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7.4: Operation of a N.O. 3/2 DCV Connected to a Single-Acting Cylinder

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    117434
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    Connecting and Operating a Normally Open (N.O.) Single-Acting Cylinder Using a 3/2 DCV

    A pneumatic schematic (ISO 1219)
    Figure \(\PageIndex{1}\): A pneumatic schematic (ISO 1219)

    De-energized Condition: Initially, when the push button of the 3/2 DCV is not pressed, the valve remains in its de-energized position. In this state, the supply pressure from port P is connected to port A (connected to the cylinder), and the exhaust port (E) is blocked.

    Pneumatic schematic of single-acting cylinder, rod retracting and operator button depressed
    Figure \(\PageIndex{2}\): A pneumatic schematic (ISO 1219)

    Energizing the Cylinder: When the operator presses the push button of the 3/2 DCV, the valve shifts, and air flows from port P to port A become blocked. The exhaust port (E) connects with port (A), and the cylinder retracts due to the force from the internal spring. The spring then retracts the cylinder rod as the pressure on the cap end drops to zero.

    De-energizing and Retracting: Releasing the button returns the valve to its de-energized position. This action connects port P and port A, causing port E to become blocked again, allowing the air in the cylinder’s cap end to pressurize. The spring inside the cylinder holds the rod in its extended position.

    Cycling the Cylinder: By repeatedly pressing and releasing the push button, the operator can "cycle" the cylinder between its extended and retracted positions. If the button is released while the cylinder is extending, the rod will immediately start extending because the valve shifts to its de-energized position, connecting the supply pressure to the cylinder.

    The 3/2 DCV provides an efficient method for controlling single-acting, spring-return cylinders, simplifying the operation of applications where pneumatic power is needed in only one direction. In some cases, a 3-way valve can be used for high-speed or high-pressure applications.


    7.4: Operation of a N.O. 3/2 DCV Connected to a Single-Acting Cylinder is shared under a not declared license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by LibreTexts.

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