Manual & Mechanical Actuation Valves: Technical DATA

1. Handle Type Flow Path Switching Valve

Description: A manually operated valve designed to selectively switch the flow path between two or more outputs from a single input. The rotary handle provides positive detent at each switching position for reliable and unambiguous flow direction control.

Technical Specifications:

• Function: 3-port, 4-port, or 5-port selector valves
• Actuation: Manual Rotary Handle
• Port Sizes: Rc(PT) 1/8, 1/4
• Flow Capacity: Cv = 0.8 to 2.5 (depending on size and model)
• Positions: 2-position and 3-position configurations
• Switching Mechanism: Rotary spool with positive detent mechanism
• Handle: Large, ergonomic handle with clear position indicators

Common Types:

• 2-Position Selector Valve: Switches between two different circuits
• 3-Position Selector Valve: Includes center position (often exhaust center)
• Pressure/Exhaust Switching Valve: Specifically for switching between pressure supply and exhaust functions
• Multi-port Distribution Valve: For complex flow path selection systems

2. Lever/Handle Type Shutoff Valve

Description: A simple and robust manual valve used for completely opening or closing an air passage. The lever provides quick 90° operation between fully open and fully closed positions, making it ideal for main air supply control or system isolation.

Technical Specifications:

• Function: 2/2 ON-OFF
• Actuation: Manual Quarter-Turn Lever
• Port Sizes: Rc(PT) 1/8, 1/4, 3/8
• Flow Capacity: Cv = 1.2 to 4.0 (depending on size)
• Operation Angle: 90° rotation between full open and full closed
• Sealing: Bubble-tight seal in closed position
• Indicator: Clear visual position indication (open/closed)

Common Types:

• Ball Valve Type: Quarter-turn ball valve design
• Plug Valve Type: Tapered plug design for positive shutoff
• Panel Mount Type: For installation in control panels
• Lockable Type: With provision for padlock for safety isolation

3. Mechanical Valve

Description: Valves that are actuated by physical contact with machine parts, workpieces, or mechanical arms. These are typically used for position detection, sequencing, or safety interlocks in automated machinery.

Technical Specifications:

• Function: 3/2 Normally Closed or Normally Open
• Actuation: Mechanical plunger, roller lever, or straight lever
• Port Sizes: M5, Rc(PT) 1/8
• Flow Capacity: Cv = 0.15 to 0.4
• Operating Force: 2N to 10N (depending on actuator type)
• Actuator Types: Plunger, roller lever, adjustable roller lever, cross roller lever
• Repeat Accuracy: ±0.1mm

Common Types:

• Plunger Type: For direct vertical actuation
• Roller Lever Type: For actuation from any direction
• Adjustable Roller Lever: With adjustable lever length and angle
• Cross Roller Lever: For operation from any horizontal direction
• Palm Button Type: For manual safety operations

4. Foot Switch

Description: A hands-free operation valve actuated by foot pressure. Essential for applications where the operator needs to keep both hands free for workpiece handling while controlling pneumatic functions.

Technical Specifications:

• Function: 3/2 or 4/2 air pilot operated
• Actuation: Foot pedal with mechanical linkage
• Port Sizes: Rc(PT) 1/8
• Flow Capacity: Cv = 0.8 to 1.5
• Operating Force: 30N to 70N
• Pedal Size: Large, non-slip pedal surface
• Construction: Robust steel or aluminum housing
• Safety Features: Anti-slip base, splash protection

Common Types:

• Single Pedal Foot Switch: Basic foot-operated valve
• Double Pedal Foot Switch: Two pedals for separate functions or safety interlock
• Pendant Foot Switch: Suspended type for easy positioning
• Safety Foot Switch: With protective guard or dual pedal safety requirement