ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors for Airtightness Testing

Overview of the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

The ITHC series quick connectors are engineered for airtightness and pressure testing of components with internal thread ports. Designed for production-line and laboratory test environments, these connectors establish an instant, repeatable seal between the test instrument and the threaded test piece, reducing setup time compared with threaded fittings that require manual wrench tightening. Each connector features a front O-ring that creates an end-face seal against the surface surrounding the threaded opening.

The series covers four thread standards: metric ISO (M10×0.75 through M33×3.0), G (BSPP), BSPT, and NPT, with sizes ranging from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. Seven outline dimensions are available, each corresponding to a specific thread size range. Enterprise customers requiring non-standard lengths or plug configurations can request customized variants.

Key Features of the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

Three Actuation Configurations

The ITHC series is offered in three actuation types to suit different automation levels. The H-type employs a manual handle mechanism: the operator presses the handle to insert the connector into the threaded port and releases it to lock the connection. The V-type uses a pneumatic valve button for actuation, requiring a manual press of the valve while connected to a compressed air supply. The P-type is fully pneumatically operated via an external air source, making it suitable for integration into automated test stations where the connector is actuated by the system control logic.

Corrosion-Resistant Construction and Seal Options

The main structural components are manufactured from corrosion-resistant stainless steel and aluminum alloy, providing durability in industrial environments. The standard main seal is nitrile rubber (NBR), which offers good compatibility with compressed air and common test gases across typical temperature ranges. For applications involving high cycle counts or abrasive test piece surfaces, polyurethane seals are available as an alternative, offering improved wear resistance. The connector achieves a reference leakage rate of 10⁻³ mbar·L/s, equivalent to 10⁻⁴ Pa·m³/s, with lower-leakage configurations available subject to customer specifications and sample quality verification.

Pressure Capability and Drive Air Requirements

The ITHC connectors support test pressures up to 200 bar at the test port (Inlet B) and are compatible with vacuum testing applications. The drive air for V-type and P-type configurations requires 6 to 12 bar compressed air at ports P1 and P2, while the test medium supply at port P operates within 4 to 12 bar using clean compressed air. It is important to note that the front O-ring end-face seal requires adequate surface flatness and roughness on the test specimen sealing surface for reliable performance. Customers should provide sample parts or CAD drawings for seal compatibility verification.

Technical Specifications of the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

Operating Steps

1. Press the handle to insert the quick connector into the threaded component under test;

2. Release the handle to quickly connect the connector.

H-type

Handle operation:

Operated by pressing the handle manually

V-type

Pneumatic valve control:

Operated by pressing the pneumatic valve manually

P-type

External air source control:

Controlled via an external air source connected to the connector

Specification and Dimension

Technical Specifications of the ITHD Series

Metrical ISO Thread

Special configurations of ITHC series quick connectors:

The extended ITHC series quick connector is designed for pressure testing of internally threaded components with limited external space and can be customized according to specific customer requirements.

Applications of the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

ITHC connectors are widely used by automotive component manufacturers for testing engine blocks, cylinder heads, oil filter housings, and transmission casings with threaded oil or coolant ports. In the HVAC and refrigeration industry, commercial users employ these connectors for pressure testing compressor housings and heat exchanger manifolds. Medical device manufacturers use them for leak testing threaded ports on gas delivery components, while hydraulic and pneumatic valve producers rely on them for production-line pressure verification. The instant-connect design is particularly valuable in high-volume manufacturing where connector setup time directly affects line throughput.

Ordering Information for the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

When placing an order, business buyers should specify the following information to ensure correct configuration: the required part number or thread size and standard, the test pressure range, the test medium and required leakage rate, the operating temperature range, space or clearance requirements, and the test piece dimensions or CAD drawings. If a suitable standard configuration is not found in the catalog, custom lengths, plug variants, and alternative seal materials can be requested.

FAQ About the ITHC Internal-Thread Quick Connectors

What thread standards are available for the ITHC series?

The ITHC series covers metric ISO threads (M10×0.75 to M33×3.0), G (BSPP) threads, BSPT threads, and NPT threads, with sizes from 1/8 inch to 1 inch. Each thread size corresponds to a specific part number.

What is the difference between H-type, V-type, and P-type actuation?

H-type is manually operated via a handle. V-type uses a pneumatic valve button for manual actuation with compressed air. P-type is fully controlled by an external air source, suitable for automated systems.

What is the maximum test pressure for ITHC connectors?

The test port (Inlet B) supports pressures up to 200 bar. The connectors are also compatible with vacuum testing. Drive air for V-type and P-type models requires 6 to 12 bar compressed air.

What surface finish does the test piece need for the O-ring seal?

The front O-ring creates an end-face seal and requires adequate surface flatness and roughness on the test specimen. Customers should provide sample parts or CAD drawings for seal compatibility verification.

Can ITHC connectors be customized?

Yes. Extended or reduced lengths, plug configurations, and alternative seal materials such as polyurethane for high-wear applications can be customized based on customer requirements and sample evaluation.