Air Valve
Air-actuated valves may also be known as air-actuator valves, air-operated valves, or even pneumatic valves. They serve a range of different uses in a variety of industries and can simplify certain systems significantly. Let’s take a more detailed look at their benefits and uses.
What is an Air Actuated Valve?
An air actuated valve, as the name suggests, relies on air to bring the valve into operation. It’s both fairly simple and reasonably complex, as you’ll see in just a moment.
How Does an Air Actuator Valve Work?
In an air actuated or pneumatic valve, the application of compressed air from an external source pushes against a piston or diaphragm in an internal chamber of the valve. In response to the pressure buildup, the valve then opens or closes. The direction in which the air pressure is applied determines whether the valve opens or closes.
What Are the Common Applications of Air Actuated Valves?
Air-actuated valves find use in a wide range of industries and applications, largely due to their ease of use and the fact that a single air compressor can often run multiple air actuator valves. Some of the potential applications include the following:
- Systems for Industry Automation - Thanks to their efficiency and low input requirements, many industry automation systems use these valves.
- HVAC installations - In some HVAC applications, the air-actuated valve may be a useful way to automate processes.
- Machinery (both fixed and movable) - Many different types of machinery incorporate air actuator valves since they’re small and easy to use, and you can run several of them from a single air compressor unit.
- Chemical plants - These valves may be used to automate the introduction of certain chemicals at certain times in the process.
- Automotive air brakes - Many air brake systems use pneumatic or air actuator valves to ensure the proper operation of the brake system.
- Medical Equipment like ventilators and cell-growth systems
- Aviation - Air-actuated valves may play a part in various aircraft actuation systems, including landing gear.
Unleash the Power of Air: Advantages of Air Actuated Valves
Air-actuated valves have many different advantages, making them ideal for a whole range of different applications. Some of the benefits you may encounter when using this type of valve include the following:
- A simple yet efficient design - Since these air-actuated valves have a fairly straightforward design, there are fewer moving parts that may malfunction. This gives them an advantage over certain other types of actuators. Their construction often makes them resistant to harsh environments and wear and tear, ensuring durability and long service life.
- Fast, responsive operation - Compared to certain other valve types, air actuated valves work really quickly and efficiently. This means that they’re ideal for time-sensitive applications where time is of the essence. This is due to the compressed air pressure acting directly on the valve mechanism, eliminating delays associated with electrical signals or complex gear systems.
- Safe and reliable - Since these valves operate solely on compressed air, which isn’t flammable, they’re a lot safer for sensitive environments than some other types of actuators. They’re also more reliable overall since they don’t rely heavily on electronic parts.
- Versatile and Adaptable - Because these valves come in an array of shapes and sizes, they’re a lot more versatile than one might think. Some of them also take up relatively little space, making them ideally adaptable for small spaces.
- Environmentally Friendly - Because they use compressed air rather than more harmful substances, pneumatic valves are a lot friendlier to the environment. You can use as many of them as you like and make a very low environmental impact.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Do I Select the Right Air Actuated Valve for My Application?
When trying to select the appropriate air actuated valve for your application, there are several things you need to consider before making a purchase. Some of these include the following:
- Match Air Flow and Materials - Ensure that the valve matches your system by considering the air flow rate, process temperature, and environment.
- Choose the Right Function - Select a valve that matches your desired function.
- Prioritize Safety - Ensure that you pick a valve that matches the rest of your safety systems.
- Ensure Automation Compatibility - Choose a valve that integrates seamlessly with your existing automation systems.
Do Air Actuator Valves Require Maintenance?
Air Actuator Valves do require maintenance. You should regularly check for signs of wear and tear and clean out any potential blockages. It’s also important to lubricate if instructed to do so by the manufacturer.
Everything You Need at ValveMan
If you’re ready to buy your air actuated valve, you can get it right here at ValveMan. We stock an array of different products, from pneumatic valves to electric actuators. And if you’re not certain which product you need for your application, feel free to contact us. One of our friendly and informative staff will be happy to help you.