Champagne solution beats the fizz

Dean Palmer reports on a new chemical needle valve that eliminates the formation of bubbles in fluid circuits during the manufacturing process A common problem in both the semiconductor and chemical manufacturing industries is that it is almost impossible to prevent the formation of 'bubbles' in the fluid circuit during the manufacturing process. After extensive research and development, a company has solved this problem by developing a needle valve that eliminates these bubbles. SMC's new Series LVN needle valve, launched in May this year, prevents the formation of bubbles in liquids, especially light liquids. The valves are manufactured from a new type of lightweight PFA material, which is highly compatible with acids, bases and ultra pure water. The valve is normally installed on top of the filter unit and regulates flow rates between 0 and 12 litres/min. When used in combination with SMC's LQ2 hyper PFA fittings - which have a unique quadruple seal construction - excellent performance is achieved, offering the benefits of minimal leakage, reduced residual fluid and high flexural strength. The valves are ideal when working with fluids between 5°C and 90°C, at operating pressures of 0 to 0.5 MPa and in ambient temperatures of 0°C to 60°C.