Any time a machine or component can be programmed or tuned without being disconnected is a great advantage for any design engineer or technician. It saves time and money. That is why ASCO Numatics, Novi, Mich., introduced its SentronicD line — the first proportional pressure-control valves that can be fully tuned to an application without being removed from the production process.
“With its Data Acquisition Software (DaS) and a direct-operating solenoid, the SentronicD valve can shave weeks off development and start-up times and improve throughput and yield,” said Robert W. Kemple, Jr., executive vice president, sales and marketing — Americas, ASCO Numatics. “Now manufacturing and control engineers can incorporate proportional valves that meet their specific application requirements, rather than sub-optimizing their application to accommodate a valve’s capability.”
On-machine valve adjustment
Users can optimize the pressure regulator to the control loop with Numatics’ DaS software and RS232 interface while the valve remains installed in the production machine. A scope function allows the logging and readout of the system‘s transient response in real time. Previously saved valve data can be loaded at any time and used as a reference for maintenance and error detection. In addition, the software enables direct interaction with Numatics’ technical support for factory diagnostics and troubleshooting.
The SentronicD pressure regulator incorporates a direct-acting solenoid for fast response and much high repeatability. The valve is infinitely adjustable and minimizes resolution loss.
“With DaS, the need to remove the valve for factory adjustment is virtually eliminated,” said Kemple. “For the first time, control engineers can fine tune control parameters with a laptop or netbook while the valve is on the production equipment.”
The SentronicD is available with an optional integrated graphic display that quickly presents key data, such as outlet pressure, setpoint, and pressure switch signals. The valve is rated for three pressure ranges: 0–50 psi, 0-100 psi, and 0-150 psi, with maximum pressures of 90 to 190 psi. Flow capacities range from 16.6 to 45.9 scfm. They fit 1/8, 1/4, and 3/8 in. port sizes (NPT or GTap), and are rated for air temperature ranges from 32° to 140°F and ambient temperatures from 32° to 122°F.
“Our SentronicD proportional valve designed for precision pressure control, early identification of application-specific problems, field adjustment, and streamlined development processes,” said Kemple. “For OEMs, it means cutting weeks from production cycles and achieving faster order fulfillment rates.”
The SentronicD valve is part of a comprehensive family of Numatics proportional products that include the FlowtronicD, SentronicPlus, ControlD, and E-Series lines.
For more information, contact Numatics at (888) 686-2842 or visit www.numatics.com.