Swivel Barb Adapter

Idex Swivel Barb Adapters

Idex Swivel Barb Adapters are designed to connect soft-walled tubing to threaded receiving ports while preventing tubing twist during installation or removal. Unlike traditional one-piece barbed adapters—where the barb rotates with the fitting—Swivel Barb Adapters feature a two-piece, freely rotating design that allows the threaded portion to turn independently from the barbed stem. This protects delicate tubing, improves connection reliability, and simplifies routine setup changes.

These adapters are ideal for applications such as connecting peristaltic pump tubing to selection valves, low-pressure chromatography systems, and general laboratory fluid handling. Engineered to accommodate a range of soft-walled tubing inner diameters, Swivel Barb Adapters provide secure, low-stress connections while maintaining smooth workflow and long tubing life.

PART NO TUBING ID THREADS THRU-HOLE MATERIAL
Swivel Barb Adapters
D-646 1/16" (1.55 mm) 1/4-28 Flat Bottom 0.03" (0.75 mm) Polypropylene
D-647 3/32" (2.40 mm) 1/4-28 Flat Bottom 0.056" (1.5 mm) Polypropylene
D-648 1/8" (3.20 mm) 1/4-28 Flat Bottom 0.08" (2.0 mm) Polypropylene

Key Definitions
Swivel Barb Adapter
A two-piece barbed fitting designed so the threaded connection rotates independently from the barbed stem, preventing soft-walled tubing from twisting during installation or removal.
Soft-Walled Tubing
Flexible tubing materials—such as silicone, Tygon®, or other elastomers—commonly used in peristaltic pumping and low-pressure fluid transfer applications.
Barbed Connection
A tubing interface that uses raised ridges (barbs) to grip the inside wall of soft tubing, creating a secure mechanical seal without clamps or adhesives.
Threaded Receiving Port
A female-threaded port—such as 1/4-28 or 10-32—commonly found on valves, pumps, and manifolds, designed to accept threaded fluidic adapters.
Peristaltic Pump Interface
A fluid connection point where flexible tubing is routed through a peristaltic pump and connected to downstream components without exposing the fluid to moving pump parts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main advantage of a swivel barb adapter?
Swivel barb adapters prevent soft-walled tubing from twisting during installation or removal, helping extend tubing life and maintain a secure, leak-free connection.
When should I use a swivel barb instead of a standard barbed adapter?
Swivel barb adapters are recommended when working with flexible tubing connected to threaded ports, especially in applications where frequent connection and disconnection could otherwise cause tubing twist.
Are swivel barb adapters suitable for peristaltic pump applications?
Yes. Swivel barb adapters are commonly used with peristaltic pump tubing because they reduce mechanical stress on soft-walled tubing during connection to valves, manifolds, or other threaded components.
What tubing sizes are compatible with swivel barb adapters?
Swivel barb adapters are available in multiple barb sizes to accommodate a range of soft-walled tubing inner diameters. Always match the barb size to the tubing ID for optimal sealing and retention.