High valve performance in compact form for medical device applications

10 June, 2016

This ensures that medical devices can benefit from a miniature valve that doesn’t compromise on performance due to size. Typical applications for the new valve include pressure control, volumetric flow control and pulse dose control in devices such as portable oxygen concentrators, ventilators and patient monitors.

Reliable operation

Another key requirement for the medical device industry is reliability of operation, which ultimately can be the difference between life and death. With the VSO LowPro reliability is assured with operations up to 25 million cycles, thus delivering that much needed peace of mind.

By their very nature, portable medical devices also need to consume low power and feature high performance; the new valve series is claimed to deliver in these two vital areas. The VSO LowPro miniature proportional valve offers typical flow rates of up to 45 SLPM with a maximum of 2W power at room temperature. Additionally, with an orifice of up to 2.03 mm and a weight of 12 g, the VSO LowPro can perform the function of valves three times its size without sacrificing power.

Low profile design

Parker comments that it is also important for OEMs to keep a tight control on costs to be competitive. The valve features a low profile design which simplifies mounting and eliminates cartridge configurations that require complex and expensive machining, thus keeping a tight control on cost.

Compliant with REACH, RoHS, CE, ISO 10993 and ISO 145001, three voltage models are available, 5, 12 and 24 VDC. The two-way, normally closed VSO LowPro valve is designed to handle air, oxygen or any non-reactive, non-condensing gases. Very low power, typically 1W, enables portable capability and allows designers to reduce the size of the power supply or battery.

The VSO LowPro valve can be controlled by either voltage or current; however, it is recommended that current control be employed to ensure the most repeatable valve flow performance. For PWM (pulse width modulation) control, the signal applied to the valve should have a frequency of between 5-12 kHz, with the optimum frequency dependent on the application.

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