Typical applications for process and media valves
Process valves for controlling various media make it possible to optimize the energy consumption of your industrial processes and extend the service life of your machines.
At SMC, we offer a variety of process valve types that can be used in various applications:
Media circulation
Process valves deliver significant benefits for industrial processes involving media circulation:
Mixing of liquids
A common application for process valves is mixing liquids using gas bubbles, often used in the food industry. Here, specialised valves with specific characteristics ensure optimal mixing efficiency.
Industrial cooling of media
To control the recirculation of fluids in industrial cooling processes, electrically actuated water valves or valves to controlling other media are used.
Here are some key applications:
- Segmentation of the industrial cooling process with fluid thermos chillers using electrically actuated valves for water or other media to allow maintenance work to be carried out.
- Cooling of grippers using media valves that control the flow of these media. This is particularly used in welding processes in the automotive industry.
- Tool cooling in the machine tool industry using cooling lubricants.
Spraying and blowing applications
Electrically actuated valves offer precise control for various spraying and blowing applications:
- Irrigation: Precise water control for efficient irrigation.
- Food Cleaning: Blowing off food residue for a clean end product.
- Machine Tool Cooling: Specialized valves control the flow of cooling lubricant, ensuring targeted application by spray nozzles at the tool-workpiece interface.
- Machine Tool Lubrication: Solenoid valves precisely meter water or oil for a fine mist lubrication spray.
How to choose the correct media valve
Selecting the right type of process valve for your application is crucial. Here are the key factors to consider:
Type of medium
The type of medium you're working with determines the valve's material composition. Here's a quick guide to choosing the right materials:
- Oils (hydrocarbons): They do not normally attack metals, FKM seals are often used. For hydraulic oil, nitrile rubber (NBR) is the right material.
- Solvents (acetone, acetates, MEK, alcohols, etc.): They are very aggressive towards seals, so it is advisable to use PTFE or FFKM (perfluoroelastomer). Sometimes EPDM can also be used, e.g. for ethyl alcohol.
- Organic acids (acetic acid or citric acid): Stainless steel is ideal here. For diluted solutions, FKM or EPDM are also suitable.
- Strong inorganic acids (sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, hydrochloric acid, etc.): They are not compatible with metals and the usual sealing materials (NBR, FKM, EPDM). Technical plastic (fluoropolymer) is required for the transport of this medium.
- Peroxide: This medium is often used in hygienic cleaning applications. Compatible materials for it are stainless steel and PTFE. For diluted solutions, FKM is also often used.
- Ozone: This medium is often used in disinfection applications. Compatible materials are stainless steel and PTFE.
Unsure about material compatibility? Consult our fluid control experts before finalising your valve selection.
Fluid viscosity
Viscosity is the thickness or resistance to flow of a fluid. It's different from density, which measures mass per unit volume. To ensure proper valve selection, choose between pneumatic or electrically actuated valves based on the viscosity of your fluid (water, oil, etc.).
Differential pressure
When selecting a process valve, it is crucial to consider the maximum differential pressure, which is not the same as the maximum system pressure.
Backflow or back pressure
If there is a possibility of backflow, it should be considered to use a check valve (non-return valve).
Valve design
Control valves can be directly actuated or pilot actuated.
- Directly actuated valves: With these valves, the solenoid valve can be opened without fluid pressure.
- Pilot actuated valves: In this case, the solenoid valve relies on the fluid pressure, so it may require a minimum differential pressure.
Standard valves vs. diaphragm isolation valves
While standard seat or piston valves are suitable for various industrial fluids, it is advisable to switch to diaphragm isolation valves for particularly corrosive fluids.
Choose the right process valves for your application with the help of our selection guide.
Need help with your process valve selection? Contact our fluid control experts.
