Scanning for Ideas: A Pneumatic Valve is Only as Good as its Manifold

Key to a valve’s consistent performance and reliability is the manifold housing it. It channels compressed air to ensure the valve accomplishes its assigned function.

Manifolds designed by engineers at Clippard Instrument Laboratory, Cincinnati (clippard.com), can be used by the company’s full line of modular valves. Air enters through an octoport in the bottom of the manifold. It includes eight passageways for inputs, outputs, exhaust, power, and control signals. The main air passageway running up the center of the manifold lets air be used at any point along the valve’s axis.