Pneumatic Operated Valves
Pneumatic Operated Valves
Pneumatic operated valves are a type of control valve that is actuated using the force of compressed air, instead of the more traditional types of automated control valves like electrical, hydraulic, and mechanical valves. Pneumatic valves are used in a wide variety of industrial applications for their many advantages as well as their accessibility. This article will provide an overview of what pneumatic operated valves are and how they work, their applications and benefits, and the different types available.
What Are Pneumatic Operated Valves?
Pneumatic operated valves are control valves in which the movement of a valve stem is actuated by pressure from compressed air. It has a slight similarity to hydraulic operated valves in that it uses pressure to actuate the valve stem, however in hydraulic operated valves the pressure comes from hydraulic fluid, while in pneumatic operated valves it comes from pressurized air.
Pneumatic operated valves are used as a way of controlling the rate and amount of flow in a process. The movement of the valve stem is then used to either open and close the valve in order to adjust the flow rate and pressure, or alternatively to vary the flow rate by controlling the position of the valve stem.
Applications and Benefits
Pneumatic operated valves are used in a wide variety of applications such as tank filling, oil and gas production, chemical processes and pharmaceutical production. In these applications, the benefits of pneumatic operated valves include their low cost, relatively easy maintenance, low construction complexity, and the fact that they do not require sophisticated electronic components which can be difficult to replace in remote areas or hazardous environments.
The use of pneumatic operated valves also eliminates the need for any kind of external power source and reduces the risk of electrical shorts and fires, allowing for a much safer work environment. This also makes them suitable for explosive or hazardous environment environments.
Types of Pneumatic Operated Valves
There are various types of pneumatic operated valves that use different types of motion in order to move the valve stem. The most common are:
- Piston Actuated Valves: This type of valve uses a piston to create a force to push the valve stem. This is the most common type of pneumatic operated valve and can be used in a wide range of applications.
- Diaphragm Actuated Valves: This type of valve uses a diaphragm to create a pressure that moves the valve stem. This type of valve is often used in applications requiring precise control of the flow rate.
- Solenoid Operated Valves: This type of valve uses an electric current to actuate the valve stem by magnetic forces. This type of valve is often used when the environment does not allow for the use of compressed air.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pneumatic operated valves are a type of valve used to control the rate and amount of flow in a process. They are used in a variety of industrial applications and offer various advantages such as low cost, relatively easy maintenance, and no requirement for a power source. There are various types of pneumatic operated valves, which use different types of motion to move the valve stem, such as piston actuated, diaphragm actuated, and solenoid operated.