A new range of general purpose, brass bodied, direct acting solenoid valves from Asco Joucomatic is designed to provide fast, efficient and reliable on/off , feeding, piloting and venting functions on water, air neutral, gas and oil at pressures up to a maximum 40 bar.

The new range comprises three series of direct acting G1/4 valves (272, 370 and 374), all with robust, corrosion resistant brass bodies, offering normally closed (NC), normally open (NO) and universal functions (U).

The valves operate with air, water, neutral gases and oil, and can also be used with fluids which require special sealing material such as FPM (fluoroelastomer/viton) or EPDM (ethylene-propylene).

The 272 (2/2) versions are ideally suited for circuit opening and closing in sectors such as the food processing industry, air conditioning, and industrial laundering.

The 370 and 374 series (3/2) valves can be used to pilot process control valves or actuators, or in analytical or proportioning applications.

The reliability in service of the Direct Acting valves is assisted greatly by use of stainless steel parts and by a design which provides large solenoid pilot orifices in the range from 2.2mm to 5mm.

The latter feature, combined with a 16 bar (maximum) operating pressure differential, reduces the risk of the solenoid "blocking": The reliable mechanical operation of the valves is complemented by electrical actuation via moulded IP65 rated epoxy coils.

These are available in two types depending on the application (normal or high temperature, for example).

Both function with all standard European and USA voltages.

Special voltage versions are also available on request.

Extending the scope of operation for 272, 370 and 374 solenoid valves into potentially explosive environments are Asco Joucomatic's unequalled range of EEx explosion proof solenoid operators.

These conform to CENELEC and also national standards.

In addition, most units offer users the option - and convenience - of manual operators.

The Direct Acting valves provide the user with considerable flexibility in configuring systems as a result of their ability to be mounted in any position without affecting their operation.

Convenient installation is aided particularly on the 370 series 3/2 valves by a design that integrates all three valve ports into the actual brass valve body.