Electronic Valve Function Explained
Valve function outlines the number of flow paths a valve has as well as the positions of a valve. The flow paths or ports are referred to as ways in the valve function. The number of positions is how many different positions that valve can be in.
2/2 Valves |
A 2-way 2 position valve is known as a 2/2 valve. A basic example of a 2/2 valve is a ball valve. A basic ball valve has two ports (in and out) along with two positions (open or closed). |
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3/2 Valves |
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4/2 Valves |
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5/2 Valves |
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6/2 Valves |
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3 Position Valves |
Some valves may have 3 positions in their function, which allows all ports to be blocked or open to atmosphere. These can be electronic valves or manual control valves that are spring centered with no power. These valves are not very common and are used for specific applications to either lock in a specific position of a cylinder or to open paths to atmosphere allowing the cylinder to be mechanically or manually positioned. |
For help selecting the best valve for your application, call 877-245-6247 or contact your local distributor.
By Mike Kettering • Technical Sales Specialist • Clippard