Whatever the application, Edwards has the right solution to meet your process requirements. Well known for its innovation in pump design, Edwards applies the same energy and commitment to its valves. The result is an extensive range of valves, with a choice of actuation methods, materials and size. Materials of construction have been uncompromisingly selected for performance in high vacuum.

Selection Guide

When you design a vacuum system, your choice of valves will be determined by the need for certain operating parameters. When you choose a valve for your vacuum system, consider all of the parameters listed in the left hand column of the table as described below.

• Actuation. The choice is manual, solenoid or pneumatic, which will be determined by your system design and what facilities are available to the machine.

• Dirty System Tolerance. Vacuum valves have a differing ability to remain leak tight in “dirty” vacuum systems. If your system generates or contains dust or other particulates, choose a valve with a high tolerance.

• Size. Choose a valve which complements the size of your vacuum pipeline. To maintain high pumping speeds and throughputs, do not reduce the size of your pipeline to accommodate a smaller valve.

• Pressure Range. Both the maximum and minimum pressure rating are important, particularly if the vacuum system is occasionally pressurised to above atmospheric pressure.

• Port Configuration. Depending on the location of the valve, you may need either an in-line or a right angle valve.

• Life. The mean time to failure is important for solenoid and pneumatic valves in rapid cycle duties, or where you have extended maintenance intervals.

• Position Indication. You may need local or remote indication of valve, position as part of your control system.

• Closure Speed. Use either a solenoid valve or pneumatic valve if you must have rapid valve closure.

• Corrosion Resistance. Valves are available in stainless steel for those applications that process corrosive gases.