Parker Instrumentation has developed a modular valve system for automated stream switching in gas and liquid analysis applications. The new R-max employs surface-mounting techniques to dramatically reduce the size of control systems for process analysers and gas chromatographs. R-max operates over a vacuum to 500 PSIG/34 bar pressure range, and may be actuated using a low air pressure supply of 40 PSIG/3 bar.
Purpose-designed for automated applications, the pneumatically-operated R-max brings new levels of reliability and integrity to this application, through the use of true three-way double-block-and-bleed valve modules that eliminate any possibility of cross contamination of fluid streams, combined with needle valves offering operating lifetimes in excess of a million cycles. Systems are based on three basic components: valve modules, substrates housing the stream switching channels, and a venting unit. These interconnect using just two screws, allowing the number of streams to be extended without breaking the connections throughout the entire substrate.
The surface mounting approach means that stream switches are much smaller than systems built using standard valves and tubing, by up to as much as 90 percent.
