TLX Technologies has developed the 4-Way Switching Valve to give OEM and system design teams a solution for thermal management systems that has the performance characteristics and flexibility that they need to suit multiple vehicle platforms.
This high-flow, energy-efficient valve features near zero cross-flow leakage and a low pressure drop. It also supports both 12 and 24 Vdc operation, offers a choice of communication protocols, and can be specified with SAE port sizes up to 25.4 mm, all without any changes to the valve body, flow paths, or drive system.
The 4-Way Switching Valve provides precise, predictable, and controllable fluid flow. While many valves suffer from internal leakage, which can make cooling systems less efficient, TLX’s valve has been specifically designed to overcome this issue. This valve is able to operate with very low and predictably consistent bypass leakage, reducing the number of challenges design teams face when developing a thermal management system with the desired thermal efficiency and flow control characteristics.
The valve also helps to maximize the energy efficiency of the thermal management system in two important ways. First, the valve does not require constant power to maintain a commanded position. Second, the valve minimizes pressure drop through the use of smooth transitions and gradual turns of the fluid flow path through the valve. This allows the vehicle’s coolant pump to support the system’s fluid management requirements with less power. Together, these features help to reduce the vehicle’s overall energy consumption and improve mileage or range, regardless of the vehicle’s fuel type.
Courtesy of TLX.