Take a quick turn of the National Design Engineering Show floor and it's apparent valve manufacturers are endeavoring to provide smaller packages, value for cost, and higher performance. And Connecticut seems to be leading the way. The following is a short summary of developments that are flourishing in the Nutmeg State.
In the category of solenoid valves, The Lee Company (Westbrook, CT) is introducing its compact 2-way High Flow Piloting Solenoid Valve that is designed for high reliability. Operating pressure is 3,000 psi with flow rates to 6.0 gpm. A unique plunger design and magnetic circuit materials, for an efficient force-stroke relationship, allow small size and low power consumption. Another key is the patented Multi-Seal® that eliminates O-rings and back-up rings—simplifying port layout by allowing two ports to be sealed in the same axial plane.
Also new in solenoids, Farmington Engineering (Madison, CT) is presenting a new line of Refrigeration Solenoid Valves. These units feature solder or threaded ports and a wide range of seal materials. The company says the line came about as a result of customer input for low-cost but quality valves for HVAC systems, and beverage and ice machines.
Versatility is a key feature in Norgren-KIP Fluid Controls' (Farmington, CT) model 8273 2-way stainless-steel diaphragm valve, an addition to its Series 8 line. The valve handles neutral or slightly aggressive gases and fluids. Technical highlight of the valve's design is the Click-On® coil—which, by pulling back on a metal clip, is easily changed to accommodate various coil voltages. Operation is at 1.5 to 232 psi, depending on seal material, with fluid temperatures ranging from 14 to 194F.
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