Safety and Pneumatic Control Systems Pneumatic Valve Operation and Selection (pt.2)

Our previous article gave a general overview of safety precautions to consider when installing and using pneumatic control systems. However, before discussing valve selection and operations, we want to mention that the first step to keeping safe is knowledge. Knowing what valves and controls you need and properly using and monitoring the systems and devices is the most important thing for keeping high safety standards.

After an employee hits the emergency stop on a system, pneumatic solenoids automatically de-energize. You want to have directional control valves that revert to an exhausting state upon power loss. For instance, directional control valves are often used to automate a wide array of machine motions and functions, but they will decrease safety conditions when applied incorrectly. In a situation like the one above, air can become trapped, which causes safety hazards. In a worst-case situation, trapped air causes motion while a technician releases the jam. The technician is likely to get pinched or trapped and suffer injury. Consider installing a manual release valve to release trapped air in these situations.

Another common safety issue related to valve operations is the loss of pressure. As a result, it is common to have uncontrolled movement while using a center exhaust valve for power-off (emergency stop) conditions. This condition often damages machines, but the problem can be avoided if the right pneumatic valves are properly installed.

There are many safety considerations to consider for keeping systems running smoothly and avoid any issues with employees' health and morals. However, never make assumptions about what is right or wrong, and in cases of uncertainty, you should reach out for professional help. 

Related Reading

• Basic Principles of Pneumatic Control
• Common Functions of Pneumatic Valves
• Consuming Compressed Air