Abstract: According to one aspect, a quick disconnect connector is provided. The quick disconnect connector includes a first component and a second component which is matable with the first component. A releasing element is engageable with at least one of the first component and the second component to unmate the first component and the second component. A locking element is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element, in the locked position, engages the releasing element to prevent the releasing element from unmating the first component and the second component. The locking element is movable from the unlocked position to the locked position by application of a locking force to the locking element. The locking force can be applied to the locking element by fluid being carried by the quick-disconnect connector.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a quick disconnect connector is provided. The quick disconnect connector includes a first component and a second component which is matable with the first component. A releasing element is engageable with at least one of the first component and the second component to unmate the first component and the second component. A locking element is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element, in the locked position, engages the releasing element to prevent the releasing element from unmating the first component and the second component. The locking element is movable from the unlocked position to the locked position by application of a locking force to the locking element. The locking force can be applied to the locking element by fluid being carried by the quick-disconnect connector.

Abstract: According to one aspect, a quick disconnect connector is provided. The quick disconnect connector includes a first component and a second component which is matable with the first component. A releasing element is engageable with at least one of the first component and the second component to unmate the first component and the second component. A locking element is movable between a locked position and an unlocked position. The locking element, in the locked position, engages the releasing element to prevent the releasing element from unmating the first component and the second component. The locking element is movable from the unlocked position to the locked position by application of a locking force to the locking element. The locking force can be applied to the locking element by fluid being carried by the quick-disconnect connector.

Abstract: A connector for use in a contaminated environment is provided. The connector includes first and second couplers which are coupled together to produce a fluid path through the connector. Prior to coupling of the first and second couplers, the first and second couplers include plastic caps for minimizing the contaminants on the couplers. Elastomer face seals which can be contaminated are mated against one another compressing to expel contaminants and trapping contaminants between the elastomer face seals. The elastomer face seals are captured between a pair of O-rings. Parts of the elastomer face seals are flushed with fluid as the connector is coupled to further reduce contamination. All internal passages and the elastomer face seals are treated with an antimicrobial compound. The connector vents to the atmosphere during engagement of the first and second couplers such that the connector can operate at a higher pressure with reduced engagement force.

Abstract: A connector for use in a contaminated environment is provided. The connector includes first and second couplers which are coupled together to produce a fluid path through the connector. Prior to coupling of the first and second couplers, the first and second couplers include plastic caps for minimizing the contaminants on the couplers. Elastomer face seals which can be contaminated are mated against one another compressing to expel contaminants and trapping contaminants between the elastomer face seals. The elastomer face seals are captured between a pair of O-rings. Parts of the elastomer face seals are flushed with fluid as the connector is coupled to further reduce contamination. All internal passages and the elastomer face seals are treated with an antimicrobial compound. The connector vents to the atmosphere during engagement of the first and second couplers such that the connector can operate at a higher pressure with reduced engagement force.