How to Use Storz Adapters?

What are Storz Adapters?

Storz adapters, also known as Storz connectors or Storz quick couplings, are a highly efficient connection system widely used in fire protection, industrial, and agricultural applications. Their core feature is a unique lug design (typically two to three lugs), making the connection process exceptionally quick and easy. Unlike traditional threaded connectors, Storz connectors simply require aligning the two connectors, pushing them in, and then gently rotating to lock them in place, achieving a seamless, leak-proof connection.

The primary function of Storz adapters is to act as adapters, connecting or converting different standards and types of connectors. They solve the connection problems between previously incompatible interfaces and are a key component for achieving equipment compatibility.

How do Storz adapters work?

Storz adapters work based on their "click-and-hold" mechanism:

Alignment: Align the lugs and grooves of the two connectors to be connected (e.g., a Storz male and a Storz female, or a Storz adapter with a standard Storz connector).

Push in: Push the sealing surfaces of both connectors fully together. A sealing gasket is typically provided inside the connector to ensure a tight seal.

Rotate: Rotate either connector (or use a special wrench) approximately 120 degrees (one-third of a turn) clockwise until the lugs are fully engaged and locked in place.

This quick locking mechanism makes it ideal for high-pressure hoses and fluid delivery systems.

How to connect different standard connectors using Storz adapters?

The core value of using Storz adapters lies in their conversion function, enabling compatibility between different systems:

1. From Storz to threaded connections (e.g., BSP or NPT)

When you need to connect a fire hose connector with a standard Storz fitting to a pump or hydrant with a threaded outlet, you need a Storz-to-thread adapter:

Select the correct adapter: Ensure one end of the adapter is the correct Storz size (e.g., DN50/2") and the other end has a matching thread specification (e.g., 2" BSP internal thread).

Connecting the Threaded End: Wrap the threaded end of the adapter with sealing tape (such as PTFE tape) and screw it into the threaded port of the target equipment (pump or hydrant).

Connecting the Storz End: Push your Storz fire hose connector into the Storz port of the adapter and then rotate to lock it.

2. Connecting Different Size Storz Fittings

If your equipment and hose have different Storz fitting sizes, you will need a reducing/enlarger Storz adapter:

Connecting the Larger Size End: Connect the larger size Storz end of the adapter to the corresponding larger fitting and lock it.

Connecting the Smaller Size End: Push the smaller size Storz fitting of the hose into the smaller size port of the adapter and then rotate to lock it.

3. Connecting to Other Quick-Connect Standards (e.g., Flanges or Camlocks)

Some industrial applications may require connecting Storz connectors to different standard fittings, such as Camlocks or flanges. In this case, you will need a Storz-to-Camlock adapter or a Storz-to-Flange adapter. The operating procedure is similar to threaded connections, bridging the two systems via an adapter.

Advantages and Precautions of Using Storz Adapters

Advantages:

• Rapid Connection: Quick operation saves valuable time in emergency response and industrial production.
• High Reliability: Securely locked, excellent sealing, and withstands high pressure.
• Versatility: As an adapter, it easily connects to different standard connectors, improving equipment utilization.
  
  

Precautions:

• Size Matching: Storz connectors are available in various nominal diameters (e.g., DN50, DN65, DN100). When using Storz adapters, ensure the adapter's Storz size matches your existing Storz connector.
  
  
• Sealing Gaskets: Ensure the sealing gaskets are intact and correctly installed; this is crucial for leak-proof connections.
  
  
• Maintenance: Regularly inspect the lugs of the fire hose connector and adapter for wear or damage to ensure safe and reliable connection.
  
  

By correctly selecting and using Storz adapters, you can efficiently and safely connect a variety of fluid transfer equipment, delivering outstanding performance for both fire emergencies and everyday industrial operations.