connection between float box & pan

[SilverLeaf]

What kind of connection is standard between the float box & the pan? I've been scanning a lot of pictures on the 'trader (I wish I lived closer to someone where I could come & take a look!) but can't quite make out how its configured. From what I can tell it looks to me like maybe the standard is:

-2 inch diameter SS pipe?
-instead of a nipple (which would require turning) the pipes are welded directly to the pans & somehow meet in the middle with a connector of some sort that presses together tightly with screws (how does this work, & is there an official name for this kind of connector?)

I may be having my local fab shop make me a float box, so just trying to make sure i get this right.

[jmayerl]

Sanitary fitting. Mine is 1.5", I have seen up to 3" on larger rigs

[SilverLeaf]

Is there a gasket on those sanitary fittings?

[TheMapleMoose]

I'm think there is a nylon gasket in the sanitary fittings. We put together someone's a few years ago and it had sanitary connections. Ours is 5 or 6 years old and I think it's got a fernco style connector.

[psparr]

Search ebay for tri-clover or tri-clamp fittings. You'll want a silicone gasket, they can take the heat.

[BAP]

The sanitary fittings used have been in the newer evaporators, are the same ones that have been used for many years in the dairy industry. So that may be a source for you for the fittings you need if your needs if you have a dairy supply dealer near you. The fittings are stainless and have a flange that has a groove for a gasket, which is either rubber or teflon. Then there is a clamp that fits over the two fittings being joined together and has a knob that tightens down.

[maple flats]

All my old pans had high temp. rated fernco type connectors, my new pans have the sanitary clamp type. That is far better and easier to work with. Those have 2 halves with a silicone gasket between them. The clamp circles the halves and tightening draws the halves tight easily, and just as easily can be unclamped to clean or change pans.

[mike z]

The main advantage of the sanitary fitting, like Flats states, is the ease of connecting and disconnecting. Very quick; no tools needed.