ROSS Energy Saving Technology
Pneumatic Energy Isolation is achieved with a manually operated valve in a system that stops the further input of a specific energy. Isolation devices for pneumatic systems are generally used in conjunction with a bleed device that is used to dissipate energy that may be downstream of the isolation device. In most pneumatic devices, the isolation device and bleed device are combined into a single component that shuts off the supply of pneumatic energy and also exhausts downstream pneumatic energy from as far downstream as possible.
- Here are some simple design guidelines from the safety standards to keep in mind when setting up your pneumatic lockout and energy isolation system:
- The energy isolation device should be unique in appearance compared to other ON/OFF devices
- The energy isolation device should dump hazardous energy quickly
- The energy isolation device should only be lockable in the OFF position
- The system should include a visible indication of a safe condition
A safe manufacturing environment must include a healthy respect for the, sometimes dangerous, interactions between man and machinery. This is reflected in the evolution in the once simple and now sophisticated safety-related valves. In pneumatic and hydraulic circuits where the primary concern is the removal of pneumatic or hydraulic energy from a device or system, additional dump or exhaust valves are typically incorporated specifically for this function.
The function of a Safety Exhaust Control Valve mimics that of an electrical control relay and is subject to the same rules for classifying safety integrity. Properly specified machine safeguarding systems include provisions for pneumatic valves including:
- Must be functionally redundant
- Must be monitored for faults (including diminished performance faults which may create the loss of redundancy) without depending on external machine controls or safety circuitry
- Must return to a safe position in the event of a loss of pressure or other such event Able to inhibit further operation upon detection of a fault until it is corrected
Safe Cylinder Return
ROSS CrossMirror Double Valves provides control reliable cylinder/actuator control resulting in increased safety and savings.
Typical safety designs look to remove the air to a machine or zone. If there is a single actuator hazard it can be controlled with a safety control valve providing point of use control. This provides not only safety but offers savings in air consumption and eliminates any downtime due to recharging the system.
The CrossMirror valve is internally self-monitored and requires no additional valve monitoring controls. It also includes a status indicator switch (ready-to-run) to inform machine controller of the valve condition. This switch must be integrated into machine controls in order to prevent a run signal until the valve fault is cleared.
These valves are used in a variety of applications including cylinder presses, potentially hazardous filling applications where spilling is not an option, and critical clamping applications.
Cylinder applications must take into consideration what happens with the loss of air pressure and how will impact the safety of both man and machine. This is especially important with vertical cylinder applications.
Pilot Operated Check Valves, otherwise known as PO Checks, are used wherever a high-flow or remotely controlled checking function is needed to provide cylinders to automatically stop in the event of the loss of electrical power or system air.
A pilot operated check valve is designed to trap pressure and hold a load in place. The design provides a positive force using the force of the trapped pressure to help hold the internal poppet seat in place. The trapped pressure will need to be exhausted safely to resume normal machine operation.
In addition to single and dual valve options, ROSS Controls 27 Series PO Check Valves are offered with manual and remote trapped pressure relief options to provide a safe exhaust function.