A rubber pinch valve is a versatile, practical solution for controlling the flow of media. It is lightweight, simple to install and requires little maintenance. They also provide a leak-proof seal when closed.
Pinch valves can be mechanically operated or pneumatically powered. The simplest design is an open type with an exposed pinch tube, but there are other styles which completely surround the pinch tube.
Typically, a pinch valve is constructed with a cylindrical sleeve that is reinforced with natural or synthetic rubber. Its elasticity allows it to stretch and then be pinched shut by the application of pressure from a fluid or by pressing the valve body in its mid-section.
These valves are ideal for abrasive or corrosive fluids, such as powders and slurries. They do not require a stem packing and have low turbulence, which eliminates potential leak paths. They are ideal for on/off or proportional control of a wide variety of applications including food, cement, chemical and agricultural spraying.
The sleeve of a pinch valve can be made from many materials, including natural rubber, silicone, polyurethane and EPDM. It is often lined with fiber for additional strength and abrasion resistance.
When abrasive media strikes the rubber pinch valve sleeve, it absorbs the impact and deflects its energy back to the media, providing a long-lasting service life. This resilient property enables the sleeve to be used repeatedly without experiencing wear or damage.
Some pinch valves are designed for applications requiring explosion-proof pipe plugs, but it is important to choose the right style for your application. In some cases, a metal body may be used to completely surround the pinch tube for a stronger grip or to make it easier to inspect the pinch tube.
Choosing the best pinch valve for your application depends on several factors, such as the fluid to be controlled, the temperature of the fluid and the application environment. It is also important to select the proper size of the pinch valve.
The most common pinch valves are available in a range of sizes, including 0.5mm. They can be installed into a wide range of tubing sizes and materials, and they will work in both high and low pressure applications.
A rubber pinch valve is the most reliable and efficient way to handle abrasive or corrosive media. Its elastomer sleeve is made of an appropriate synthetic polymer, based on the abrasion and corrosive characteristics of the fluid being processed.
Another advantage of a pinch valve is that it can self-clean. This means that it will not collect contamination particles in the sleeve or valve body. This is because the sleeve and valve body are the only parts that are wetted when the pinch valve is open.
Pinch valves can be used for a wide range of applications, and they are often used in sewage, water treatment, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, cement, oil and gas, and waste disposal systems. They are a cost-effective and practical choice for controlling the flow of fluids, while also preventing clogging and fouling.