SMC’s flow and pressure valves in its AS-R and AS-Q series enable energy savings due to a cut in internal air consumption by up to 25 per cent.
Using these valves helps shorten the response time of the return stroke and harmonises stroke movements to prevent a harsh jerky start, according to the company.
In pressing applications, these valves enable a rapid supply of compressed air at the end of the stroke, while the valve bodies and plug-and-socket connections can rotate 360° to ensure fast and easy installation.
The pressure and flow valves range includes six AS-R and five AS-Q models. SMC supplies these in R1/8, R1/4, R3/8 and R1/2 connection sizes, and for hose diameters ranging from 6mm to 12mm.
Customers are able to choose between the new AS-R series with its fixed two-bar supply pressure, and the older ASR valves with fixed or variable set pressures, depending on the application where pressures are adjusted manually using a handle with a three-part scale.
The pressure valve and flow valves are mounted together on cylinders. The AS-Q flow valve is installed on the working stroke side, and the AS-R pressure valve on the return stroke side. Both valve series have similar designs: the pressure valves consist of regulator, with a check valve and a throttle check valve. The flow valves in the AS-Q series contain a quick supply valve, an exhaust valve and a throttle check valve.
