Valves and armatures for automotive and mechanical engineering

Armatures and valves enable the control and regulation of liquids, gases and vapour in various systems. These components are integral parts of many industrial processes and contribute significantly to efficiency, safety and mobility.

In the automotive industry, for example, valves regulate the fuel flow, exhaust gas recirculation and the pressure conditions in braking and steering systems. They are essential for the precise control of engines, cooling systems and powertrains, resulting in improved performance, fuel consumption and emission control. In electric vehicles, valves have taken on new tasks, such as regulating the temperature of batteries and electric drive systems to optimise their service life and efficiency.

In mechanical engineering, valves control pressure and flow in hydraulic and pneumatic systems. This is particularly important in manufacturing processes where precision and speed are crucial.

Industrial armatures and valves make a significant contribution to efficiency and safety in various areas of application. In mechanical and plant engineering, they control the pressure and flow in hydraulic and pneumatic systems, which increases productivity and protects against overpressure with safety valves. In the aerospace industry, valves ensure the regulation of pressure and temperature in fuel systems and engines. They are therefore crucial for safety and operation under extreme conditions. In automotive engineering, valves control critical systems such as fuel management, brakes and cooling circuits. Engine valves regulate the inlet and outlet of air and fuel, which optimises engine performance and fuel consumption.

The latest innovations in valve technology will be presented at VALVE WORLD EXPO. The highlights include:

• New materials: High-performance alloys and corrosion-resistant materials increase valve durability and reliability, while composite materials reduce weight and improve energy efficiency.
• Innovative designs: Lightweight valves and optimised flow geometries improve flow and minimise pressure losses, increasing the efficiency of systems.
• Digital control systems: Intelligent valves with integrated sensors enable real-time monitoring and predictive maintenance. Automated valve control systems are central components of Industry 4.0 applications and optimise production processes.
• Sustainable technologies: Energy-efficient valves and environmentally friendly materials contribute to the sustainability of systems and reduce the ecological footprint.

The integration of digital control systems turns valves and armatures into intelligent components that can be monitored and controlled in real time. Smart valves with sensors and actuators enable precise process control, predictive maintenance and contribute to increased efficiency. In self-driving cars, digital valves ensure optimum regulation of drive systems and safety functions, while sustainability influences development through the use of environmentally friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. Valves and fittings are designed to reduce energy consumption and extend the service life of systems.

In industrial mechanical engineering, valves and fittings with different types of actuators are used to fulfil the specific requirements of different processes. The most common actuator types are manual, electric, hydraulic and pneumatic.

Each of these actuator types offers specific advantages:

• Manual actuators
• Simple operation and maintenance: Manual valves are easy to use and require little maintenance.
• Cost efficiency: They are usually cheaper to purchase and operate than automated systems.
• Independence from energy sources: As they do not require external energy, they are ideal for applications without a power or compressed air supply.
• Reliability: Less susceptible to technical faults as no electrical or mechanical drive components are involved.

• Electric actuators
• Automation: Enable integration into automatic control systems and Industry 4.0 applications.
• Precision: Provide accurate control and positioning of valves for precise process control.
• Remote control: Can be operated remotely, increasing safety and improving ease of use.
• Energy efficiency: Modern electric actuators are energy efficient and have low power consumption.

• Hydraulic actuators
• High power transmission: Ideal for applications that require large forces, such as moving large or stuck valves.
• Compact design: Can generate high forces in a small space, saving space.
• Robustness: Suitable for use in demanding environments with high temperatures or explosive atmospheres.
• Speed: Offer fast response times and can open or close large valves quickly.

• Pneumatic actuators
• Fast actuation: Enable fast opening and closing cycles, which is important in processes with high cycle times.
• Safety: In the event of a power failure, they can be moved to a safe position (fail-safe function).
• Simplicity and reliability: Pneumatic systems are simple in design and have high operational reliability.
• Cost-effectiveness: Utilisation of compressed air, which is already available in many industrial plants, reduces additional costs.