FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can The Fitting Be Reused?

A: No, the fitting is a single-use item. When the wrench is tightened, the ferrule forms around the outer dimension (OD) of the tube and clamps down on the OD of the tube.

Q: Since It Is a Single Use Product, What Happens When/if I Need To Move the Equipment?

A: We recommend cutting the tube away from the tube nut and then reconnecting it with a straight union.

Q: Can the Fitting Be Taken Apart?

A: No. If the fitting is disassembled prior to installation, the warranty is voided. We cannot ensure that the fitting will be reassembled back correctly after it is disassembled. We have a strict and thorough manufacturing and quality assurance system in place to make sure all components are positioned properly.

Q: Why Can’t the Positioning Strip Be Removed From the Box?

A: The positioning strip keeps the components aligned in the proper position to allow the tube to be easily inserted. Removing the position strip before the specified step in the installation guide could potentially complicate the sealing process.

Q: Do the Smartlock Fittings Require a Torque Wrench/Torque Specification?

A: No. SmartLock fittings do not require any special tools, even a torque wrench. It is specifically designed so the installer will not have to worry about torque specification. We offer torque data for each model and it can be found under the Resource tab.

Q: What Is the Function of the Elastomeric Rings That Is Part of the Fitting?

A: The elastomeric rings are for vibration dampening and keeping environmental elements such as dust and moisture out. They do NOT seal the refrigerant line.

Q: Can You Use Hard and Soft Copper Tubes With Smartlock Fittings?

A: Yes, absolutely!

Q: Can You Use Out of Round Tubes?

A: Yes. As the SmartLock fittings create a permanent seal onto the valve and/or tube, the condition of the tube doe does not have to be perfectly round. If the tubes are too round, they will not inset properly. The tube will need to be reshaped so it can be inserted into the fitting.

Q: What if the Tube Is Damaged or Scratched Near Where the Connection Is Going To Be Made?

A: SmartLock fittings can accept some minor scratches but recommend a clean, undamaged surface to ensure a proper installation and seal.

Q: Do I Need to Deburr?

A: No. Even if tube ends are sharp, they will not damage the metal ferrule.

Q: Can Smartlock Fittings Be Used With Copper on One Side and Aluminum on the Other Side?

A: Yes, absolutely! Standard SmartLock fittings are designed to connect copper to copper, aluminum to aluminum, and copper to aluminum tubing. For example, SmartLock HVAC fittings eliminate the need to braze copper to aluminum coils.

Q: What About Dissimilar Metal Issues?

A: SmartLock HVAC fittings do not have any issues with dissimilar metals. Material selection and specialization manufacturing processes have been designed and chosen to prevent cathodic-type reactions.

Q: What Refrigerants Are the Fittings Compatible With?

A: All refrigerant fittings are compatible with SmartLock fittings. This is due to the metal-to-metal sealing technology.

Q: What Is the Fitting Material?

A: Anodized aluminum and proprietary material for the ferrule.

Q: How Close Can You Braze to a Smartlock Fitting if There Is A Requirement to Braze Close to It?

A: Global SmartLock Group cannot specify how close or how far away an installer needs to be if they choose to braze near SmartLock fitting. We recommend that the installer use the same care if they were to braze near a service valve, like a cooling blanket, to keep the temperature down.

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