Clippard R311 Detailed Technical Overview

The Clippard R311 is a 3/2-way pneumatic valve designed for precise control of airflow in various industrial and automation applications. Below is a detailed overview of its technical specifications, features, and applications:

Technical Specifications

• Type: 3/2-way pneumatic valve.
• Function: Single-acting (Normally Closed or Normally Open configurations available).
• Operating Pressure Range: 0 to 300 PSI (0 to 20.7 bar).
• Flow Coefficient (Cv): 0.05.
• Operating Medium: Filtered and dried compressed air; non-corrosive gases.
• Response Time: Fast switching (specific time depends on system requirements).
• Temperature Range: -18°C to +70°C (0°F to 160°F).
• Materials:
  • Body: Brass or stainless steel.
  • Seals: High-performance elastomers (e.g., Nitrile or Viton).
• Interface Size: 1/8″ NPT threaded connection.
• Weight: Approximately 0.2 lbs (90 grams).

Key Features

1. Durability and Reliability:

   Constructed with high-quality materials (brass or stainless steel), ensuring long-term durability in harsh environments.

2. Versatile Operation:

   Offers both Normally Closed (NC) and Normally Open (NO) configurations, allowing flexibility in system design.

3. Compact Design:

   Lightweight and space-saving, ideal for installations with limited space.

4. Fast Response:

   Designed for quick switching, critical in applications requiring rapid actuation.

5. Wide Temperature Range:

   Capable of operating in environments from -18°C to +70°C, making it suitable for diverse industrial settings.

6. Corrosion-Resistant Materials:

   The use of stainless steel and elastomeric seals ensures resistance to corrosion and chemical exposure.

Applications

The Clippard R311 is well-suited for a range of applications where precise pneumatic control is required, including:

1. Automation and Robotics:

   Used in pneumatic circuits for controlling actuators, grippers, and other robotic components.

2. Medical and Laboratory Equipment:

   Ideal for applications requiring clean, reliable pneumatic control, such as in medical devices or laboratory automation.

3. Packaging Machinery:

   Commonly used in packaging lines for controlling airflow in filling, sealing, and labeling processes.

4. Printing and Converting:

   Ensures precise control of pneumatic systems in printing presses and converting machinery.

5. Food and Beverage Industry:

   Suitable for applications requiring sanitary and corrosion-resistant pneumatic control.

6. Process Control:

   Used in various industrial processes where pneumatic valves are needed to regulate airflow, pressure, or vacuum.

Advantages

• High Precision: The valve’s design ensures accurate and consistent control of airflow.
• Low Maintenance: Constructed with durable materials, reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs.
• Energy Efficiency: Efficient operation helps minimize energy consumption in pneumatic systems.
• Compatibility: Designed to work with a wide range of pneumatic components and systems.

Considerations

• Flow Rate: The low Cv value (0.05) indicates that the valve is suitable for low-flow applications. For higher flow rates, alternative models may be required.
• Environmental Conditions: While the valve is durable, it is essential to ensure that the operating environment (temperature, humidity, and exposure to chemicals) is within the specified range to maintain optimal performance.

The Clippard R311 is a robust and versatile 3/2-way pneumatic valve that offers reliable performance in a variety of industrial and automation applications. Its compact design, durability, and compatibility with various pneumatic systems make it a popular choice for engineers and designers seeking precise airflow control.