At SafeWay, a division of The Specialty Mfg. Co., we have experience addressing complex fluid transfer challenges. Learn how we collaborated with other leaders in the industry to deliver the Pivoting Blind Mate Coupling (PBMC) and how our custom engineering capabilities helped to solve specific challenges in modern systems.
Product Showcase: The PBMC
Developed as an Open Compute Project (OCP) contribution, the PBMC is an interoperable blind mate quick disconnect solution that enables reliable, hands-free connections and flexible hose routing. This unique solution is designed to support higher flow rates required for high-density compute systems and address misalignment and distance variation commonly found in modular and rack-scale deployments in the data center industry.
Key Features of the PBMC Quick Disconnect
The PBMC’s design focuses on reliability and system scalability, which are vital in liquid cooling systems for high-performance computing and other data center infrastructure. SafeWay collaborated with other manufacturers to ensure this product met rigorous interoperability standards and performance specifications.
- Blind mate technology. The plug and socket feature a pivoting mechanism that self-centers to adapt to radial and angular misalignment. The decoupled hose interface allows for a connection that is independent of the s pivot mechanism, enabling misalignment capability up to 5mm radial and 2.5 degrees of angular.
- High flow design. The quick disconnect is designed for flow rates of 36 LPM at 4.0 psi, with a working range of 72mm – 78.5mm.
- Reliability. The PBMC design has been rigorously cycle tested in various configurations to ensure long-term endurance and reliability.
- Mounting flexibility. The design supports 1RU and 10U chassis sizes with multiple mounting options, including M3 threaded holes and slotted holes for standoffs.
The Collaboration: From Concept to OCP Standard
The PBMC is the result of a collaborative effort to solve complex problems within the Open Compute Project (OCP) community. As a key contributor, SafeWay joined the team of fellow industry leaders to deliver a high-flow, interoperable solution – through a multi-phase effort:
- Feasibility study. Our team worked to understand the target performance parameters for the application to determine the feasibility of the desired solution.
- Concept to prototype. After the initial concept was determined, our team fabricated a first-of-kind design in-house and began testing.
- Confirming interoperability. Ensuring interoperability was a key requirement for this solution. To achieve this, we developed a custom test fixture designed to validate blind mate QD technology. All three manufacturers shared sample parts with each other and tested every combination. Multiple rounds of this testing were done to optimize and fine-tune the design.
The resulting PBMC design offers higher flow capabilities compared to available alternatives in order to support high-density data center infrastructure while maintaining a minimal form factor.
Looking Toward the Future: What We Can Do For You
The PBMC is just one example of how SafeWay functions as a custom solution provider, empowering your ideas and partnering in your success. With our state-of-the-art facility and experience delivering custom solutions for partners across many industries, we are able to address different engineering requirements for:
- Agriculture and Ag Tech
- Medical Devices
- Electric Vehicles (EV)
- Construction Equipment
- Thermal Management
As markets evolve and technical demands become more complex, SafeWay remains committed to staying ahead of the curve. By integrating our advanced manufacturing capabilities with your vision, we ensure that every solution is optimized for durability, precision and long-term performance.
Contact us today to schedule a technical consultation. Our team is standing by to help you navigate your unique design challenges.
