Common uses for process and media valves
Process valves designed for controlling fluids and various media enable the optimisation of energy consumption in industrial processes while extending machine service life.
At SMC Danmark, we provide a wide range of process valve types suitable for diverse applications:
Media circulation
Process valves offer substantial advantages for industrial processes involving media circulation:
- Precise chemical control: Perfect for applications such as analytical technology.
- Non-contact fluid handling: Pinch valves ensure fluid management without direct contact.
- Improved compressed air efficiency: Universal media valves enhance performance through effective segmentation.
Liquid mixing
Process valves are commonly used for mixing liquids with gas bubbles, a technique frequently employed in the food industry. Specialised valves with designed features ensure maximum mixing efficiency.
Industrial media cooling
Electrically actuated water valves or media control valves are used to regulate fluid recirculation in industrial cooling processes.
Key applications include:
- Cooling process segmentation: Electrically actuated valves for water or other media enable the segmentation of industrial cooling systems with thermos chillers, facilitating maintenance work.
- Gripper cooling: Media valves regulate fluid flow for cooling grippers, commonly applied in welding processes within the automotive industry.
- Tool cooling: Cooling lubricants are used to maintain tool temperatures in the machine tool industry.
Spraying and blowing applications
Electrically actuated valves provide precise regulation for a wide range of spraying and blowing processes:
- Irrigation: Ensure efficient water management with precise flow control.
- Food cleaning: Remove food residues effectively for a clean final product.
- Machine tool cooling: Specialised valves regulate cooling lubricants, delivering targeted application via spray nozzles at the tool-workpiece interface.
- Machine tool lubrication: Solenoid valves accurately dispense water or oil for fine mist lubrication sprays.
Choosing the right media valve
Selecting the appropriate process valve for your application is essential. Consider these key factors:
Medium types
The selection of valve materials depends on the specific medium being handled. Below is a brief overview of material compatibility for various fluids:
- Oils (hydrocarbons): They generally do not corrode metals. FKM seals are commonly used, while nitrile rubber (NBR) is suitable for hydraulic oils.
- Solvents (acetone, acetates, MEK, alcohols, etc.): They can degrade many seal materials. PTFE or FFKM are recommended for optimal performance. EPDM may be suitable for specific solvents, like ethyl alcohol.
- Organic acids (acetic acid or citric acid): Stainless steel is the preferred material for handling organic acids. Diluted solutions may be compatible with FKM or EPDM seals.
- Strong inorganic acids (sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, etc.): They can corrode metals and degrade common seal materials. Fluoropolymer-based technical plastics are necessary for handling these aggressive fluids.
- Peroxide: Commonly used in hygienic cleaning processes, it is compatible with stainless steel and PTFE. Diluted peroxide solutions may be handled with FKM seals.
- Ozone: Used in disinfection applications, it is compatible with stainless steel and PTFE.
If you have questions about material compatibility, please consult our fluid control experts to ensure the correct valve selection.
Fluid viscosity
Viscosity refers to a fluid's resistance to flow. Unlike density, which measures mass per unit volume, viscosity is a measure of thickness. To select the appropriate valve for your application, consider the fluid's viscosity (e.g., water, oil) and choose between pneumatic or electrically actuated valves.
Differential pressure
When choosing a process valve, it is important to account for the maximum differential pressure. This value differs from the maximum system pressure and is a critical factor in valve selection.
Backflow or back pressure
If there is a risk of reverse flow, incorporating a check valve (also known as a non-return valve) is recommended.
Valve design
Control valves can be actuated in two primary ways: direct actuation and pilot actuation.
- Direct actuation: Direct-actuated valves operate independently of fluid pressure. The solenoid valve can be opened without requiring additional fluid pressure.
- Pilot actuation: Pilot-actuated valves, on the other hand, rely on fluid pressure to operate. They typically necessitate a minimum differential pressure to function correctly.
Standard valves vs. diaphragm isolation valves
Standard seat or piston valves are suitable for many industrial fluids. However, when dealing with highly corrosive substances, diaphragm isolation valves offer superior protection.
To ensure optimal valve selection for your specific application, refer to our comprehensive selection guide. If you require further assistance, contact our fluid control experts to provide expert advice.
