The patented T-SEP Assembly is designed to maintain separation and alignment within pneumatic tube delivery systems while significantly reducing the opportunity for crevice corrosion. Since its inception in 2000, Production Fastening Systems’ T-SEP Assembly has continued to evolve.
TIMELINE OF THE T-SEP ASSEMBLY
2000– Introduction of the Tube Spacer used with a Tubing Line Clip
2008– Introduction of the Modified Tube Spacer used with Half Round Thermoplastic and Flat Bar
2012– Introduction of the Non-Metallic Tube Spacer
2013– Non-Metallic Spacer refined with “Snap-in-Place” Technology & Introduction of new Delta Bar shaped Thermoplastic Geometry to increase airflow
PFS introduced the signature Delta shaped bar as an integral and proprietary feature of the T-SEP in 2013. The purpose of the top retainer Delta Bar is to clamp tubing in place. It succeeds in preventing liquid corrosion by elevating tube runs off of flat surfaces, which is as important as separating tubes from one another. When fastened directly to a flat surface, the opportunity for long lasting contact with corrosive liquids rises.
Traditionally, parallel runs of pneumatic tubing have been separated by “saddles” or “notching”; methods that can effectively separate tubing, but seem to invite corrosive elements to gather inside of the gaps created by this method of tube separation. To avoid creating crevices above and/or beneath the tube runs which could harbor corrosive materials and go unseen, PFS avoids notching the Delta Bar. Notched rods also present installation issues due to the lack of a temporary fastening resource. The Delta Bar is extruded from 1” round bars and machined into 1/2” Delta shaped rods. The signature PFS Delta shape achieves three major goals:
- Strength: The triangular shape provides the strongest geometry possible. When force is applied, it is evenly dispersed through all three sides.
- Impact: The summit of the Delta, where tubes will engage, is slightly rounded to lessen the impact point.
- Airflow: Perhaps the most important aspect of this equation maximizing airflow. Increased airflow prevents oxygen starvation, a process where stagnant air smothers its surroundings due to lack of airflow and often results in rapid corrosion and pitting of the tubing. In similar fastening applications, a half-round structure is utilized to clamp the tubing. Beyond being a weaker geometry, half-round structures also allow less airflow at the points of contact.
As the latest innovation in the ongoing evolution of the T-SEP, the benefits of the Delta Bar are many. Through diligent research and utilization of evolving technology, PFS stands by the T-SEP assembly as the most efficient and updated method of pneumatic tube separation. Contact one of our specialists today if you have any questions or would like to place an order.
