Low-profile, high-density manifolds

Nov. 6, 2003
Advances in controls and networks combined with components that pack more punch have opened the door to more-precise, durable, and economical pneumatic systems.

A line of low-profile, high-density manifolds developed by Humphrey Products Co., Kalamazoo, Mich., feature an elliptical-shaped gallery that provides the same internal volume as a traditional round gallery but in a thinner package. The manifolds can be used with direct-acting 19-mm-wide solenoid valves.

The manifolds are available in two-gallery styles to accept the 315 Series three-way valves, and in a three-gallery design with common pressure and individual exhaust ports that accept both the three-way valves and 415 Series, five-port, four-way valves. Both manifolds permit mounting valves for either normally closed or normally open operation. Options include block-off plates, isolator plugs, separate air-supply plates, sandwich-style speed control, and brackets for DIN-rail mounting.

The 315/415 valves are only 19-mm wide, yet have a 0.42 Cv flow rate -- 35% higher than conventional poppet valves of the same size, according to the company. They feature a lip-seal design that uses air pressure within the valve to assist the spring in creating a tight seal that enables higher flow rates.

About the Author

Kenneth Korane

Ken Korane holds a B.S. Mechanical Engineering from The Ohio State University. In addition to serving as an editor at Machine Design until August 2015, his prior work experience includes product engineer at Parker Hannifin Corp. and mechanical design engineer at Euclid Inc. 

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