Typical applications for process and media valves
By precisely controlling liquids and gases with process valves, industrial systems can operate more efficiently, helping to reduce energy consumption and extend equipment lifespan—an important advantage for manufacturing and processing facilities.
SMC offers a broad and flexible range of process valves designed to support a wide variety of industrial applications.
Media circulation
Industries that depend on continuous media circulation benefit significantly from properly selected process valves, including:
- Accurate chemical dosing: Ideal for analytical instruments and laboratory-based processes requiring consistent regulation.
- Non-contact fluid control: Pinch valves allow media to be regulated without direct contact with internal valve components.
- Optimised compressed air usage: Universal media valves improve efficiency by separating and managing individual system zones.
Liquid mixing
Process valves are frequently used to introduce gas bubbles for fluid mixing, a common requirement in food and beverage production. High-performance mixing is achieved by using valves specifically engineered for controlled flow and consistent operation.
Industrial media cooling
Cooling circuits in industrial environments require reliable valves for water and other cooling media, often controlled via electric actuators.
Typical applications include:
- Cooling system segmentation: Electrically actuated valves isolate individual thermo chillers, allowing maintenance work without interrupting the full production process.
- Cooling of robotic grippers: Media valves regulate coolant flow for grippers used in automotive welding and assembly operations.
- Precision tool cooling: Accurate distribution of cooling lubricants to protect tools and ensure machining accuracy.
Spraying and air-blowing processes
Electrically actuated valves provide precise control for a range of spraying and blowing applications, such as:
- Irrigation systems: Efficient water flow management for controlled irrigation.
- Food processing cleaning: Air-blowing solutions used to remove residues during cleaning cycles.
- Machine tool cooling: Flow control valves direct cooling lubricants through nozzles to the cutting zone.
- Machine tool lubrication: Solenoid valves enable accurate dosing of oil or water for high-precision mist lubrication.
How to choose the right process valve?
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Type of medium
The chemical properties of the medium determine the most suitable valve materials. Below is a general reference to support material selection:
- Oils (hydrocarbons): FKM seals are commonly used for media that are non-reactive with metals. For hydraulic oil systems, NBR is typically recommended.
- Solvents (acetone, acetates, MEK, alcohols, etc.): Due to their aggressive nature, PTFE or FFKM seals are preferred. In some cases, such as ethyl alcohol, EPDM may also be suitable.
- Organic acids (e.g. acetic or citric acid): Stainless steel is generally recommended, while FKM or EPDM can be used for diluted solutions.
- Strong inorganic acids (sulfuric, phosphoric, hydrochloric acid, etc.): These media require fluoropolymer-based technical plastics, as standard metals and common elastomers (NBR, FKM, EPDM) are not resistant.
- Peroxides: Frequently used in hygienic cleaning processes, peroxides are compatible with stainless steel and PTFE. FKM may be used with diluted concentrations.
- Ozone: Widely applied for disinfection, ozone requires stainless steel and PTFE to ensure long-term material stability.
To avoid compatibility issues, it is advisable to consult a fluid control specialist before finalising valve selection.
Fluid viscosity
Viscosity defines how easily a fluid flows and should not be confused with density, which relates to mass per unit volume. The viscosity of the medium—whether water, oil, or another fluid—directly influences valve sizing and actuation choice. This parameter helps determine whether a pneumatic or electrically actuated valve is the best option.
Differential pressure
The maximum allowable differential pressure is a critical specification when selecting a process valve. It is distinct from overall system pressure and must be evaluated to ensure stable and safe valve operation.
Backflow and back pressure
If there is a risk of reverse flow or pressure returning through the system, incorporating a check valve (non-return valve) is recommended to protect equipment and maintain process integrity.
Valve actuation type
Process valves are typically categorised by their actuation principle:
- Direct-acting valves: These valves open without relying on media pressure, as the solenoid directly moves the sealing element.
- Pilot-operated valves: Valve operation depends on the pressure of the medium, meaning a minimum differential pressure is required.
Standard valves vs. diaphragm isolation valves
Seat and piston valves are suitable for many industrial applications. However, for highly corrosive or sensitive media, diaphragm isolation valves offer superior protection and longer service life by separating the actuator from the process fluid.
Use our selection guide to identify the most appropriate process valve for your application.
For additional guidance, our fluid control experts are available to support customers across Lithuania throughout the valve selection process.
