Proportional Solenoid Valves for Closed-Loop Pressure Control
Perhaps the most common application for proportional solenoid valves is the precise control of pneumatic pressure. These specialized solenoid valves open partially or fully based on a prescribed flow rate and respond dynamically to minute changes.
When coupled with downstream sensors and analog controllers, proportional solenoid valves create an effective closed-loop system that’s ideal for regulating pneumatic pressure, force, tension and flow in dynamic conditions.
Proportional Valve Solutions for Closed Loop Pressure Control
Based on closed-loop systems requirements, there are several proportional valve configurations to provide pressure control:
- Single proportional supply:Use this valve configuration when downstream pressure is dynamically consumed and precise pressure replenishment is required.
- Single proportional venting:A proportional valve can regulate downstream pressure and provide dynamic relief and precise pressure venting.
- Proportional solenoid and digital solenoid function:Proportional valves are used to supply precise pneumatic pressure. A digital solenoid valve (ON/OFF) is effective for venting downstream pressure.
- Dual proportional control:One proportional valve regulates supply pressure downstream, while a second provides precise venting. This system is the most accurate.
Properly sized proportional solenoid valves have the speed and precision to perform instantaneous changes based on commands sent from the sensor to the microprocessor. Closed-loop systems are readily available as proportional pressure regulators from several manufacturers.
For mass production, it’s not uncommon for equipment makers to embed those closed-loop components into system and PCB controls.
Requirements of Proportional Valves in Pressure Control
To deliver exceptional control, a proportional valve must:
- Provide precise repeatability based on an incoming signal
- Respond instantaneously to milliamp signal changes from a controller
- Suit the necessary size specs for maximum flow capacity
- Limit friction for reliable performance over time
You’ll find proportional solenoid valves in the following applications:
- Food processing and packaging
- Industrial
- Testing and measuring
- Medicine and analytics
- Semiconductor production
Humphrey Proportional Valves
Humphrey’s proportional solenoid valves feature:
- Fast response times
- Low internal friction
- Cycle repeatability
- Low hysteresis and high resolution
- Long operational life
- Quiet operation for medical and laboratory applications
- Custom capabilities to meet stringent control requirements
PV3 Proportional Solenoid Valve
This miniature proportional solenoid valve offers variable flow control of compressed air and inert gas. It’s available in inline and subbase mounts.
Features:
- Flow range: 0-30 SLPM
- Power: 2.4 watt
- Pressure range: 25-100 PSI
PV10 Proportional Solenoid Valve
The PV10 ProControl proportional valve features a high-flow design with excellent repeatability. It can operate as a single, normally-closed solenoid and handle air and inert gas.
Features:
- Flow range: 0-75 SLPM
- Power: 4.8 watt
- Pressure range: 25-100 PSI
PC30 Proportional Solenoid Valve
Humphrey’s small proportional solenoid valve features a rugged yet flexible design that you can customize to your unique requirements.
Features:
- Flow range: 0-225 SLPM
- Power: 8.3 watt
- Pressure range: 25, 50 or 100 PSI
Proportional Solenoid Valves from Humphrey Products
Our advanced ProControl valves series offers unparalleled flow and pressure control to suit a variety of diverse application requirements. Contact our technical team for selection assistance or call 1-800-477-8709