1/4" FFL to 3/16" Barb

[dmcmillen]

Does anyone know of a source for a 1/4" FFL (Female Flare) swivel to 3/16" barb?

We all use a 1/4" FFL to 1/4" barb for our liquid lines connection to the quick disconnect at the keg end but it's a real pain to insert a 1/4" barb in the 3/16" tubing especially if you're using thick wall tubing. You've got to insert the tubing into boiling water to make that happen.

I can find a 3/16" barbed tailpiece that connects to the shank end but I have not been able to find a 1/4" flare swivel that has a 3/16" barb. McMaster-Carr doesn't. The one Midwest supplies says is 3/16" barb is actually 1/4".

Anyone gotten lucky here?

 

[day_trippr]

Now that you mention it, I can't find 3/16" barbs, either.
How about 5/32"?

http://www.chicompany.net/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=375_19_220_286&products_id=501

Honestly, unless you're running PET lined barrier tubing (in which case the John Guest fittings are the way to go) 1/4" barbs are great insurance against leaks, just because you have to warm up the tubing to get it to fit. You almost don't need a clamp...

Cheers!.

 

[dmcmillen]

I guess I'd have to try one. There is a note there "FITTING NOTE: 04C03115 (5/32") IS NOT SUITABLE for use with the 3/16" BevSeal-Ultra Barrier tubing. The tubing will not compress down to this size. You must use a 1/4" barb size, such as: 04C03265" I suspect 5/32" will be too small, albeit it only a 1/32".

 

[dmcmillen]

Thanks sierrabrewer. That certainly explains it. The only consideration to using a 3/16" barb instead of a 1/4" barb for liquid line connections is that the 3/16" barb has a smaller, about 5.3/32" whereas the 1/4" barb has a true 3/16" opening. That will add more resistance on the line, possibly requiring a bit shorter line. Also, more chance of leaks. No chance of the 1/4" barb leaking.