6 Key Benefits of Pinch Valves

Pinch valves are typically used in on/off applications. They can use many kinds of tubing and be configured many different ways. They are ideal for applications where cleanliness is important, and are also able to handle media with particulates. Check out this quick video to learn the top six benefits of pinch valves.

Video filmed at Clippard in Cincinnati, Ohio

VIDEO TRANSCRIPT:

Today we’re going to talk about pinch valves.

Pinch valves are typically used in an on/off application. They can use many kinds of tubing and be configured many different ways.

Here are 6 key benefits of pinch valves.

Number one is a pinch valve’s isolation characteristics. The only part the fluid comes in contact with is the tubing itself. This greatly simplifies fluid compatibility issues because it touches only the tubing material.

Number two—low power consumption compared to flow rate. The efficient construction of Clippard pinch valves allows for power requirements ranging from 1 to 7 watts, or air pilot options can even be 100% pneumatic.

Number three is long life. Unlike other pinch valves, Clippard pinch valves are designed for long and high cycle life. Plus in most cases, the tubing can easily be replaced further extending its life.

Which leads into our fourth key benefit—the tubing. Standard pinch valve tubing is soft, yet durable. Most pinch valves use silicone-based tubing that is between a 50 to 55 durometer, which is highly tolerant of particulates in the fluid stream. Every Clippard pinch valve comes with 12” of silicone tubing pre-installed. You can easily change tubes if a sterile fluid path is required, or when chemicals might create residue or debris. Check out our how-to videos to see how easy it is.

Now, on to number five. Another big reason to choose a pinch valve is that they have zero dead volume. This means that there are no areas where the media can be trapped. Again, in different types of valves, area in the flow path could trap fluid and cause contamination.

Which brings us to our last point in choosing a pinch valve. Number six—they have an unobstructed flow path. Pinch valves create minimal pressure drop. Unobstructed flow is also important when handling certain fluids that need to flow smoothly with minimal disruption.

We offer several sizes and shapes that can even be customized to fit your application, including customizing the valve to operate with your specified tubing. If you have any questions about pinch valves, please give me a call. Thanks for watching, and be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more exciting videos.