The Applications of the Pneumatic Valves Called Microvalves
Microvalves are small pneumatic valves that have particularly small components that are used in the field of microfluidics and fluidics to control fluids and gases. They are generally used for regulating or shutting off the flow fluids or gasses. For this to happen, a closure element like a disc, ball, or cone, is moved almost parallel to the flow direction of the fluid. By pressing the entire closure element onto the appropriate opening, the air or liquid flow is either discontinued or reduced.
The outer dimensions of microvalves are usually less than 10mm. Because of their minimal size, these valves are proportionately light and are very well suited for portable or mobile applications. Microvalves can also be integrated exceptionally well into higher-level systems. Aside from the common microvalves like check valves that are passive, there are also active microvalves that are electrically controlled. Electromagnetic drives are usually used for electrically controlled microvalves to make it fast.
How do microvalves work?
Microvalves are generally inexpensive like solenoid valves. Microvalves are divided into:
- Pure switching valves – Also called two-way microvalves, they only open and close a single fluid channel completely.
- Proper proportional valves – Also called micro-proportional valves, they open and close a fluid channel partially and therefore can precisely meter a fluid or gas.
Fast-switching and long-life microvalves are capable of switching below one millisecond. They can be used for quasi-proportional control and replace real proportional valves. The service life requirements for the applications of microvalves are well over 1 billion operations.
Where are microvalves usually found?
Microvalves are generally used in many different areas and are an integral part of any human’s daily life. These miniaturised valves are frequently installed in places where people would never expect them. Some examples include:
- Pilot valves for microvalve pneumatics and microvalve fluidics.
- Inkjet printers with microvalve pressure jets.
- Cold gas propulsion with microvalve cold gas and vacuums.
- Petrol injection and microvalve engine control.
- In-vitro diagnostics for microvalve fluid and microvalve gas.
- Fuel cells with microvalve hydrogen and natural gas.
- For flow control with microvalve flow regulator and control technology.
- Vacuum grippers with microvalve gripper arms and robotics.
- Pressure regulators for microvalve air and water.
Microvalves and Master Mac 2000
Ever since MasterMac2000 was founded more than 31 years ago, it has quickly grown to now be one of Australia’s largest privately-owned valve and cylinder distribution companies. It is distributing top quality brands of pneumatic valves, cylinders, and their components such as Univer, Mack, Tolomatic, Piab, American, and Rotoflux, to name a few. MasterMac2000 is well-stocked at their Brisbane office and warehouse, so there will always be a solution for all your microvalve needs. Call us today at 07 3344 4711 or visit our site at https://mastermac2000.com.au/.
About MasterMac2000: Your Trusted Pneumatic & Process Automation Partner.
LEADING THE INDUSTRY: Established in 1989, MasterMac2000 has grown to become one of Australia's largest privately owned pneumatic and process automation companies. We stock top-quality brands like Univer, Mack, Tolomatic, Mac, Piab, American, and Rotoflux in Brisbane.
SERVING QLD & NORTHERN NSW: We proudly service Queensland and Northern New South Wales for all your pneumatic and process equipment needs. Our mission is to provide the best pre and post-sales support while actively expanding our client base.
SOURCING HARD-TO-FIND PARTS: Not only do we stock quality components, but we also excel at sourcing those elusive, hard-to-find parts. With our extensive database and global network of contacts, getting the parts you require is as easy as a call to our highly skilled, professional sales team.
DEDICATED TO YOUR SUCCESS:
- Decades of expertise in pneumatics & process automation
- Carefully curated selection of world-class brands
- Exceptional sourcing capabilities for speciality parts
- Knowledgeable sales staff dedicated to finding solutions
- Unwavering commitment to customer service excellence
About The Author
Stuart Havill
Stuart Havill is the owner and manager of MasterMac2000, Queensland's largest privately owned pneumatic and process valve company.
With his early working career as a maintenance fitter for Boral in 1992, Stuart has spent his life in the field of pneumatics and process equipment. He gained extensive experience in plant design, maintenance, repairs, fabrication, and site management.
In 1996, he transitioned to a pneumatic sales technician role at MasterMac2000, where he excelled in key account management, providing cost-effective solutions, and managing a sales team of 9 employees.
Since 2002, Stuart has been the manager at MasterMac2000, overseeing the company's growth and establishing it as a leader in pneumatic automation and process valve engineering. His expertise spans customer training, CRM setup, industrial compressor sizing and installation, and turn-key project management.
Under Stuart's leadership, MasterMac2000 has been servicing the industry since 1988, with 5 full-time sales representatives covering northern rivers NSW, Queensland, Northern Territory, and PNG. The company prides itself on providing the best-priced solutions to all customers in the marketplace.
View Stuart’s LinkedIn profile to learn more about his expertise in pneumatics and process equipment.