Diaphragm Poppet Vacuum Valves
When controlling vacuum pressure in factory automation applications, it’s important to remember the on/off vacuum valve ingests atmospheric air through its third port with each cycle. If the ambient conditions are dirty or dusty, particles can enter the valve and cause malfunctions, particularly with valves that incorporate internal sliding seals.
Humphrey’s diaphragm poppet vacuum valves feature a unique construction that provides consistent and reliable performance in vacuum systems. With no sliding seals, the non-stick, tight-sealing design outperforms competitive models.
How It Works
This simple construction consists of two opposing diaphragm-poppet elastomers that share a common stem within the valve body. The diaphragm-poppets shift and seal into their mating seats, creating a friction-free design.
At rest, the inlet (VAC) port bottom diaphragm seals tightly into its seat when vacuum is present. The greater the vacuum pressure, the tighter the valve will seal.
When actuated, a greater force is applied above the top diaphragm for an instantaneous shift, opening a vacuum path to the outlet (CYL) port and sealing the valve’s third “atmospheric” port (EXH).
Since there are no sliding seals or internal lubricants, the valve is less likely to get clogged with ingested dust and particulate. Instead, contamination passes through the valve without issue.
Benefits of Diaphragm Poppet Vacuum Valves
The diaphragm poppet vacuum valve’s simple construction provides a bubble-tight seal at rest and during actuation. The unbalanced design of the valve prevents sticking, which is often present in more complicated competitive valve alternatives.
They are highly resistant to leakage, providing a better seal as vacuum pressure increases. Lubricants are not used during factory assembly, preserving the integrity of the internal components and preventing contamination. That includes the valve flow path to keep grease and oil from fouling other parts within the system. Fluorocarbon (Viton™) is available to achieve even higher levels of vacuum without leaking.
Additional benefits include:
- Precision flow control
- Limited moving parts
- Low maintenance
- Quick response times
- Self-contained design for easy installation
- Durability to enhance cost savings
Vacuum Valve Models and Features
Humphrey diaphragm poppet vacuum valves are available in air piloted, solenoid-air piloted and manual/mechanical styles with 1/8- to ¾-inch porting, providing a wide array of flow capacities.
Air Piloted:
- Function: Normally closed, spring return
- Number of ports: Two or three
- 30 psi minimum pilot pressure
- Pressure range: 0-29.5” Hg psi
Solenoid – Air Piloted:
- Function: Single pilot, normally closed or normally open
- Number of ports: Two or three
- 30 psi minimum pilot pressure
- Pressure range: 0-29.5″Hg psi
Manual:
- Function: Single pilot, normally closed
- Number of ports: Two or three
- Detented lever, lever, push button and foot operated
- Pressure range: 0-29.5″Hg psi
Mechanical:
- Function: Single pilot, normally closed
- Number of ports: Two or three
- Roller ball or roller cam operated
- Pressure range: 20-29.5″Hg psi
Optimize Your Application with a Valve from Humphrey Products
Take advantage of the experience and expertise provided by the technical team at Humphrey. We specialize in assessing individual applications and identifying the right product to enhance operations. Contact us to learn more about our diaphragm poppet valves or request a quote.