Smaller, Lighter Proportional Valves Save Energy.

A new type of miniature proportional valve which helps designers to meet the familiar objectives of ‘make it smaller, lighter and more energy efficient’, has been developed by miniature component specialists LEE PRODUCTS. The Lee proportional valve offers important advantages when compared with traditional solenoid type proportional valves, namely saving space, weight and power consumption in analytical machines.

Unlike most of the miniature solenoid valves typically available, the Lee proportional valve uses shape memory wire technology to vary flow and provide actuation, as opposed to a spring. When a current is applied the shape memory alloy wire heats up in the valve and changes shape, this causes deformation and results in the valve opening up in proportion to the current applied.

This innovative design eliminates the need for a magnet, coil wire, or steel armature typically used in traditional miniature solenoid valves, so it’s smaller and lighter. These characteristics will be especially appreciated by designers of portable, hand-held, battery powered instruments such as gas detectors used in OEM, medical, laboratory and other similar applications. For example, mass flow controllers, blood pressure cuff monitors, ventilators and oxygen concentrators.

These Lee proportional valves are suitable for use on mediums which are clean or dry, non-corrosive, non-flammable, air or gases.

The other key features of these 2-way, NC configuration valves are a weight of 1.2 grams, maximum power consumption of 1.5 VDC (battery powered), a current draw of 600 mA (max).

They have a flow capacity of 8 SLPM at 15 psig, operating pressure of 15 psig and operating temperature range of 40°F to 105°F. The valves are constructed from elastomer FKM with wetted materials including Polycarbonate, brass, Elastomer, PEEK, 316 SS, Flexinol and Epoxy.