Differentiating Valves Used in Medical Applications and Industrial Valves
Selecting the right solenoid valve for medical equipment can enhance the quality of patient care by optimizing equipment function. Valves used in medical applications are generally cleaner, have tighter leak specifications and are direct acting which allows for extremely low pressures.
What is a Valve for Medical Use?
A valve used in medical applications is a device that controls the flow of fluids, gases, air and reagents in medical equipment. In healthcare, there is less margin for error and the effectiveness of an application depends upon the quality of the valve. They are designed to withstand harsh media, such as blood and cleaning solutions and handle gases like oxygen. These valves differ from regular valves used in industrial, manufacturing and other general-purpose applications in their design, materials and cleanliness.
Humphrey Valve Features Used in Medical Devices
Humphrey solenoid valves are commonly used for medical applications and include the following features:
- Solenoid coil: The design offers relatively low power for a direct-acting coil function. AC voltages use full wave bridges to provide DC voltage performance that’s smoother and more reliable.
- Armature: The moving part of the valve controls the media flow based on its position at rest or actuation.
- Seals: Seals are designed to provide leak-free operation for millions of cycles. A variety of seal materials are available for different application requirements.
Benefits of Using Humphrey Valves in Medical Applications
Valves used in medical applications are available in standard issues and custom-made varieties that offer unique advantages to healthcare applications. Standard valves are cost-effective and are easily interchangeable for replacements and upgrades.
Other advantages of standardized valves include:
- Availability
- Consistent, reliable performance
- Ability to handle inert and harsh media
- Cycling consistency
Custom solenoid valves are manufactured to meet rigorous performance and integration requirements for specific applications.
These types of valves offer:
- Reliable performance, as they are tailored to a proven standard design
- Biocompatible materials
- Optimized flow rates and response times
- Integration into compact spaces
- Long-term cost savings
Humphrey Valve Applications
Humphrey solenoid valves suit a variety of medical equipment and device functions, including:
- Regulating inhalation and exhalation in respiratory devices
- Controlling the flow of oxygen in mechanical ventilators
- Regulating the flow of anesthesia during surgery
- Managing blood, dialysate and waste fluids during dialysis
- Providing patient comfort and rehabilitation
Valves from Humphrey Products
We’re committed to providing you with innovative valve solutions to suit the unique parameters of your medical application. View our product catalog and contact our expert team for technical service.