Updated Energy-saving Compact Valve Offers Greater Flexibility & Efficiencies In Energy Consumption

Phil Black - PII Editor 27/07/2016

196 1 minute read

Listen to this article

Reduced power consumption cuts the cost of ownership
Manual override options added for outstanding flexibility
Allows intermediate stops for cylinders up to Ø 125 mm

SMC, the worldwide leading expert in pneumatics, has launched an updated, compact version of its VEX3 valve series that offers customers even greater flexibility and efficiencies in terms of energy consumption.

Power consumption has been almost halved from 1.8 W to 1 W, resulting in significant cost savings. New manual override options have been added to the existing non-locking push type: locking slot, push turn locking and push turn lever types, offering easy handling and outstanding flexibility.

The new 3/3 VEX3 series features additional benefits to the existing conventional 2/2, 3/2 and 5/3 valves. Not only is the VEX3 smaller in size compared to the previous model but, when added to the existing benefit of fewer components required per circuit, it really delivers in terms of space and cost savings.

The VEX3 – with flows of up to 3,300 l/min – has three positions, allowing intermediate stops for cylinders up to Ø 125 mm or to change the speed of cylinders up to 200 mm bore size. It’s also possible to connect two valves to a double acting cylinder, controlling up to nine different positions, including slow stopping, acceleration and deceleration.

Further savings are achieved in vacuum applications when suction or release of the workpiece are not required, as the valve can be set to the intermediate position where there is no air movement and energy is not being wasted.

A spokesperson from SMC said: “The functions of the VEX3 can be performed by an electric actuator, but this new valve offers our customers greater force given by the compressed air and is more cost efficient to purchase and operate. It is a great example of the SMC team working closely with its customers to deliver a product that improves productivity and reduces overall production costs.”