In comparison to solenoid operated pneumatic directional control valves the AFA Controls MEMS valve will provide the following features and benefits.  

• Cycle Life - In excess of 100 million when used with 5 micron filtration and dry air.

• Faster Response Time - Energized and De-energized operation is identical.

  • MEMS device Electrical response - 200 microseconds

  • Pneumatic response - less than 1 millisecond

• No Minimum Air Pressure - Air is not required to actuate the valve.

• Power Requirement - All valve models operate at any voltage between 4-24VDC without any degradation in performance while consuming a fraction of a watt. 

• Elimination of Heat - the MEMS device does not generate heat.

• No Internal Air Leakage - An airtight seal is achieved when closed, making the valve attractive for vacuum applications.

• Standard backup power supply and optional battery backup with "smart" low power signal that can be directed back to your PLC.

  • This feature allows the valve to maintain its "Last Command" position or a preferred default position in the event of power loss or other system problems.

• Size -  The valves do not change in size based upon operating features as is the case with solenoid operated valves. This reduces mounting component inventory and the need to create multiple machine design layouts.

• Clean Service

  • Optional filtration.

  • No internal seals that "wear" and generate particulates.

• No lubrication requirement.

• Other Electrical Benefits

  • No Inductive Kickback

  • Transient and Surge protection is standard

  • Impervious to and does not generate EMI