Protect machines with soft-start valves
February 2021
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Optimising machine productivity can be achieved by operating 24/7, running production lines at maximum throughput or minimising machine downtime by regularly scheduled maintenance and repair.
A machine is subject to additional stress and risks of premature wear when it is powered up and pressurised with compressed air after a scheduled shutdown or a safety event because the surge in air pressure will create rapid movements of the actuators, and that can cause premature wear or may even escalate into a hazardous situation.
One solution is to slow the increase in air pressure into the machine until a pre-set air pressure threshold is achieved, before fully pressurising the machine’s air system. This helps avoid a harsh start and facilitate a soft start of all downstream components. The advantage is that downstream components will move slowly into position, allowing opposing air pressure to accumulate in the actuators in order to create enough air volume to meter out and protect against a runaway cylinder.
SMC’s soft startup valve, the AV series, will gradually increase system air pressure until 50% of the incoming pressure is achieved, then its main valve will open to complete full pressurisation.
Other features include:
• Operating pressure: 0,2-1 MPa.
• Voltage: 12, 24 V DC; 100, 110-120, 200, 220 V AC.
• Flow direction: left to right, right to left.
• Modular assembly with FRL units.
Further reading:
Robust sensors for pneumatic applications
ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
The pressure sensors from ifm have a G1/8 process connection, combined with a welded thin-film measuring cell. While offering an unbeatable price/performance ratio, this technology provides for high measuring accuracy in a very compact and robust housing.
Read more...
Seven years of uninterrupted service
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
A set of hydraulically operated Corflex pinch valves, installed in 2018 at a major North African gold mine, has delivered in one of the continent’s most demanding slurry-handling applications.
Read more...
Controlling pneumatics via IO-Link
ifm - South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Pneumatic airboxes control cylinders or actuators using compressed air, and are found in a wide range of industrial applications.
Read more...
Counterweight balancing in industrial robots
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Hydraulics specialist, WEBER-HYDRAULIK is equipping KUKA robots with a hydraulic cylinder with an integrated pressure accumulator, which absorbs and balances the forces generated on the arm.
Read more...
How manufacturers achieve zero-leakage demands in hydraulic cylinders
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Imagine a world where your hydraulic cylinders never leaked. The answer lies in a holistic approach that focuses on the fundamental components and their interactions, particularly the cylinder rod and its surrounding environment.
Read more...
The role of hydraulic systems in heavy machinery
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
In this article, we explore how hydraulic systems function, their role in powering heavy equipment, and why they are the preferred choice for industries requiring immense power and precision.
Read more...
Reliable, flexible and cost-effective rental compressed air
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
More businesses are turning to Integrated Air Solutions for rented on-demand compressed air, without the burden of capital expenditure.
Read more...
Axiom expands its hydraulic solutions with Powerstart piston accumulators
Axiom Hydraulics
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
Axiom is proud to announce a unique partnership with Powerworks, introducing a new generation of piston accumulators into the South African market, the Powerstart piston accumulators.
Read more...
Dynamic compressor control system with energy savings
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
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 CO
2 emissions.
Read more...
Festo commits to a greener industrial future by driving sustainability and energy efficiency
Festo South Africa
Pneumatics & Hydraulics
As the world is facing significant ecological, social and economic challenges, Festo is taking proactive responsibility. Their goal is to contribute to a more sustainable future through the development of innovative technologies and responsible actions.
Read more...
printer friendly version