Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Control panels redesigned by pneumatics specialist

Parker Pneumatic control systems are now specified for automatic drum forming and welding machines which enable 210 litre drums to be welded along their length at up to 800 drums per hour

Parker pneumatic control systems are now specified for automatic drum forming and welding machines manufactured by Dudley-based British Federa - a world leader in resistance welding technology, equipment and controls - which enable 210 litre drums to be welded along their length at production rates of up to 800 drums per hour.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 6 December 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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Sensor monitors sophisticated weaponry
MBDA is using Parker's CM20 white light portable particle counter for monitoring the condition of the various hydraulic fluids used in Rapier FSC

Hydraulic solution supplied for milking machines
Parker products are enabling milking machines to offer increased productivity through precise hydraulic control, as well as simplifying maintenance

British Federal has recently supplied a DW100/6 100 kVA drum forming and welding machine as part of a £300,000 order from the Shanwei Group, a chemical adhesive product manufacturer in Zhuhai, PR China.

The machine is equipped with a swing arm 'touch pad' and MP3HPS-DW welding controls and is able to weld 210 litre drums at up to 720 units per hour.

The length of the drums being made is 914 mm with an inner diameter of 571 mm using 1.0 mm thick material.

The specification of Parker Pneumatic control systems results from the ability of the company's specialist Systems Design Department to completely redesign and reduce the size of the machines' existing control panel - at lower cost and without compromising quality - in order that it could be relocated within the framework of the existing machine.

'The original control panel was fixed to the side of the machine and, although the main body of the machine was relatively narrow, the control panel increased the width considerably - but only in this one area', says Nigel Morris, British Federal's Product Manager for specialised products.
Further reading

Directional control valves suit mobile equipment
The P70 pressure-compensating spool range offers exceptional levels of efficiency and accuracy by minimising pressure drop and heat generation across the valve

Pneumatic products improve vehicle washing
Parker pneumatic cylinders in Smith Bros and Webb brush arms reduce bounce as the brushes come into contact with the vehicle and ensure effective cleaning

Hydraulic pump suits mobile applictations
Parker Hannifin's VP1-95 hydraulic pump is suitable for most load sensing valve systems and offers multi-functionality for any hydraulic application where power and precise control are required

'Parker Pneumatic gave us a control panel around 50% smaller than the previous panel - which is now located within the existing framework and reduces the overall size of the machine.' The control panel for the system - measuring 570 mm by 570 mm by 150 mm - consists of a 'U' section fabricated steel plate onto the underside of which all of the Parker Pneumatic control equipment is surface mounted.

The components, piping and fittings are therefore not visible externally.

This pneumatic equipment includes an air preparation set with lock out valve, filter and lubricator; pressure regulators and pressure gauges; 4/3 rotary lever valves; 5/2 ISO2 solenoid spring spool valves; and adjustable pressure switches.

The panel controls a number of the drum forming and welding machine's pneumatic cylinders: the lower weld head cylinder, upper and lower knurl pressure cylinders, and hour glass roll cylinders are controlled by three 4/3 rotary lever valves; and the lower ratchet and upper ratchet cylinders by two 5/2 ISO2 solenoid spring spool valves.

Six pressure regulators are used to reduce the pressure on either the front or rear of the cylinder depending on its application, with the opposing end of the cylinder being supplied by unregulated mains air.

Three pressure switches are used to monitor the air pressure at points on the machine - the mains air inlet, the rear of the lower weld head cylinder, and the rear of the knurl pressure cylinders.

All air connections apart from the mains supply are made in the side wall of the mounting plate

Pneumatic valves developed for more demanding use

Rexroth Mecman has developed a unique series of valves specifically for applications with adverse operating conditions or where air quality cannot be guaranteed

Available in two sizes, the 740/840 valve series has a unique internal design based on well-proven diaphragm poppet valve technology. The valves are also available in a corrosion-proof version. Being insensitive to air pollution, the 740/840 series is suitable for a wide range of applications including food packaging machinery, pharmaceutical production, mobile applications and areas exposed to the elements or high dust levels.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 8 December 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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Slides combine in pressure testing machine
Pneumatically operated linear slides simplify the design and construction of a new pressure testing machine produced by hydraulic testing expert Curtis Assemble and Test

The valves are resistant against chemical contamination and ideal for use in control systems.

The range is also available with CSA, UL and explosion-proof variants.

The 'plug-in' technology of the 740/840 series results in quick and easy 'no-tool' assembly for manifolds.

Valves can also be delivered pre-assembled to further reduce installation time and costs.

The valves have no wearing parts and offer the option of an integral cable channel which means only minimal wiring is required, thereby ensuring faster, easier maintenance.

Further features include a fast response time, integral flow controls and integrated fittings.

Options include a choice of sizes, pressure and electrical versions, increased voltage tolerance and easy Fieldbus connection.

Control valves offer high flow in compact unit

Parker Pneumatic has introduced a new range of high performance directional control valves - the Viking range - designed for hand, foot, pneumatic or electrical operation

Parker Pneumatic has introduced a new range of high performance directional control valves - the Viking range - designed for hand, foot, pneumatic or electrical operation and featuring compact installation dimensions, high flow capacity, short change-over times and low change-over pressure. The new Viking range comprises two models - the P2L-A, G1/8 valve and the P2L-B, G1/4 valve - both available in 5/2 and 5/3 configurations.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 12 December 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories

Sensor monitors sophisticated weaponry
MBDA is using Parker's CM20 white light portable particle counter for monitoring the condition of the various hydraulic fluids used in Rapier FSC

Hydraulic solution supplied for milking machines
Parker products are enabling milking machines to offer increased productivity through precise hydraulic control, as well as simplifying maintenance

Maximum operating pressure is 10 bar.

Major features of the Viking range include compact dimensions, direct body porting and integral mounting holes which, together, provide the flexibility for single or compact block installation.

Viking valves are made entirely of anodised aluminium for good corrosion resistance.

The smooth design, with no dirt-collecting pockets, makes the valve suitable for most environments, including applications with stringent hygiene requirements.

Valves have stainless steel fixing screws for the end covers to withstand aggressive requirements.
Further reading

Directional control valves suit mobile equipment
The P70 pressure-compensating spool range offers exceptional levels of efficiency and accuracy by minimising pressure drop and heat generation across the valve

Pneumatic products improve vehicle washing
Parker pneumatic cylinders in Smith Bros and Webb brush arms reduce bounce as the brushes come into contact with the vehicle and ensure effective cleaning

Hydraulic pump suits mobile applictations
Parker Hannifin's VP1-95 hydraulic pump is suitable for most load sensing valve systems and offers multi-functionality for any hydraulic application where power and precise control are required

Standard and low temperature variants, hand lever with built-in catch for reliable position retention, variants designed for a special NO (normally open) mobile solenoid valve, and several varieties of special NC solenoid valves, make the Viking range an excellent choice in mobile applications.

A number of different solenoid valve variations are available.

Just 15 mm wide and with DIN 4365 form C cable head, these solenoid valves feature small installation dimensions, low energy consumption, high flow capacity and long service life.

They are available with or without manual change over, with long or short arm, spring return or stay-put.

Viking valves comply with the requirements for component reliability in accordance with the EU Machinery Directive standards EN292-2 and N983.

The P2L-A valve has few moving parts and, combined with short slide movement, gives a valve with high reliability and long service life.

It is designed for use with or without supplementary lubrication.

The P2L-B valve features high molecular weight plastics with self-lubricating properties which makes it suitable for use with or without supplementary lubrication.

Air from the pilot valves is exhausted through a silencer located in the end cover to give the lowest possible noise level ã particularly important for industries where low noise levels are required.

With silencers, the Viking valves comply with the EU Machinery Directive, Noise 1.5.8.

Manifold bars with common ducts for ports 1, 3 and 5 are available with space for up to 14 valves.

These facilitate time saving installation and easy servicing from the front.

Pressure bars for common primary air supply are available with space for up to 10 valves.

When pressure bars are used, restrictor-silencers can be installed in the exhaust ports of each valve for individual adjustment of cylinder/air motor speed.

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

Pneumatic market continues to show potential

Sales in the European market for pneumatic equipment continue to show potential for growth, expected to rise from $3.49 billion in 2000 to $4.56 billion in 2006

In the short term, the strength of the European economy is expected to fuel demand. However, according to a new study by Frost and Sullivan, the international marketing consulting company, mounting price pressures and the likely moderation of European economic growth in the medium term mean that suppliers of pneumatic equipment must focus their competitive strategies to maintain margins.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 18 January 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories

Report shows new trends in plastics processing
Although price still remains a critical purchase determinant, selecting the right equipment to realise enhanced productivity and efficiency has become the focal point for plastics processors

Advanced technologies aid growth in pump markets
Sluggish growth has characterised the mature European markets for centrifugal and turbine pumps in recent years

Technical innovation and interaction with customers to produce complex pneumatic systems are rising in importance.

At the same time, falling prices are generating a need for volume production in order to gain economies of scale, which is driving consolidation between leading firms.

Frost and Sullivan's study highlights the necessity for suppliers to choose where to position themselves on the price vs quality continuum.

Mik Sabiers, Research Manager at Frost and Sullivan comments: 'The automation of production processes is sustaining strong demand for pneumatic equipment, and as secondary producers automate production, pneumatic systems are increasingly penetrating new application areas.

Equally, users of the large installed base of pneumatic equipment are being encouraged to invest in new products by the constant upgrading of pneumatic technology.' The combination of electronics with pneumatics and the creation of intelligent products, which are both faster and permit precise electronic control, is spurring replacement demand and contributing to the market's appeal to new users.
Further reading

Sustained growth for industrial weighing machinery
A new analysis of the European industrial weighing machinery market highlights untapped end-user sectors and emerging opportunities in Eastern Europe

Study details new petroleum refining technologies
Soaring energy requirements are motivating new investments in refining technologies

Vacon is company of the year
Finnish company Vacon has been named recipient of Frost and Sullivan's 2004 Industry/ICE (Instrumentation and Controls and Engineering) Company of the Year Award

Nevertheless, while it is strong, growth is not outstanding.

The market is sensitive to variations in gross domestic product (GDP) and is being impacted by the ability of new products to last for an increased number of product cycles.

Most importantly, growth has been eroded by falling prices.
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Suppliers to the European market for pneumatic equipment compete in an intensely competitive environment.

Pneumatic equipment is combined for use in pneumatic systems.

Individual product areas are therefore strongly interrelated, and growth across the market tends to be fairly uniform.

The varying intensity of price competition is largely responsible for differing rates of revenue growth in individual product markets.

Growth in this market for valves, accounting for the largest share of sales across all product markets, is expected to be driven by favourable economic conditions, by the continuing popularity of solenoid valves, and by the rising availability and use of intelligent valves.

Meanwhile, similarities can be drawn between the market for filter regulator lubricators (FRLs) and the market for cylinders.

In both product areas, revenue growth is being impacted by falling prices.

While demand for FRLs is being driven by growing demand for pneumatic systems, it is being constrained by price reductions caused by competition and the sale of products in a modular format.

In terms of national markets, Germany remains the largest market, followed by the UK and Italy.

A strong industrial focus including a large materials handling and assembly sector and a large processing sector contributed to Germany's importance.

The revenue significance of both the UK and Italy will experience an upswing and under the influence of stronger economic activity, the significance of France, Iberia and Benelux is expected to increase.

More than 100 competitors are active in the European market for pneumatic equipment.

A substantial number are smaller firms operating in their domestic markets on a regional basis.

An upper tier of the market contains five larger and internationally focused participants: Festo, Bosch-Rexroth, IMI Norgren, SMC and Parker.

Additional firms operate on an inter-European basis, but have yet to attain the market share of those in the first tier.

Competition between firms in all areas of the market is intense.

The standardisation of many products means that price is the principle method of distinguishing between products.

Delivery, the author observies, is also crucial.

As demand for control systems rises, it has the power to alter the competitive landscape.

Competition may become less price focused as customers place greater emphasis on expertise, Frost and Sullivan's study concludes.

Pneumatic market continues to show potential

Sales in the European market for pneumatic equipment continue to show potential for growth, expected to rise from $3.49 billion in 2000 to $4.56 billion in 2006

In the short term, the strength of the European economy is expected to fuel demand. However, according to a new study by Frost and Sullivan, the international marketing consulting company, mounting price pressures and the likely moderation of European economic growth in the medium term mean that suppliers of pneumatic equipment must focus their competitive strategies to maintain margins.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 18 January 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
Related stories

Report shows new trends in plastics processing
Although price still remains a critical purchase determinant, selecting the right equipment to realise enhanced productivity and efficiency has become the focal point for plastics processors

Advanced technologies aid growth in pump markets
Sluggish growth has characterised the mature European markets for centrifugal and turbine pumps in recent years

Technical innovation and interaction with customers to produce complex pneumatic systems are rising in importance.

At the same time, falling prices are generating a need for volume production in order to gain economies of scale, which is driving consolidation between leading firms.

Frost and Sullivan's study highlights the necessity for suppliers to choose where to position themselves on the price vs quality continuum.

Mik Sabiers, Research Manager at Frost and Sullivan comments: 'The automation of production processes is sustaining strong demand for pneumatic equipment, and as secondary producers automate production, pneumatic systems are increasingly penetrating new application areas.

Equally, users of the large installed base of pneumatic equipment are being encouraged to invest in new products by the constant upgrading of pneumatic technology.' The combination of electronics with pneumatics and the creation of intelligent products, which are both faster and permit precise electronic control, is spurring replacement demand and contributing to the market's appeal to new users.
Further reading

Sustained growth for industrial weighing machinery
A new analysis of the European industrial weighing machinery market highlights untapped end-user sectors and emerging opportunities in Eastern Europe

Study details new petroleum refining technologies
Soaring energy requirements are motivating new investments in refining technologies

Vacon is company of the year
Finnish company Vacon has been named recipient of Frost and Sullivan's 2004 Industry/ICE (Instrumentation and Controls and Engineering) Company of the Year Award

Nevertheless, while it is strong, growth is not outstanding.

The market is sensitive to variations in gross domestic product (GDP) and is being impacted by the ability of new products to last for an increased number of product cycles.

Most importantly, growth has been eroded by falling prices.
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Suppliers to the European market for pneumatic equipment compete in an intensely competitive environment.

Pneumatic equipment is combined for use in pneumatic systems.

Individual product areas are therefore strongly interrelated, and growth across the market tends to be fairly uniform.

The varying intensity of price competition is largely responsible for differing rates of revenue growth in individual product markets.

Growth in this market for valves, accounting for the largest share of sales across all product markets, is expected to be driven by favourable economic conditions, by the continuing popularity of solenoid valves, and by the rising availability and use of intelligent valves.

Meanwhile, similarities can be drawn between the market for filter regulator lubricators (FRLs) and the market for cylinders.

In both product areas, revenue growth is being impacted by falling prices.

While demand for FRLs is being driven by growing demand for pneumatic systems, it is being constrained by price reductions caused by competition and the sale of products in a modular format.

In terms of national markets, Germany remains the largest market, followed by the UK and Italy.

A strong industrial focus including a large materials handling and assembly sector and a large processing sector contributed to Germany's importance.

The revenue significance of both the UK and Italy will experience an upswing and under the influence of stronger economic activity, the significance of France, Iberia and Benelux is expected to increase.

More than 100 competitors are active in the European market for pneumatic equipment.

A substantial number are smaller firms operating in their domestic markets on a regional basis.

An upper tier of the market contains five larger and internationally focused participants: Festo, Bosch-Rexroth, IMI Norgren, SMC and Parker.

Additional firms operate on an inter-European basis, but have yet to attain the market share of those in the first tier.

Competition between firms in all areas of the market is intense.

The standardisation of many products means that price is the principle method of distinguishing between products.

Delivery, the author observies, is also crucial.

As demand for control systems rises, it has the power to alter the competitive landscape.

Competition may become less price focused as customers place greater emphasis on expertise, Frost and Sullivan's study concludes.

Solenoid valves just right for small spaces

Measuring just 10mm wide, the Picosol direct operated miniature solenoid valves are particularly suited to applications where space is at a premium

Standard units are configured in 2/2 and 3/2 formats and can offered as normally closed, normally open and latching versions. Each type can be individually or manifold mounted with port connections of M3 and M5 respectively. For the non-latching valves, power consumption ranges from 0.6 to 1.0 Watt with operating pressures up to 10 bar.

Orifice diameters are offered up to 2mm diameter - delivering an impressive flow factor (Kv 0.25) for their size.

Converting Equipment pneumatics now sole-sourced

Ashe Converting Equipment has recently switched to SMC as a preferred sole-supplier catalogue, with products including SY manifold valves, CG, MYIC, C85 cylinders and FRL and ITV regulator units

The market leader in the design and manufacturing of high-precision, very high-speed industrial slitting and rewinding systems, Ashe Converting Equipment, has found new ways to unravel the complexity of control of its machines, together with SMC Pneumatics. Ashe's systems are bespoke examples of advanced engineering, that are capable of handling a wide range of products, from as light and delicate as six micron metallised polyester to heavyweight label stock.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 2 February 2001 at 8.00am (UK)
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For instance, a typical application could be the rewinding of one-metre wide printed chocolate bar wrapping, that needs to be slit to the correct size.

Many markets worldwide include the photographic industry for light sensitive and graphic arts products, flexible packaging products, aluminium foils, printed products, security holograms and many other roll supplied products.

In those demanding environments, the reels could be outputting material at a rate of 25 metres per second (56 miles per hour).

And precision of the exercise, as it comes off the reels onto manageable spools, together with the delicacy of some of the materials handled, places very special demands on control systems.

The point is further emphasised by a typical paper mill application, where the Ashe machine would slit paper that is many metres wide as it comes off a reel, onto manageable spools at a speed of 82 feet per second.
Further reading

Solenoid valves work well under pressure
Valves answer requests from process industry and PET machine builders for both two- and three-port pilot-operated solenoid valves with high pressure performance

Simple cylinder for machine builders
Simple electric cylinder available in two body types can operate like a pneumatic cylinder

Positioning driver for AC servo motors
Positioning driver for use with AC servo motors is for point to point applications and can set parameters such as velocity, acceleration, deceleration and torque

Of crucial importance to Ashe's customers is that the finished reels must have what is called a 'record edge' on a drum; in other words, a finished edge to the reel that is as smooth as an old vinyl record.

Ashe's systems have several novel characteristics precisely designed to realise a range of exacting features, which the company's distinctly-specialist market sectors find advantageous.

These include Ashe's own particular drive system where tension control for the material being rewound is absolutely crucial - Ashe has developed systems to achieve its goals.
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And of crucial importance in Ashe's demanding markets, is the company's ability to provide a complete in-house service, from machining and electronic control to construction, to achieve competitive prices supported by a worldwide after-sales service.

This is where Ashe's focus on ensuring all its systems utilise state-of-the-art components to maintain the effectiveness and reliability of its machine functions, together with the capability to receive guaranteed compatible global back-up to match its own end-user commitment.

Ashe has been an SMC user for many years but has recently switched to SMC as a preferred sole-supplier catalogue, with products including SY din rail mounted manifold valves, CG, MYIC, C85 cylinders and FRL and ITV regulator units.

It is the successful application of SMC's ITV units that persuaded Ashe to source from SMC in total.

It is the ITV electro-pneumatic regulators that convert electrical signals to pneumatic signals.

They perform a vital function in the extremely delicate balancing act that takes place on an extraordinary scale between the parent roll (which receives the cut-down product) and the rewind reel.

The ITV's detect an electrical signal that conveys the known value of the reel tension to give a pneumatic signal of, for example ?

10 bar or 4-10mA, which equates to a minimum air pressure of 0.7 psi Importantly, it is the continuous efforts of SMC's field sales engineers and the technical specialists at the company's Milton Keynes headquarters that have established an unparalleled and intimate appreciation of Ashe's methods and ideas.

Ashe's Chief Engineer Keith Fordham explains, 'SMC's contribution has been very helpful to us.

They supply all the cylinders and help us solve the issues that arise in establishing the best pneumatic equipment for all the machines,' he said.

'To help explain how much their input is relied upon, you have to realise that all our machines are different and are required for different situations, particularly when it comes to holding materials at speed reliably.

We have been using SMC for years and their contribution has helped with our success.' Keith Fuller is one of Ashe's design engineers and together with SMC he is at the focal point of system development.

'We're very busy and these large bespoke projects can take seven months from start to finish.

But from our standard ranges, such as our label inspection and label slitting machines and inspection machines, you can be looking at a quick turn-around of only about four weeks.

Yet even then, it is only rarely that we don't have to customise a machine in some aspect or other.' Geoff Parkin, Ashe's Factory Manager described the markets in which Ashe operates as tough commercial climates.

However, through SMC having a focused approach to Ashe's engineering ideals, by maintaining a detailed knowledge of the customer's markets and the dedication of its people in understanding the product range, SMC makes a significant contribution to Ashe's success.

'Before we sourced all our pneumatics, we would have problems with other products and could spend months testing.

Of crucial importance to our machines' performance is the production of very low pressures that control the unwinding process on many applications as we sometimes need virtually no tension,' he emphasised.

However, Ashe can vote with confidence for SMC because the company and its products save them on cost, on time of assembly and on Ashe's inventory, added Keith Fordham

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

More precision from air pressure switches

The West Group introduce the latest range of Air Logic pressure switches. Switch operation is based on the actuation of a snap-acting switch acting against a diaphragm

The West Group introduce the latest range of Air Logic pressure switches. Switch operation is based on the actuation of a snap-acting switch acting against a diaphragm. The extremely short stroke and small volume permit fast response ideal for precise pressure and vacuum sensing. Switches are UL approved Honeywell single pole, double throw micro switches for normally open, normally closed and common terminals that are available from 0.1 to 25 AMP.

For low current applications, gold contact and solid state switches are available.

Adjustment ranges vary from 5 inches of water pressure to 100 PSI, and from 0.7 to 29 inches Hg vacuum.

Switches include Low Differential and Pilot Operated versions.

Four mounting styles are offered.

West Group introduces Twintec 'Pinch Valve'

The pinch valve is an air-operated, normally open, 2-way valve and uses a 20mm piston to provide complete on/off control of media flowing through soft tubing

Twintec's latest product is an inexpensive and reliable pinch valve that solves the problems of remote flow control, contamination, corrosion and explosion. The pinch valve is an air-operated, normally open, 2-way valve and uses a 20mm piston to provide complete on/off control of media flowing through soft tubing.

Pinch force is 40% of air pressure.

Non-contact design means no contamination between valve and fluid.

The unique screw together design offers ease of installation and repair with no tools required and no need to disturb existing plumbing.

Pinch valves are available in Acetal, Polyproylene, Teflon or Stainless Steel allowing for use in almost any application.

They are designed for soft tubing of up to 1/8' (3.175mm) diameter and feature an M5 pilot port which is also available with the option of a built-in 4mm push-in fitting.

Camozzi receives quality award

Camozzi Pneumatics Limited of Nuneaton continues to build a strong reputation for quality and service with the achievement of a prestigious suppliers' award from Yamazaki

Camozzi Pneumatics Limited of Nuneaton continues to build a strong reputation for quality and service with the achievement of a prestigious suppliers' award from a major OEM in 1999. The company's Managing Director, Jeremy Clear, formally accepted the award from Dr Barz, European General Director of Yamazaki, at a presentation at Mazak's premises in Worcester, for the supply of pneumatic components and fully assembled kits on a JIT basis, with recognition for its support and service.

The company has become a respected name in the pneumatics industry and continues to develop its market share in the UK by expanding its range of high-quality products and by focussing on individual customer requirements.

Monday, September 3, 2007

Increased flow rates in compact solenoid valves

Engineeringtalk email newsletter now! News about Pneumatic Valves and Controls and more every issue. Click here for details.
The West Group introduce the new Vesta Compact range of 1/8' air-piloted and solenoid valves which offer increased flow rates, higher working frequencies and longer life in spite of reduced dimensions

A light, elastomer-coated alloy spool riding on acetal bearings, gives reduced inertia and friction. In practical terms, the valve offers a flow of 700 litres/minute and an operating frequency of 30 cycles per second. Vesta Compact valves are suitable for both pipe thread and manifold mounting and can operate in ambient temperatures from -10*C to +80*C.

All solenoid valves feature manual over-ride and are rated to IP65.

The compact valves have compact prices to match and are stocked in both 5/2 and 5/3 versions.

Clippard goes metric with pneumatic valves

Miniature pneumatic valves and fittings previously available only with American thread forms are now offered with 1/8 BSP or M5 ports

Shortly after celebrating their 50th Anniversary as a leading world manufacturer of Miniature Pneumatic equipment, Clippard Instrument Laboratory, of Cincinatti, have introduced a Metric range of miniature pneumatic valves and fittings. Equipment previously available only with American thread forms is now offered with 1/8 BSP or M5 ports.

Clippard's all new, 90 page, Minimetric catalogue features detailed metric specifications and drawings on a wide range of manual, mechanical, air-piloted and solenoid valves with flow rates from 14 to 950 litres/minute.

Products include 2, 3 and 5-way control valves; low power solenoid valves and modular valves.

A wide variety of miniature special purpose valves are included together with a full range of tube and fittings.

Solenoid valves meet any application

Series E solenoid valves combines compact dimensions with outstanding flow rates to produce exceptional performance and versatility

Camozzi's range of Series E solenoid valves combines compact dimensions with outstanding flow rates to produce exceptional performance and versatility in meeting the needs of today's design market. The Series E is available in sizes of 10.5, 16, 19 and 27.5 mm and offers maximum flow rates of 280, 610, 1,000 and 2,500 litres per minute respectively.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 17 February 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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Expanded range of pneumatic push-in fittings
Camozzi Pneumatics has introduced eleven new models of pneumatic push-in fittings to expand its technopolymer Super Rapid Compact Series

Profibus DP interface for solenoid valve banks
Camozzi has recently introduced into its extensive product range the Series CP Fieldbus Interface for solenoid valve banks, which conforms to the international Profibus standard EN50170

A large number of assembly combinations allow a flexible or customised solution for every application.

Valves are available with interchangeable connection plates, fitted with push-in cartridges or threaded ports.

The solenoid and pilot operated valves, which are 5-port, 2-position as standard, are available in both bistable and monostable functions.

It is also possible to supply 5-port, 3-position valves with centre-closed, centre-open and pressure-applied spool options.

The compact design and construction of the Series E makes the range particularly suitable for manifold assembly.

Manifold blocks of 2 to 12 positions are available as standard, both for body threaded and base mounted valves.

These manifold blocks can also be produced for larger numbers of valves, on request.

The manifold's design allows fixing to 'top hat' DIN rail type EN50022.

Depending on the application, the manifold blocks can be supplied with threaded connection ports or push-in cartridges.

The latter makes piping particularly quick and simple, providing a compact assembly with limited dimensions.

Each manifold has a mounting feature for the electrical interface.

The exhaust ports are connected to a common channel within the extrusion, allowing air to be piped away and thereby reducing emissions into the control environment.

The Series E valve is also suited to integration into electronic systems due to its compact design and extensive range of accessories.

The valve's electrical interface device, equipped with a multi-pole connector, allows incoming electrical signals to be connected to one point and then distributed to the coils.

This modular system enables the supply group to be customised to suit the application, creating integrated mono and bistable valve assemblies.

Sunday, September 2, 2007

Compact valves ideal for miniaturisation

The Pneumadyne Compact Series includes Micro, Mini, Maxi, and Cartridge 2/2 and 3/2 valves with a wide variety of actuation styles

The West Group now offers the Compact Series valves from Pneumadyne. This product range includes Micro, Mini, Maxi, and Cartridge 2/2 and 3/2 valves with a wide variety of actuation styles including toggle, push button, ball, and air pilot. Flow rates vary from 60 to 760 l/min at 8.5 Bar line pressure.

Popular in many industries requiring miniaturisation, these valves are manufactured in electroless nickel-plated brass, black anodized aluminium, or stainless steel.

Seals are available in Nitrile, EPDM or Viton.

For colour coding purposes, nylon toggles and push-buttons are offered in 7 colours.

This new series includes a variety of accessory valves including check valves, quick disconnects, a quick exhaust and an air operated electric switch.

Safety on-off ball valve for pneumatic systems

Camozzi has introduced into its product portfolio a lockable safety ball valve for use as an on-off valve for pneumatic systems

In the off position, downstream air is exhausted through a vent hole in the valve body, eliminating the danger of pressurised air remaining in the system after shut-off. The locking feature allows maintenance or setting activities be carried out safely on the system and prevents the air supply being reactivated inadvertently.

The valve body is constructed of nickel-plated brass and the range will be available in port sizes of ¼', 3/8', ½' and 1'.

New options in pneumatic speed control from SMC

Five new additions to SMC's family of AS series Speed Controllers for pneumatic systems have recently been launched

Five new additions to SMC's family of AS series Speed Controllers have recently been launched. The first of these is the AS-FE which, at the touch of an easily recognisable red button, enables residual pressure to be quickly released via its built-in exhaust valve. Available in elbow and universal body styles, with one touch fittings for tube connection and meter-in /meter-out flow control versions - port sizes 1/8' and 1/2' and 4mm to 12mm OD tube connection.

This article was originally published on Engineeringtalk on 14 March 2000 at 8.00am (UK)
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A metal in-line body style version, with threaded ports, is also an option.

Secondly, the AS-FG has stainless steel elements (SUS303) within the body of the controller, which makes this series suitable for copper-free specified applications and water/salt water washdown of food processing machines.

Complete with one touch fittings the AS-FG has a white resin body and release bush, giving a clean smart appearance.
Further reading

Solenoid valves work well under pressure
Valves answer requests from process industry and PET machine builders for both two- and three-port pilot-operated solenoid valves with high pressure performance

Simple cylinder for machine builders
Simple electric cylinder available in two body types can operate like a pneumatic cylinder

The maximum operating pressure is 1.0MPa (10Kgf/cm2) and the unit will accept nylon and polyurethane tube sizes of 4mm to 12mm OD.

Port sizes M5 to 1/2' R(pt) applicable.

For those wanting Speed Controllers for low speed applications the AS-M/FM series gives accurate control of cylinders - with effective orifice for control flow at 1/10th of standard speed controllers.

Easy to control with 10 turns of a knob - 20 turns for smaller (M5) versions.

Available in elbow/universal body style, one touch fittings for tube connection, meter-in/meter-out and optional metal body with threaded ports.

Port sizes M5 to 1/4' and 4mm to 10mm OD tube connection.

For controlling flow from a cylinder, in a single compact controller (which also reduces pipework), the ASD is ideal, with a body which can rotate through 360ø.

This unit is, therefore, ideal for high precision speed control of miniature cylinders, single acting cylinders with low speed in both directions.

In addition, the ASD is available in five body sizes with free flow rates of 75 to 1300 litres/minute.

Finally, the ASP Speed Controller has a built-in pilot check valve - it is, in fact, two individual products combined into one compact unit, for direct mounting onto a pneumatic cylinder.

The unit controls the cylinder speed and stops it in mid-stroke for extended periods of time, when air is shut-off.

It is available in four body sizes with free flow rates of 180 to 1190 litres/minute at 0.5Mpa and 20C.