Pneumatic manifolds handle two valve sizes

Festo is launching a major new family of electropneumatic valves which allow automation systems to be built around configurable manifolds.

The VTSA family is compatible with both 18mm (ISO 02) and 26mm (ISO 01) valves. Both sizes can be combined in one installation without an adapter, saving considerable installation space.

The family includes more than 150 new components, ranging from solenoid valves, through sub-bases, end-plates and gaskets, to a wide choice of vertically stackable components and accessories such as pressure and flow regulators and hot-swap adapter plates.

When developing the new range, Festo paid close attention to making it easy to configure and access. The modular design allows systems to be built with different pressure zones, gas zones, and electrical power isolation.

VTSA supports "hot swap" valve changeovers, allowing valve bodies to be exchanged without turning off the air supply to the manifold. It is also possible for all air connections to face in the same direction, thus making best use of the available space or improving controls layouts.

Electrical actuation can be achieved via terminal boxes, multi-pin connections, or Festo`s CPX modular electrical I/O system. Integrated diagnostics reveal incorrect valve allocations, coil short-circuits or missing load supplies via LEDs.

Festo is providing a free software tool for configuring VTSA systems, via its online shop. Configurations generated in this way can be ordered electronically using a single part number, for delivery in the UK as assembled and tested modules within two days.