The recent introduction of SMC’s new flow and pressure valves in the AS-R and AS-Q series respectively once again highlights the automation specialist’s commitment to energy savings. Customers can now enjoy a cut in internal air consumption of up to 25% when using the AS-R pressure valve and AS-Q flow valve on their cylinders.
SMC Pneumatics product manager, Brian Abbott explains just some of the benefits of using the AS-R and AS-Q series: “Among the many tangible benefits, using these valves helps to shorten the response time of the return stroke and harmonises stroke movements to prevent a harsh jerky start,” he says. “In pressing applications, these valves enable a rapid supply of compressed air at the end of the stroke, and the valve bodies and plug-and-socket connections can rotate 360° to ensure fast and easy installation.”
Energy savings in the compressed air system
SMC’s range of pressure and flow valves includes six AS-R and five AS-Q models. These are supplied in R1/8, R1/4, R3/8 and R1/2 connection sizes for hose diameters ranging from 6 to 12 mm. Depending on the application, customers are able to choose between the new AS-R series with its fixed 2 bar supply pressure and the older ASR valves with fixed or variable set pressures, where pressures are adjusted manually using a handle with a three-part scale.
The pressure valve and flow valve are mounted together on cylinders. The AS-Q flow valve is installed on the working stroke side and the AS-R pressure valve on the return stroke side. The two valve series have similar designs. The pressure valves consist of a regulator with a check valve and a throttle check valve. The flow valves in the AS-Q series contain a quick supply valve, an exhaust valve and a throttle check valve.
The bigger the cylinder, the greater the savings
AS-R/AS-Q valves are recommended for cylinders with a diameter of 32 mm up to 125 mm bore, and an inlet pressure of at least 3 bar. “What’s truly of value to customers is that savings actually increase with bigger cylinders or higher air consumption levels and larger pressure differences between the working and return strokes,” he continues.
A wide range of uses
SMC’s new energy saving compressed air valves enable machine manufacturers to make their products more energy efficient without making any fundamental design changes. “Manufacturers who incorporate this technology can enjoy a competitive edge which in-turn translates into higher revenues,” concludes Abbot.
More movement on the market
Motion Control & Drives
If you want to move something, you have to be able to control the movement. When positioning in the nanometre range everything matters and requires high performance motion control. Six years ago, Aerotech therefore set itself the goal of revolutionising the market for precision motion and machine control systems.
Read more...Highly customisable robotic hand
Motion Control & Drives
NSK and the German Aerospace Centre are developing a robotic hand system that will help automate manual tasks. The concept centres on a customisable robot hand comprising individually configurable finger modules, an industry first.
Read more...Electrically-operated diaphragm pumping solutions Bearing Man Group t/a BMG
Motion Control & Drives
BMG has extended its range of Ingersoll Rand ARO fluid handling products to include the new EVO series electric diaphragm pumps, designed to enhance energy efficiency and improve fluid handling productivity.
Read more...Grease degradation diagnosis technology
Motion Control & Drives
NSK is developing a world-first: a high-accuracy way of rapidly and accurately diagnosing the remaining life of lubricant grease. The company will provide the solution as a mobile app, enabling users to perform the onsite analysis of lubricant condition in bearings and linear motion systems.
Read more...New compact VFDs with higher power ratings
Motion Control & Drives
Invertek Drives has revealed the extension of its industry-leading Optidrive Coolvert variable frequency drive with the launch of two new compact frame sizes with higher power ratings.
Read more...Revolutionising manufacturing: the impact of machine learning in robotics
Motion Control & Drives
The integration of machine learning (ML) into robotics has the potential to revolutionise many industries, in particular the manufacturing sector. Yaskawa South Africa is at the forefront of embracing this transformative technology to optimise innovation and propel the manufacturing industry forward.
Read more...Chain hoist friction clutch tester WIKA Instruments
Motion Control & Drives
WIKA’s FRKPS chain hoist test set is a reliable and efficient way to test the friction clutch on your chain hoist.
Read more...Why artificial intelligence matters in robotic technology
Motion Control & Drives
Andrew Crackett, managing director of Yaskawa Southern Africa, gives his insight into the role of AI in robotics technology, with its advantages and challenges, and makes predictions for the future.
printer friendly version