info@nortrade.si | +386 4 531 75 50
info@nortrade.si | +386 4 531 75 50
We have one of the world's largest ranges of valves from those used in industrial applications to specialised, miniature valves for life science, food and beverage and the semiconductor industry.
Directional control valves for industrial applications.
Fluid Control Valves control the flow of a medium through a system, and are also commonly known as Process Valves.
Functional valves often serve a specific purpose, such as flow/pressure regulation, quick exhaust, non-return, shut-off, ball and logic function.
Valve islands are fully configurable to suit individual applications.
A solenoid valve (electric valve) opens/closes with an electromagnetic coil, so it can be controlled by an electrical signal — ideal for automated systems. A pneumatic valve is operated by compressed air and is typically part of pilot valve systems. In industry, the two are often combined: a small solenoid valve (pilot) controls a high-flow pneumatic valve.
The notation format is: number of ports / number of positions. Ports refers to the number of connection points on the valve, while positions refers to the possible switching states. For example, a 5/2 valve has 5 connection points and 2 switching positions — this is the basic element for controlling double-acting cylinders. A 3/2 valve (3 ports, 2 positions) is common for single-acting cylinders.
A proportional valve continuously and steplessly regulates airflow or pressure — unlike conventional valves that only know open/closed states. Typical applications: precision pressure regulation, speed control for cylinders, force control in press operations. NorTrade’s range includes Norgren proportional valves with electronic control and feedback.
A valve island is a compact assembly integrating multiple valves with common air supply and electrical connections (D-Sub, M8 or M12 connectors), plus Fieldbus or IO-Link communication interfaces. Benefits: less piping, faster installation, centralized control and diagnostics. It is worth using when many cylinders need to be controlled on a machine — for example in assembly machines, packaging machines, or robot cells.
Key factors: flow direction (2/2, 3/2, 5/2, 5/3 configurations), flow capacity (Kv value), operating pressure, actuation method (solenoid, pneumatic, manual), and environmental conditions. NorTrade engineers help with selection — request a quote for your specific application.
Kv (European/SI) and Cv (Imperial) characterize flow capacity — showing how much fluid/gas the valve can pass at a given pressure differential. The higher the value, the lower the flow resistance. In pneumatic applications, correct Kv sizing is critical: an undersized valve slows down the cylinder, while an oversized one is unnecessarily expensive and takes up space.
When designing and operating pneumatic systems in the EU, the following standards apply: ISO 4414 (general pneumatic safety requirements), EN ISO 13849 (safety controls within machines), and compliance with the 2006/42/EC Machinery Directive. Key principles: the system must always be depressurized before maintenance, maximum operating pressure is determined by the weakest component, and the pressure rating of pipes/hoses must be regularly inspected.
According to the lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedure: shut off the air supply at the main valve, then release residual pressure from the system through the exhaust valve. Verify with a pressure gauge that the pressure is truly zero, and only then perform any work. Never work on a pressurized system.
Send us the original part’s manufacturer code (part number) via the Get a Quote form or email to info@nortrade.hu. Our engineers will identify the product and provide the exact Norgren equivalent, price, and delivery time.
Norgren products are manufactured according to ISO and other international standards, so ISO-standard cylinders, fittings, and valves are physically compatible with same standard products from other manufacturers. NorTrade engineers help with cross-referencing — we provide exact cross-references and technical comparisons. Request a quote.
