NORTHAMPTONSHIRE, UK -- Industry Reliance on Pinch Valves
Air operated Pinch Valves used by many industries in a vast number of applications, perform various services, but their influence generally remains unrecognized, especially in the processing of materials. The design, construction and operation of this valve type although simple, provides an ability even in complex operations that is remarkable. Major components in the construction of the valves are the casing, two end flanges and a critical elastomer sleeve.
The Pneumatic operated Pinch Valve has earned a reputation for durability and reliability, with the versatility for processing product flows of liquids, fluids and solid materials in all their forms. The elastomer sleeves being produced specifically for a user application enable this facility and include materials that if processed with other types of valve, would become trapped by seats or in crevices. A further benefit to users is that the elastomer sleeve contains the product flow, isolating it from contact with other parts of the valve and outside influences.
Pressure supplied by the input of air into the casing is the cause of operation by Pneumatic Pinch Valves. The exerted pressure compresses the resilient, internal elastomer sleeve, manufactured in a high-rebound, highly flexible material. The specialized design of the valve casing ensures that the sleeve is able to close freely, but the processing flow of material or liquid is tightly sealed. A normal maximum operating pressure is about 2-6 bars, but dependent on a nominal diameter
Reliability with Economy
Air Pinch Valves function without the need for an added actuator, with the input of compressed air into the body of the valve controlling the opening and closing procedure.
Should there be an interruption of the compressed air supply, the valve casing is vented, drained and the elastomer sleeve is opened due to its elasticity factor. The pressure of the processed product induces the flow through the valve.
In certain operations, the material from which the casing of an Air operated Pinch Valves is constructed may prove to be an influencing factor, but it is by no means as critical as that of the sleeve. Instances occur where processed materials may only be compatible with a natural abrasion resistant rubber sleeve. Other products could require processing at higher temperatures and with a particular elastomer, such as a silicone compound. Processing of product materials in the food and beverage and pharmaceutical industries, may require a specialized "Food Grade" type of elastomer sleeve.
Other potentially demanding applications relate to a power plant, lime and ash. The Pneumatic operated Pinch Valve is able to handle these difficult materials, due to the abrasion resistant and self-cleaning abilities of the elastomer sleeve for pinch valves. Because there are no cavities, seats or cam action to bind the valve operation, the valve has frequent usage in corrosive chemical applications. Accurate and repeatable linear flow control is part of the versatility of this valve variety. Due to this factor, it provides a high performance in the demanding operations relating to wastewater treatment. It also provides users with a bi-directional shut-off facility, which makes it a popular choice for the control of sludge and raw sewage.
An industrial leader with over 26 years of experience, AKO Armaturen & Separations GmbH is a recognized manufacturer of Air operated Pinch Valves. It produces the highest quality products and has production facilities in Germany, France and the United Kingdom.
Customer services and innovation are priorities for AKO, aided by representation in 22 countries. Continuous development of products provides a support basis for long-term business relations between AKO and its customers.
