dirt, neglect and abuse. These guidelines are intended to help maximize the operating life of Holmbury couplings.

Safety Guidelines

CheckThe Essential Do’s

  1. Always wipe the two mating faces clean before connecting
  2. It is recommended that Dust Caps and Plugs be used when the couplings are disconnected
  3. Always align the external locking ball (if used) with the notch in the locking sleeve and then pull the locking sleeve back fully to disconnect
  4. If a coupling sticks, first check that pressure has been released. Ensure the locking ball and notch in the locking sleeve are aligned, pull back the sleeve and twist the couplings apart. Sticking is normally caused by dirt in the coupling or physical damage due to abuse
  5. Connect and disconnect new couplings two or three times to work the PTFE seals. Sometimes a new coupling will stick if the seal has not been worked
  6. When fitting couplings, only apply the spanner or grips to the hexagon and nowhere else
  7. Avoid damage to the coupling faces. Burrs and scratches cause damage to the seals and cause leaks. They can also impede connection and disconnection of the couplings
  8. Periodically lubricate the internal locking balls on the female half of the coupling with silicone grease
  9. All hydraulic systems should be protected with a good quality filter, minimum 25μ filtration is recommended. The filter should be changed at regular intervals, in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Adequate filtration ensures the oil remains free of contaminates that can damage the internal seals of the coupling
Safety Guidelines

CrossThe Essential Don't's

  1. Never attempt to reconnect using a damaged half coupling, as this will destroy the seals in the mating half and necessitate replacement of both halves
  2. Do not leave the coupling where it may be run over by a vehicle or otherwise crushed. This will distort the sleeve and prevent connection and disconnection
  3. Never try to turn the sleeve when the coupling is disconnected since this will cause the locking ball to jam under the locking sleeve and damage the coupling
  4. Never try to strip the coupling down. There are no user serviceable parts. If the coupling is damaged it should be replaced with a new coupling
  5. Never hit the centre poppet of the coupling to try and release locked in pressure. This can cause irreparable damage to the coupling and serious injury
  6. When fitting couplings, never clamp on the sleeve of the female or nose of the male – this will cause distortion and damage
  7. Never subject the couplings to external forces, especially side load. This can reduce the life of the coupling or cause failure
  8. Never allow the torsional forces transmitted from hoses to unscrew/screw together couplings. Utilise rotary couplings (See Holmbury Rotary Couplings)
  9. Never use a coupling as a plug
  10. Do not connect and disconnect with pressure in the line, unless the coupling type is specifically designed to do so
  11. Connecting a Holmbury coupling half with another manufacturer’s coupling half could damage internal seals and invalidate warranty. Check with Holmbury before mismatching couplings

Since Holmbury has no control over the use and application of its products it cannot accept liability for any injury, loss or damage arising directly or indirectly from the use of its products. Information taken from this brochure is intended to serve as a guide only. Customers should, through appropriate tests, satisfy themselves that the products are suitable for their intended use.

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