Issue link: https://onenorgren.uberflip.com/i/647169
A white paper 07 Following are three examples of machines where manifold assemblies designed by IMI Precision Engineering solved specific problems. Leveling Valve Manifold A transportation application required valves that could inflate or exhaust bags in an air suspension system to raise and lower a vehicle quickly and smoothly. IMI Precision Engineering designed an assembly using an aluminum block manifold with three Nugget 200 spool valves operated by Webber solenoid valves. The Nugget 200 has a proven track record in commercial vehicle and rail applications over several years and the Webber solenoids were chosen for their reliability in challenging operating environments. A design change added the requirement to stabilize the vehicle when cornering. IMI Precision Engineering was able to expand the existing aluminum block manifold slightly to increase the number of valves from three to five to meet this new demand. By using a manifold instead of individual valves, IMI Precision Engineering eliminated the need for individual piping, simplifying installation and maintenance while improving reliability. Portable Ventilator/Respiratory Therapy Device The IMI Precision Engineering assembly integrated an accumulator, valves, pressure transducers, a custom outlet block and a built-in filter assembly. This manifold assembly was created to fit into an unusually slim housing. Integrating the accumulator and filter allowed the assembly to fit the small footprint and also reduced weight - a key requirement in portable equipment. All the valves were designed by IMI FAS for manifold mounting, so combining them with an IMI Norgren KIP manifold delivered a single-source turnkey assembly, simplifying acquisition for the customer. DNA Analysis System In this lab-on-chip application, the OEM needed to move small samples and multiple reagents at high speeds with high reliability. IMI Precision Engineering recommended an acrylic manifold because of the complexity of air channels routed to multiple locations. An acrylic laminated manifold allowed IMI Precision Engineering to deliver a complicated but compact structure at a reasonable cost. The four-layer laser-bonded manifold holds nearly 60 valves, each meeting different requirements for speed, longevity, and salt and moisture resistance depending on their function. The manifold had to be designed to mate with a chip, so dimensional stability was critical. Manifolds At Work Some Examples Engineering GREAT Solutions