Originally Published MPMN May 2006

SPOTLIGHT

Pumps & Valves

Inert proportional valve

An inert proportional valve is a solenoid-operated diaphragm isolation unit suited for applications involving corrosive or high-purity fluids. The infinitely variable flow control device features a poppet and seat configured to provide bubble-tight leakage characteristics. Rated to 60 psi, the valve is available with numerous porting and electrical connection options. Materials that make up all surfaces in the flow path are inert and impervious to many aggressive fluids.
South Bend Controls Inc., South Bend, IN
www.sbcontrols.com

Check valves

A line of check valves comprises a variety of styles and is manufactured in ISO Class 8–certified cleanrooms. Included in the product line is an in-line back-check valve, which features a preloaded, normally closed silicone diaphragm that allows flow in a single direction. One-way pressure-activated antisiphon valves and bidirectional luer-activated designs, including needle-free devices, are also available.
NP Medical Inc., Clinton, MA
www.npmedical.com

Gear pumps

Suited for applications with constraining factors such as low-noise operation, low power consumption, and a leakproof design, gear pumps operate with virtually no mechanical friction. The QDM line of miniature magnetically driven gear pumps feature removable heads and are engineered without drive seals. Measuring from 2 to 3.75 in. in length, the pumps are offered in 6-, 12-, and 24-V-dc brush and brushless motor versions. The pumps’ performance range consists of flows up to 1800 ml/min and pressures to 30 psi.
B&D Pumps Inc., Huntley, IL
www.bdpumps.com

Valve actuation

Constructed of hard-coated anodized aluminum, brass, and stainless steel, a family of solenoid valves includes both pipe- and Namur-mounted models. The valve series is designed for actuation applications in which solenoid valves must actuate the movement of larger process valves in order to control the flow of liquids or gases. In addition, the valves have a pressure range of 30 to 150 psi and a temperature range from –40° to 75°C. With lubricated air, the valves can achieve a life of up to 2 million cycles, according to the firm.
Parker Fluid Control Div., New Britain, CT
www.parker.com/skinner

Kynar check valves

Equipped with a Hastelloy spring and a Kynar housing, compact check valves are suited for use in corrosive environments. The units are offered in a push-in style for 1/4- or 3/8-in.-OD tubing, as well as in a compression-style fitting for 1/8- to 3/8-in.-OD tubing. Both configurations are used for connecting to ports of 1/8, 1/4, and 3/8 in. The valves’ working pressure
ranges up to 50 psi.
Pneuline Manufacturing and Supply Inc., Greeley, CO
www.pneulinesupply.com

Piston pump

Incorporating an epoxy-coated head and valve plates for exterior corrosion protection, a piston pump is used for air-vending applications. The WOB-L piston pump is fabricated from die-cast aluminum and is configured with stainless-steel valves and permanently lubricated bearings. Additional features include oilless and nonlube piston and cylinders that prevent airflow contamination, thermally protected ac motors in a split-capacitor design, and twin fans that cool the motor and cylinder.
Thomas Products Div., Sheboygan, WI
www.rtpumps.com/she

Miniature diaphragm pump

A company claims that its advances in brushless dc motors and elastomeric diaphragm materials benefit fluidic applications. As components miniaturize, some diaphragms experience fatigue or tears as a result of inadequate internal heat dissipation, according to the firm. However, the company asserts that its miniature diaphragm pump operates safely in temperature environments up to 70°C and can withstand high mechanical stresses. Moreover, the unit has a brushless dc motor that accommodates the reciprocating radial load exerted by the pump.
Hargraves Technology, Mooresville, NC
www.hargravesfluidics.com

Solenoid valves

Boasting Class I, Division 2, approval for hazardous applications, solenoid valves can be used in dangerous locations and for watertight and dust-tight applications. Capable of accepting ac and dc voltages, the RedHat valves’ 2-W power consumption achieves the same performance as a 17-W solenoid valve, according to the company. The valves are available in 100–240-V ac or dc, 24–99-V ac or dc, or 12–24-V dc ranges.
Asco, Florham Park, NJ
www.ascovalve.com

Miniature dispense valve

A miniature dispense valve is suited for situations in which full-size valves may be too large or too heavy. The 702V valve provides uniform, drip-free application of UV-cure adhesives, coatings, and other fluids used in medical device assembly. Furthermore, a seal- and O-ring-free configuration ensures consistent shot volumes. The valve is 60% smaller and 70% lighter than typical dispense valves, according to the company.
EFD Inc., East Providence, RI
www.efd-inc.com

Needle-free valves

Needle-free valves reduce the need for caps, cannulae, and add-on components, while protecting healthcare providers. The SmartSite valves have a high flow rate and low priming volume in addition to a straight-through fluid path. Characterized by a latex- and DEHP-free design, the units also feature high chemical resistance and swabbable surfaces. The company uses 3-D modeling techniques and mold-flow analysis when developing valves and other products.
Cardinal Health, Alaris Products, San Diego, CA
www.cardinal.com

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