For many dispensing applications, a well-designed general-purpose diaphragm or piston valve that can handle a range of fluid viscosities is a good choice. In most situations, however, best results will be obtained with a valve style and configuration carefully matched to the specific properties of the fluid being dispensed. Here are the things you have to consider with your dispensing valves and pumps to see if they work efficiently or not.
1. Thick Fluids
Thick materials like RTV silicone or heavy grease, for example, pose very different challenges than thinner fluids like adhesives or thread lockers. When using thick fluids, a high-pressure valve with a balanced spool design will provide good control. Also, look for a snuff back feature it will prevent drooling and tailing and help reduce the rework and cleanup often associated with these more challenging assembly materials.
2. Thin to Medium Fluids
Thin fluids like solvents and watery adhesives have many different requirements, especially when very small deposits are needed. For these applications, dispensing pumps and needle valves are often recommended because shutoff occurs close to the valve outlet or dispense tip. This is an important design feature because it minimizes dead volume that can cause dripping or oozing.
3. Dispensing Line
If your dispensing valves are not cycling fast enough, the valve control system may not be compatible with the dispense valve. When faster cycle times and more precise control of deposit size are required, a dedicated valve controller with a fast-acting solenoid and a digital timer can be a simple and cost-effective way to achieve these objectives.
4. Valves Mount
When valves are too large or heavy to be mounted at the dispensing station, extra time must be spent on design and fixturing. If extra lines and fittings must be added to transfer the fluid from the valve (where cutoff takes place) to the point of deposit, it increases the risk of dripping and drooling. Using a compact, a fast-acting valve that is small enough to be mounted at the dispensing station will provide greater flexibility in system design, a neater installation that takes up less space, and a cleaner cutoff.
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