Pneumatic flow control valve applications

Pneumatic control valves are components that are used to control the rate and pressure of airflow through a pneumatic application. These types of components are essential in a wide range of applications, but how do they work? Also, what types of pneumatic flow control valve applications are there? Continue reading as API UK explains in detail.

 

What is a pneumatic control valve?

Pneumatic valves are used to control the flow of air and other gases within a pneumatic system. They’re categorised in many ways, which include the number of inlet and output ports, the type of actuator (manual, mechanical, electromagnetic, or pneumatic), the valve’s status when deactivated, which is normally open or normally closed, and the number of flow ways or switching positions.

Typical configurations for pneumatic control valves include 2/2, 3/2, 4/2, 5/2 and 5/3.

 

What are the benefits of pneumatic control valves?

Due to the popularity of pneumatic control valves, it’s clear that there are many benefits to using them within a pneumatic system.

They are extremely versatile and are useful for simple tasks like switching a single flow path off and on, and more complex functions like proportional flow control. Pneumatic control valves are also durable, very reliable, and even require much less maintenance than their electromotive counterparts.

They’re also cost-effective, easy to use, and safe which makes them an even more desirable choice for manufacturers.

stainless steel pneumatic cylinder applications

Types of pneumatic flow control applications

Because of their many advantages, pneumatic control valves are used across all kinds of industries and applications. Pneumatic flow control applications include:

  • Automation
  • Medical
  • Chemical
  • Metallurgy.

It is no wonder that so many industries choose to use pneumatic control valves when you consider that compressed air is an easy resource to get hold of. Not only that but it is also easy to use.

 

What are the specific uses for a pneumatic control valve?

In a wide range of flow control applications, pneumatic flow control valves are great for many uses. They include:

  • Ecologically friendly
  • No clogging
  • Water saving
  • Reduce working pressure
  • Performance.

Ecologically friendly

Companies all over the world are under pressure to meet ecological standards so everything they do must be sustainable and climate-friendly. Pneumatic control flow valves can be ecologically friendly by reducing the wastage of natural resources.

No clogging

Flow control valves do not obstruct the flow of fluid within an application. So, small particles of dust and deposits will not clog the flow of the fluid.

Water saving

Flow control valves are an essential part of a more sustainable process. When used in a faucet, 85% of water can be saved, meaning a low demand for water supply.

Reduce working pressure

Pneumatic flow control valves allow operators to depressurise the solution hose instantly. By turning it off and open, the control valve will release any back pressure.

Performance

Finally, a key reason why pneumatic flow control valves are used in many applications is because of their performance and reliability. With long lifespans and minimal maintenance required, it’s easy to see why they’re so popular.

 

Pneumatic flow control valves at API UK

At API UK, we are a leading flow control valve supplier and are able to supply a wide range of industrial and process control valves. Constructed from lightweight aluminium, our industrial valves feature rugged anodised aluminium spools to ensure long service life.

Available in various sizes, API’s flow control valves can be tailored to suit your application requirements.

If you would like to go into more detail with API UK and find out more about pneumatic flow control valve applications, don’t hesitate to contact us at 01782 206 995, email [email protected], or complete our contact form.