Inline Connector Removal: Mini-Ductor^® Application

Inline connectors, such as those found in use on brake lines, fuel and transmission lines are often difficult to repair. As the flats (nut portion) is smaller, it is not unusual to strip them (round off corners), with the help of either a vise grip or by cutting it off and patching in a repair section. This all takes time and therefore added expense for you and your customer.

As you know, the traditional method is to use a naked flame torch and/or penetrating oil. These applications are inefficient and damaging. For example, using a naked flame does not pinpoint or focus the heat exactly where you need it. There is also the danger of an open flame near plastic shields and other components, since you cannot control were the flame goes.

How Does It Work?

By using the market-leading handheld Mini-Ductor induction heating tool, there’s no longer any need to use a potentially dangerous torch or open flame to remove parts. Not only is it more reliable, faster and doesn’t damage the area around the part, its bendable coils get around corners or reach deep hard to access areas that a torch cannot get to.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• Equipment needed: heat resistant gloves, overalls, goggles and a respirator mask (if smoke will be produced from heating)
• Knowledge required: a well-reviewed proficiency of the Mini-Ductor’s safety and operating instructions

Step 1: Select the right size coil for the intended purpose. The inside diameter of the coil should encompass the area desired to be heated.

Step 2: Separate the coils windings at the center just slightly wider than the object to be heated.

Step 3: Insert the coil into the Mini-Ductor and secure the thumb screws tightly.

Step 4: Place the coil over the In-line connector and into the gap you just created in the coil. Re-adjust coil opening if necessary.

Step 5: Energize unit for 10* seconds and attempt to loosen. Repeat as necessary being cautious not to overheat or turn red hot.

*Time will vary subject to size/mass of object.

Safety Guidelines

• If Inline connector is a tube, it may have combustible liquids contained within
• Liquids expand with heat and do not compress and may be flammable and may lead to an explosion
• Tubing carrying such liquids should be drained first, otherwise the next weakest point in such a system may burst such as a rubber hose somewhere down the line
• The system needs to be purged somewhere to prevent pressure from building up – this should only be done in a safe well ventilated area free of other combustibles and with a fully charged fire extinguisher at hand
• Overheating may jeopardize the structural integrity of the connector/hardware, so use heat indicators or monitor with a IR temperature sensing device – if compromised or suspected, replace the inline connector hardware

Contact us to learn more about removing inline connectors with induction heating