Lockout valves facilitate processing equipment safety

The Michigan-based firm has added new Compact and High Flow versions to its Standard LV Series pneumatic lockout valves. The lockouts, installed in pneumatic drop legs or individual pneumatic control lines, are designed to help protect maintenance personnel from being injured while cleaning or fixing equipment.

Variety of options​

The Standard LV Series, suited for most applications, features port sizes ranging from 3/8 in. to 1 1/4 in. and is ideal for most applications. The new Compact version, which features 1/4 inch and 3/8-inch port sizes, is suited for smaller machines (such as packaging and machine tools) where space is at a premium.

The High Flow LV Series, which features 1-1/2 inch and 2-inch port sizes, is geared toward higher flow applications. All versions operate in temperatures ranging from 40 degrees F to 175 degrees F (4.4 degrees C to 79.4 degrees C). The Compact version handles inlet pressures of 15 to 145 psi, while both the Standard and the High Flow versions handle inlet pressures of 15 to 300 psi. All versions are inline or surface mountable and come in safety yellow and red for high visibility.

Soft start​

The company also is introducing the EZ Series of pneumatic lockout valves, which build upon the standard version with the addition of a soft start when opened. The handle pushes to close and pulls to open, but when pulled open, an adjustable needle valve controls the rate of pressure build-up. This can protect equipment during start up after maintenance. The valves feature port sizes ranging from 3/8 inch to 1-1/4 inch and handle inlet pressures of 30 to 150 psi.

Further, the new LVSS Series comprises corrosion-resistant stainless steel versions of the LV Series. The valves are suitable for washdown areas in food processing, beverage production and other applications.

According to the manufacturer, the pneumatic lockout valves are preferable to traditional ball valves. The devices are dedicated energy isolation devices, easily identifiable, only lockable in the off position and feature a full exhaust port.