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Mechanically and manually operated valves are among the most proven components in pneumatics. They enable safe control of compressed air without the need for electrical signals or external energy sources. The switching process is direct and clearly traceable, depending on the design, via rollers, tappets, levers, or buttons.
These valves offer practical advantages in many industrial applications. They are easy to install, require little maintenance, and are reliable even in harsh conditions. They are an economical and robust solution, especially when processes need to be controlled manually or movements in the system need to be used directly.
At Klefinghaus, you will find a wide selection of mechanical and manual valves from FESTO for a variety of requirements. These proven industrial products can be integrated into your systems with a perfect fit and support your applications with durable and reliable technology.
Control slide valve for precise control tasks in pneumatic systems
Compact valve with G1/8 connection for flexible installation options
Manual selector switch for simple switching functions during operation
Mechanical and manual valves are used to control the flow of compressed air or gases. They do not require any electrical or electronic control. Instead, they are triggered by a movement, either automatically during the process or specifically by an operator. A mechanical valve reacts to an external force. It is actuated, for example, by a tappet, a roller, or a lever. The trigger is activated automatically, for example when a machine part moves into a certain position. This allows subsequent processes to be controlled directly and reliably without anyone having to intervene. Manual valves, on the other hand, are deliberately operated by a person. This can be done using a lever, a button, or a foot pedal. The air flow is opened or closed as required – exactly when it is needed. Manual valves are used wherever direct control by humans is necessary or desired.
Both valve types are compact, reliable, and easy to operate. They can be easily integrated into existing systems and are particularly suitable when simple switching functions without electrical energy are required.
Mechanical and manual valves are available in various designs. FESTO offers numerous versions that perform different control and regulation tasks in compressed air systems, such as switching, blocking, or diverting air flows. In practice, simple, robust solutions are required that function reliably even under high loads.
Shut-off valves open or close a line completely. They are used, for example, during maintenance, when switching on a system, or to secure areas. Slide valves divert the air flow in a different direction. They are helpful when several paths are available or when two functions are to be controlled sequentially.
Check valves ensure that air flows in only one direction. They prevent backflow and thus protect sensitive parts in the system. Ball valves are very tight and can be operated quickly. They are a good choice when space is limited or when reliable sealing is important.
These valve types are used in many areas. They can be found, for example, in mechanical engineering, packaging technology, pneumatic controls, compressed air networks, and energy technology. They also have a firm place in control panels and in the process industry.
The appropriate design depends on the task. The installation situation and the desired switching function are important.
Check valves ensure that air flows in only one direction. They prevent backflow and thus protect sensitive parts in the system. Ball valves are very tight and can be operated quickly. They are a good choice when space is limited or when reliable sealing is important.
These valve types are used in many areas. They can be found, for example, in mechanical engineering, packaging technology, pneumatic controls, compressed air networks, and energy technology. They also have a firm place in control panels and in the process industry.
The appropriate design depends on the task at hand. Important factors include the installation situation, the desired switching function, and the requirements for durability and tightness. Choosing the right valve not only makes your system simpler, but also safer and more reliable.
Choosing the right material is crucial for the function, durability, and safety of a valve. Different materials are used depending on the medium, temperature, and environment. It is not just a question of whether the valve can withstand mechanical stress. Factors such as corrosion protection, weight, and hygiene requirements also play an important role. For industrial use, the material must be reliably suited to the application.
Stainless steel is one of the highest quality materials used in valve manufacturing. It is characterized by particularly high durability and resistance. Stainless steel valves are mainly used in demanding environments, such as in the food and pharmaceutical industries, in chemical processes, or wherever aggressive media are used. Stainless steel remains dimensionally stable and reliable even at high temperatures and pressures. This makes it the first choice for long-lasting solutions, even though it is more expensive than other materials.
Brass is a proven standard material for many applications involving water or compressed air. It is easy to process, dimensionally stable, and offers a good price-performance ratio. Brass valves are used, for example, in heating systems, ventilation systems, and simple pneumatic control systems. However, brass is not suitable for aggressive media or very high loads, as it can corrode.
Plastics such as PVC or POM are primarily used in applications where weight reduction is required or the material must be resistant to certain chemicals. Plastic valves are lightweight, inexpensive, and often corrosion-free. They are used, for example, in water treatment or laboratory applications. However, plastic quickly reaches its limits at high temperatures or under mechanical stress. It is therefore only suitable for systems with low pressure and moderate loads.
Cast iron is used wherever valves have to withstand very high pressures or temperatures. Typical areas of application are large steam or water systems, for example in heavy industry or energy supply. The material is extremely resilient, but relatively heavy and susceptible to rust. A suitable coating is necessary to ensure its long-term use.
Bronze offers particularly good corrosion resistance, especially when in contact with salt water or drinking water. The material is durable, reliable, and is often used in shipping and sanitary systems. Compared to brass, bronze is more expensive, but significantly more resistant when it comes to sensitive or aggressive environments.
Not sure which valve is right for your application? Or would you like to know which design can be best integrated into your system? We are happy to advise you on all technical and practical questions relating to selection, connection, and use. Together, we will find the best solution for your application.
If you are unsure, we will be happy to advise you on selecting the right valve. Please use our contact form for this purpose.
A mechanical valve is triggered by an external movement in the system. It reacts to elements such as levers, rollers, or tappets that are actuated by a machine part. Once a certain position is reached, the valve switches automatically. This allows, for example, the air flow in a system to be controlled in a targeted manner without the need for active intervention by a person.
A manual valve is operated directly by a person. This can be done using a hand lever, a foot pedal, or a rotary knob. The key difference therefore lies in the control system: with mechanical valves, activation occurs automatically during a process step. With manual valves, a person decides when the air flow should be controlled.
Mechanical and manual valves can be divided into different designs. Typical variants include shut-off valves, slide valves, roller valves, tappet valves, selector switches, and hand lever valves. They differ primarily in their function and the way they are operated.
The most suitable design depends on the intended use and the desired control system.
Mechanical and manual valves are used in many technical areas. These include, for example, manufacturing, mechanical engineering, and the process industry. They are also frequently found in simple maintenance or supply systems.
Mechanically operated valves are often used in automated processes. They switch when a part moves in the machine. For example, a valve can be triggered by a roller or a tappet as soon as a workpiece reaches a certain position. This automatically starts the next step, such as retracting a cylinder or diverting an air flow.
Manually operated valves are triggered by hand. They are always useful when a person needs to intervene in a specific way. This can be the case during maintenance, when starting a machine, or when opening and closing individual air lines. They are also important in emergency stop systems because they react quickly and directly.
The right valve depends on several factors. First, you need to determine whether the valve will be operated manually or automatically by movement in the system. The medium is also crucial. Will air, water, or another gas be controlled? The operating conditions are also important. The valve must be suitable for the existing pressure and temperature in the system. The frequency of operation and the space available for installation also play a role.
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