One valve does not fit all
In this series of columns, Neil Saunders, industry applications manager for Burkert Fluid Control systems, examines the options available to end users in terms of the growing demands of system processes. Indeed, he argues, even if the all-purpose valve does exist the medical and analytical manufacturers will quickly highlight its inability to cope with the changing requirements of science-based industries.
In this series of columns, Neil Saunders, industry applications manager for Burkert Fluid Control systems, examines the options available to end users in terms of the growing demands of system processes. Indeed, he argues, even if the all-purpose valve does exist the medical and analytical manufacturers will quickly highlight its inability to cope with the changing requirements of science-based industries.
For the medical industry the issues of size and automation have always been a high priority. With the handling of ever smaller quantities of precious fluids, the miniaturisation of components and faster sequencing have become prerequisites for success. Coupled with demand for reliable, low dead volume, continuous operation and increased flexibility, it is essential for integrated solutions providers to develop systems that meet a broad spectrum of requirements. But the idea that one valve, for example, can be all things to all systems, is not the way research and development is moving - thankfully.
As a firm believer in flexibility of choice, it is refreshing to see more suppliers offering a range of options to meet industry needs. It not only confirms that suppliers are positioning themselves as specialists within specific fields, but also suggests that end-users are getting the right answers at the first time of asking.
Given the premise that choice is the way forward, it is worth examining the key areas where intelligent valve solutions can make that all-important difference to manufacturing chemists. For example, the medium and its component requirements, namely hygiene and drug standards through production to end-packaged product, will to a great extent dictate the solution. In this case a variety of valves would need to be considered, not only because of the various operations within a system, but also because diameters, medium, dosing and flow control will also vary.
What does this mean in essence? Well, the solutions provider will need to consider a complete range of components and opt for manifolds, systems and sophisticated software-compatible sensors and controller actuated solutions. The solutions will need to cover a multitude of requirements, but essentially there are six key considerations: medium and functionality; flow rate; pressure; temperature and cleaning requirements; product life-expectancy; valve size and speed of operation.
It's safe to say that in the same way every manufacturing solution shouldn't be shoehorned into a catch-all system, a variety of valves will ensure that all requirements are met.
