SM5/16 | 316 Stainless Steel Bulkhead Union
The Pneuforce SM5/16 is a 316 stainless steel bulkhead union for 5/16" (nominal 8 mm) tubing. Its push-to-connect interface and FKM (Viton®) seal support maintainable pneumatic and vacuum lines where corrosion resistance and equipment washdown are important.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Part Number | SM5/16 |
| Fitting Type | Bulkhead Union |
| Tube Outside Diameter | 5/16" (nominal 8 mm) |
| Connection | Tube-to-tube connection |
| Body Material | 316 stainless steel |
| Seal Material | FKM (Viton®) |
| Primary Service | Compressed air, vacuum and non-potable water (subject to full system suitability) |
| Published S-Series Pressure | Up to 420 psi family rating; verify each assembly |
| Published Fitting Temperature | -4°F to 392°F (-20°C to 200°C); tubing and media can reduce allowable range |
How This Bulkhead Union Works
This bulkhead union joins two same-size tube lines through a panel or enclosure wall. Its mechanical bulkhead interface secures the tube connection at a fixed entry point rather than leaving a loose line through a hole.
Typical positions include machine guards, control enclosures and hygienic skid panels. Verify panel-hole, panel-thickness and mounting-clearance details before fabrication; those dimensions are not supplied here.
Typical Industrial Applications
- Pneumatic tubing passing through panel walls
- Washdown enclosure air-line transitions
- Air or vacuum connections across protective machine barriers
316 Stainless Steel and FKM Seals
The 316 stainless steel body, release components and gripping collet provide corrosion-resistant construction for washdown and demanding machinery. FKM (Viton®) seals support many air, vacuum and industrial-fluid applications, but compatibility must be assessed for the specific media and temperature.
Pneuforce publishes a family working-pressure figure of up to 420 psi for S-prefix stainless fittings and a fitting temperature range of -20 to 200°C (-4 to 392°F). Those are family specifications, not proof of suitability for every tube, fluid or assembly. Check the tubing, connection method, seal/chemical compatibility and exact product documentation before operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a bulkhead union used for?
The SM5/16 secures a pass-through connection between two sections of 5/16" (nominal 8 mm) tube at an enclosure wall or mounting panel.
What panel opening is required?
Panel-hole diameter and allowable panel thickness are installation dimensions that must be taken from an appropriate dimensional drawing; they cannot be inferred from tube outside diameter.
Is 5/16-inch tubing exactly the same as 8 mm?
No. 5/16 in is 7.9375 mm, not precisely 8 mm. Some catalogues use a nominal cross-reference, but tube fit must be confirmed from approved outside-diameter tolerances and manufacturer guidance.
Is this fitting suitable for vacuum?
Pneuforce lists this stainless push-to-connect family for compressed air and vacuum. The completed connection must use compatible tubing with a clean, undamaged outside surface, and the system must be checked for leakage at its operating vacuum.
Can I use this fitting for drinking water?
Do not assume potable-water approval. Pneuforce lists these push-in fittings for compressed air, vacuum and non-potable water; drinking-water or food-contact approvals would require separate documented certification.
What does FKM (Viton®) contribute?
FKM is the fluoroelastomer sealing material used in this fitting family. It is chosen for resistance to many oils, chemicals and elevated temperatures, but exact media compatibility depends on the fluid concentration, temperature and seal formulation.
What should I check when installing push-in tubing?
Match the tube outside diameter and approved tubing material to the fitting. Cut squarely, remove burrs, insert fully and check retention and leaks before putting the system into service. Confirm the connection can be disconnected safely after depressurizing.
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