Media-separated solenoid valves protect media from contamination

At least 10 million switching cycles and no contamination of the media: The media-separated 2/2 and 3/2-way valves of the new LVMK series are versatile and durable. They are especially suitable for the media-separated supply of gases and liquids in sensitive applications of medical technology. (Photo: SMC Deutschland GmbH)

Light, versatile, and reliable – the media-separated 2/2- and 3/2-way shut-off valves of the LVMK20/200 series from SMC are equipped with a separation seal that isolates the coil housing from the media area. The medium remains free from contamination, such as oil, grease, metal, or dust. This makes the valves particularly suitable for switching gases and liquids in sensitive applications in medical technology, for example in blood analysis devices, water purification, or for use in DNA, immunology, and molecular testing.

Reliable 10 million cycles switching

The media-contacting materials of the LVMK series are characterized by high chemical resistance. Depending on the medium, the user can choose between EPDM or FKM for the membrane, while the valve body is made of PPS. Wear and tear of the valves and susceptibility to faults are significantly reduced because the media-separated design prevents sticking of the actuator and corrosion. Additionally, their operational lifespan is extremely long: tests show that the valves of the LVKM series can switch at least 10 million cycles.

The media-separated solenoid valves of the new SMC LVMK series are true lightweight champions: they weigh less than 79 grams. By default, the LVMK 2/2- and 3/2-way valves are equipped with an EPDM membrane. The variants can not only be flanged but are also directly integrable into systems thanks to an integrated barb fitting (pipe version). Only the appropriate hose is needed; the hose sleeve is already integrated.

Optimized for precision and cost-effectiveness

The power consumption of the valves is a modest 3 watts. With a special housing design, SMC engineers have managed to limit the flow reduction within the valve to a maximum of 5 percent, minimizing the leakage rate. Thanks to good thermal separation between the actuator unit and the media area, hardly any heat transfer occurs from the coil to the media – important in sensitive applications. All media-contacting parts are oil-free, preventing contamination here as well.

Outstanding price-performance ratio

For Jamal Hamim, Manager of European Life Science Instruments at SMC, the media-separated solenoid valves of the LVKM20/200 series impress primarily due to their cost-effectiveness: "The low susceptibility to faults, reduced wear, and the extremely long durability of the LVMK valves with over 10 million switching cycles result in excellent cost efficiency overall. I would rate the price-performance ratio as outstanding."