Pneumatic Actuated Knife Gate Valves

Pneumatic actuated knife and wedge gate valves are linear pneumatic actuator shut-off valves for automated on-off control.

The advantage of pneumatically operated knife and wedge valves over electric ones is their simplicity and high reliability. Pneumatic cylinders manufactured by Specialist, responsible for lifting the gate, can operate in harsh conditions — they withstand vibrations well, have a high operating range of air pressure and temperature. Our range includes pneumatic actuators with ISO sizes, making them interchangeable with other European made ones.

Components for pneumatic actuated knife gate valve

1. Gate position sensors. Two reed sensors can be fixed on the pneumatic actuator, which will respond to the approach of a magnet located on the piston. The second method is using a non-contact inductive switch — a sensor which activates when approaching the metal plate of the knife during lift.
2. 5/2 pneumatic valves. These are valves for controlling the position of the pneumatic actuator — they switch the supply of compressed air between the first and second inlet. Most often, 5/2 air valves are used, which operate via electrical signal.
3. Compressed air preparation units. They perform air filtration, pressure reduction and, less frequently, inject oil into the air for internal lubrication of the pneumatic actuator. Generally, the cycle frequency of knife gate valves is low, so it is recommended to equip them with a filter regulator.
4. Pneumatic fittings. For valve drives with pressure up to 10 bar, plastic push-in connectors are sufficient for connecting to pneumatic actuators and tube distributors.
5. Pneumatic silencers. These devices are screwed into the exhaust ports of the valve and are necessary for dispersing air at the exhaust, reducing noise and providing additional protection from debris entering the pneumatic valve. We offer bronze and plastic-polypropylene silencers to equip pneumatically operated knife gates.