Never been convinced by the Swiftech blocks myself, they seem to develop it when problems are found by users, like the corrosion issues with the original, (so now it's all anodised). The open chamber is less than ideal even with the dimples, but they've made it harder to fit normal barbs as well. Worse still are these statements:-
Quote:
Convenient built-in quick-connect fittings: in another industry-first, the MCW462-U features built-in quick-connect fittings for 3/8" OD tubing. Quick-connect fittings are preferred to hose barbs and compression fittings because of their safety and ease of use. The built-in design also offers slightly improved flow, compared to elbow connectors used in previous MCW462 models.
Compatibility with soft vinyl tubing: the fittings are fully compatible with soft vinyl tubing. This type of tubing is easier to bend around tight corners, and completely transparent.
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Not only do most users not want these type of fittings, They cannot possibly be safe with vinyl tubing unless the vinyl has an insert, (which would further reduce the ID.)
Vinyl will Compress after a while forming a set shape, and if moved to a different position can leak. I'd also be unhappy if they could be pulled out fairly easily, like vinyl can if I try it in my push in fittings, which indecently look better quality than the Swiftech ones.
Although it looks quite nice from an image point of view, and well made, it's another missed opportunity for Swiftech to come up with something truly revolutionary imo. They seem to be always one step behind the game. I'd be quite happy to eat my words if it blows everything else away
. The point Joe makes about trapped air is also very valid
On the barb or fitting size issue, I still maintain that larger can be better but it wont necessarily be so, once you have enough flow rate more is not required, bit like fitting larger fuel lines from your cars petrol tank to the engine.
I'm running this block I bought from NZ recently, (and with a few mods). Its running 1/2" barbs reamed out to 10mm ID. It's performing much better than my OCH Z3 block, a lot of which is down to clamping issues I think. After testing two OCH blocks one with 3/8" barbs one with reamed out 1/2" barbs (10mm ID) the best I could say is it was possibly 1°C better with the reamed out 1/2", but that's with the socket diode rubbish so is debatable.