Many give little consideration to two-port valves because they are often perceived as simple devices that only open and close to control downstream fluid supply. Well, although that’s mechanically true, choosing the optimal two-port valve for your application can make a big difference, saving space, weight and, most notably, energy consumption – up to 63% in some cases.

To optimise the selection of a two-port valve, you must first consider the specific application and fluid type. In general purpose industrial applications, contact between the valve’s internal moving parts and the fluid is not particularly critical (when used with stated fluids), however, environmental resistance is very important as valves could be installed in high-humidity environments. In such instances, a valve such as SMC’s JSX series and its stainless steel coil and body will prove ideal. 

Bring benefits to life 

In life science applications, like those in the medical and pharmaceutical device manufacturing sectors, it is necessary to avoid fluid contamination, which is why you should select valves that feature an isolated structure and plastic materials. Two-port valves for life science applications must also offer low particle generation and small internal and dead volume.

Chemical applications, like those involving semiconductor manufacture, also have their own set of criteria that influence the selection of two-port valves. Fluids deployed in these applications can be very aggressive, so chemical compatibility becomes critical.

Valve construction must therefore centre on the use of materials that provide high corrosion resistance, like PTFE or super PFA. The reduction of micro-bubble generation, fluid contamination and leakage are further critical factors for this type of applications. 

Wash away inefficiency 

Let’s examine a case in point: an industrial washing machine. Space for equipment is decreasing around the world in line with population growth. The obvious way to reduce the size of appliances is to use smaller components that offer the same performance as larger counterparts. In two-port valves, this concept translates into more compact designs with high flow rate and pressure differential specifications.

Two SMC 2-port valves, for example – our JSX series and JSXU (energy saving type) series – demonstrate the gains possible from astute selection.

While both valves offer the same flow rate (Kv 0.45) and pressure differential (1 MPa), the JSXU model is about 10% smaller and about 24% lighter. However, the biggest difference relates to power consumption, with the JSXU delivering savings of up to 63% by reducing the wattage required to hold the valve. This capability helps to control bills in an era of high energy prices and provide a contribution to global sustainability.

If OEMs can deliver on customer demands for compact size and energy efficiency, it helps to generate brand loyalty and build a more robust business model for long-term success.

If you’ve been taking your two-port valve selection for granted, maybe it’s time to think again and tap into the benefits available from SMC for more astute product choices.