The Precision Fluidics Division of Parker Hannifin Corporation, a global manufacturer of motion and control technologies, recently announced the release of its newest miniature solenoid poppet valve, the LX Series. It is a latching valve based on the popular X-Valve family. The LX significantly increases battery life in portable medical devices to provide efficient, high performing pneumatic on/off control in a compact 8 mm size.
The special latching feature enables the valve to remain in open or closed positions over indefinite periods of time without consuming battery power. With a single AA lithium-ion battery the LX series can power over 1.4 million valve switching cycles. For medical equipment designers this can mean smaller battery packs and lighter weight for their devices. Flow rates have also increased up to 50% over standard models. The new LX series complements the highly successful X-Valve product line that offers rapid on/off response for high duty cycle applications.
As the need for more-affordable and portable devices is evident to meet burgeoning healthcare demands there is increased attention on remote point-of-care, preventative testing and early diagnosis. The LX valve’s small footprint, low weight, and durability combine to offer an ideal solution for handheld or desktop devices that must provide reliable fluidic performance.