ASSEMBLY BASICS

The assembly procedure of the application is fundamental to ensure the correct operation of the Stopflex system. As a matter of fact, failure to carefully follow the assembly instructions, may actually jeopardise the operation of the system. After numerous tests on the test benches, we found the ideal combination of materials and assembly procedure to ensure the utmost efficiency in the system.
  • Given environmental conditions such as ultraviolet light, ozone, salty water, chemical agents (solvents, fuels, oils, greases, volatile chemical compounds, acids, disinfectants and other aggressive elements) can cause early deterioration of the band seal;
  • The seal must be replaced every 4 years if the band is not assembled;
  • The seal must be replaced every 2 years if the band is assembled;
  • The STOPFLEX system must never be re-used in case of hose rupture, slip-off or replacement of the hose, as this will jeopardise the initial safety features of the system. Should the system be re-used, the assembler will be held entirely liable therefor.
  • Not suitable for high-pressure air and compressed gas hoses.

DISENGAGEMENT

The Stopflex system does not operate during the step of disengaging the flexible hose, but, if applied correctly, it ensures that the hose is fully disengaged from the ferrule that restrains it. During this step, the flexible hose gains velocity and power due to the pressure increase of the oil contained therein.

RELEASE/VENTING OF PRESSURE

During this step, the pressurised oil exits from the flexible hose. The hose begins to release the energy contained therein, and gains considerable velocity, triggering a hazardous “whip effect” which is very dangerous to anyone or anything in its vicinity.

RESTRAINT

Once the hose has been disengaged and the pressure released, the flexible hose can be restrained. This is where the Stopflex system gets into operation: the steel cable is tensioned and deformed while the plate cuts into the rubber of the hose, preventing the clamp, firmly attached to the hose, from disengaging. The hose clamp and plate start to deform in turn, elastically absorbing the force released from the travel of the flexible hose.
This is a critical step which occurs within just a few seconds in which the materials and the components of the system, previously sized and tested, stop the dangerous travel of the flexible hose.