Electrically operated valves:
Solenoid valves, Namur valves, ATEX valves and ISO valves.

The portfolio comprises electrically actuated directional control valves in 3/2-, 5/2-, and 5/3-way configurations, available as monostable or bistable versions as well as with a defined center position. The valves come in both direct-acting and pilot-operated designs and in NAMUR and ISO configurations.

Overview of Electrically Actuated Valve Types for Pneumatic Applications

3/2-Way Valves

Three ports, two switching positions. Normally closed (NC) or normally open (NO) in the de-energized position. When the coil is energized, the outlet port is either pressurized or exhausted to the atmosphere. Typical applications: single-acting cylinders, grippers, and clamps.

5/2-Way Valves

Five ports, two switching positions. These valves control double-acting actuators by alternately pressurizing either side of the piston. Available in monostable and bistable configurations. Standard for linear drives, rotary actuators, and handling tasks.

5/3-Way Valves

The same port geometry as the 5/2-way valve, but with a defined center position. AIRTEC offers all three common center-position variants: closed center, exhausted center, and pressurized center, depending on the required behavior in the event of signal loss or a mid-stroke stop.

Direct-Acting and Pilot-Operated Pneumatic Valves

AIRTEC electrically actuated valves are either direct-acting or pilot-operated.

In direct-acting valves, the solenoid actuates the spool directly, without any auxiliary medium. This enables operation from 0 bar and in vacuum applications, such as handling systems with vacuum grippers. Within the AIRTEC portfolio, direct-acting designs are limited to a few smaller series.

Pilot-operated valves make up the bulk of the range. Here, a small, direct-acting solenoid valve switches a pneumatic pilot pressure, which in turn actuates the main spool. This allows high flow rates with low electrical power consumption. By default, these valves cannot operate at 0 bar, as they require a minimum pilot pressure to switch. For applications that nevertheless call for vacuum or pressures close to 0 bar, versions with external pilot air are available: pilot pressure and working pressure are then supplied from separate air circuits.

Standardized Valves: NAMUR and ISO 5599-1

The NAMUR and ISO standards refer to the port pattern of the valve body, regardless of whether the valve is pneumatically or electrically actuated.

NAMUR valves are typically used to control rotary actuators, usually butterfly valves and control valves in the process industry. The standardized interface allows direct mounting onto the actuator, including in ATEX versions.

ISO valves according to ISO 5599-1 offer a manufacturer-independent interface in three standardized sizes (ISO 1–3), with nominal sizes from 9 to 14 mm and flow rates exceeding 4,000 Nl/min. They are mounted on standardized sub-bases, which are also available as linked manifold blocks.

System Integration: Sub-Bases and Valve Terminals

Electrically actuated valves can be mounted on sub-bases, with each valve receiving its own electrical connection. For centralized wiring, AIRTEC offers valve terminals: multiple valves on a shared manifold with integrated electronics, controlled via a multi-pin connector or standardized fieldbus systems. To the valve terminals.

Applications for Electrically Actuated Valves

• Packaging and Conveying Technology: Cycle control of gripping, sliding, and clamping units.
• Mechanical Engineering: Direct integration into PLC systems for custom machinery and systems.
• Process and Chemical Industries: NAMUR solenoid valves for rotary actuators, with ATEX versions for Zone 1/21.
• Handling Technology: Vacuum-capable versions for suction grippers and handling systems.
• Life Sciences / Medical Technology: Low-maintenance solenoid valves for hygienically sensitive processes.