Installed before the supply manifold, cooling water is displaced by shop air, eliminating the need to drain each cooling water line individually. SWAP Valve is a simple, manually selectable device that supplies cooling water to the mold during processing or air to purge the water from the mold, cooling lines, Supply and Return manifolds before tool change.
Corrosion-Resistant Materials:
Reinforced Molded Body with Stainless Steel Disc (1-inch) left
Original Brass Body with Stainless Steel Disc (1 and 2-inch) right
The 3-position shear valve is a proven design. The valve selector handle has three positions: WATER, PURGE and VENT. A check valve should be installed in the return line downstream from the Return manifold to prevent backflow to the mold. Check valves may be purchased separately.
Tubing may be connected to the manual vent-drain port so any residual water after the purge cycle can be drained into a suitable container or floor drain.
An optional spring-loaded, locking mechanism on the valve selector assembly is available for molders who require additional protection from accidental valve movement.
Application: The SWAP Valve is well-suited for cooling water Supply lines up to 2-inch NPT on frequently changed tools that are hung on small to medium tonnage injection molding machines. It is permissible to adapt 3/4, 1-1/4 and 1-1/2 inch line sizes providing adequate cooling water flow can be achieved. Typical mounting is on the press frame or the safety door frame. Mounting on any suitable surface, such as a platen, mold or manifold stand is acceptable.
Closed Loop Water Systems
TACO Air Separator (sold separately), installed per the diagram on right, will remove air from the water before it reaches the temperature control unit. If temperature control units are not used, an air separator may be installed at the highest point in the return cooling water loop to remove air from the system.
Molder Benefits
Pressure Ratings
Model | Max. Operating Pressure | Max. Operating Temperature |
---|---|---|
1" Molded Body | 150psi(10.3bar) | 250°F(121°C) |
1" Brass Body | 150psi(10.3bar) | 250°F(121°C) |
2" Brass Body | 150psi(10.3bar) | 250°F(121°C) |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to evacuate the air from mold and cooling lines using the SWAP Valve? | It should take about 30 seconds to clear the cooling water. However, it depends on the number of cooling lines, their diameter and length, plus the air pressure applied. |
How do I know when the lines are clear? | Install a visual flow meter on the return side of the cooling water loop. You should be able to see when there is no longer any water inside the meter. Then you will know the water has cleared. |
Where is the best place to install an air separator? | The air separator should be placed in the highest possible point of the return line after the check valve. |