SMC Pneumatics recently launched a new version of the VEX3 power valve series, used to control actuators. The new modifications allow for improved cost savings and versatility by offering greater energy efficiency and added handling flexibility, thanks to the addition of new manual override options, which have been added to the existing non-locking push type.
The new 3/3 way VEX3 series features additional benefits to the existing conventional 2/2 way, 3/2 way and 5/3 way power valves. Compared to its predecessor, the VEX3 is not only smaller in size, but with fewer components required per circuit, it delivers on space and cost savings. With a flow rate of up to 3300 l/min, the VEX3, with its three positions, makes it possible to perform intermediate stops of cylinders up to 125 mm bore size or to change the speed of cylinders up to 200 mm bore size. What’s more, two valves can be connected to a double acting cylinder, controlling speeds, slow stopping, acceleration and deceleration with nine different valve position combinations.
Product manager, Brian Abbott says: “While the functions of the VEX3 can be performed by an electric actuator, the new power valve offers our customers greater force and flexibility while being more cost efficient to purchase and operate. It is another great example of the SMC team working closely with its customers to deliver a product that improves productivity and reduces overall production costs.”
How to clean compressed air effectively
Pneumatic systems & components
ISO-Reliability Partners has taken another step in bringing to market highly effective solutions to combat contamination in all its forms. The locally designed and patented Air Wizard inline water trap is proudly manufactured in South Africa. It has been SABS tested for the separation of water, oily fluids, rust and solid particulates from pneumatic compressed air or gas lines.
Read more...Compressed air piping design Artic Driers International
Editor's Choice Pneumatic systems & components
When designing a compressed air pipeline, remember that size matters. The internal size of the pipe, along with the pressure and air volume, determine the velocity of the compressed air in the pipeline.
Read more...Top questions about pressure gauges SA Gauge
Editor's Choice Pneumatic systems & components
Some questions never go out of date, and in our industry, a few have been asked for decades. At SA Gauge, we hear them every week. Here are the ten questions we hear most often, and the practical answers that can save time, money and frustration.
Read more...Controlling pneumatics via IO-Link ifm - South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
Pneumatic airboxes control cylinders or actuators using compressed air, and are found in a wide range of industrial applications.
Read more...The role of analogue gauges in a digital world SA Gauge
Pneumatic systems & components
With so much focus on digital systems, remote monitoring and automation, it’s easy to assume that traditional analogue gauges are outdated. Yet in almost any plant, mine or processing facility, you’ll still find them in daily use. There’s a good reason for this.
Read more...It’s full steam ahead for SKF’s sustainable leak detection solution SKF South Africa
Pneumatic systems & components
One of SKF’s key customers based in Cape Town, which depends on steam systems for its production processes, was facing costly challenges related to high energy consumption and excessive maintenance hours. SKF recommended the TKSU 10 ultrasonic leak detector as a more streamlined, user-friendly alternative.
Read more...Dynamic compressor control system with energy savings
Pneumatic systems & components
CompAir has launched Ecoplant, a dynamic, compressed air management solution that adjusts compressor parameters in real time, offering up to 30 per cent reductions in energy costs and CO2 emissions.
Read more...Is your compressed air system sustainable? Artic Driers International
Pneumatic systems & components
We are all aware that compressed air is an expensive source of motive power, but do we actually know what the cost is?
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.