GRA-TEC MODULAR SPACE-AGE FITTING CONCEPT

In the very early years of America's space exploration program, GRA-TEC was awarded a contract to design and build a man-sized, variable-stature robot. The robot was used for testing space suits at the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's Manned Space Flight Control Center. The job turned out to be a plumber's nightmare. It required a plumbing system that could supply: Pressure and flow capability Ease of assembly and disassembly in tight quarters Rapid modification Reliability

Actual vintage photographs showing space suit and components being tested in GRA-TEC laboratory.

To solve the problem, GRA-TEC designed a revolutionary modular fitting system.

The design separated the traditional "crushfit" pipe thread from the torque sensitive tube connection, and the result was a modular system with the unique problem solving and cost saving advantages of: Fast connect and disconnect Leak free connection Swivel capability Unmatched versatility for mix and match sizes Greater package density Each component has modular replacement capability Shock absorption Reduced inventory Full flow Reduced pressure drop Rated for vacuum and pressure