With the compact, lightweight design of its AV series, Aventics (formerly Rexroth Pneumatics) is setting new benchmarks for pneumatic valves. The AVO5 valve system, the latest addition to the AV family, is designed to allow a closer mounting to actuators, lowering compressed air requirements! Its specialised designs optimise air-channelling for increased flow volume, up to 700 l/min, in minimal space. The result is the AVO5 that provides air flow channelling performance that is the best in its class.

As with its already available “little brother” AV03, the AV05 features an up to 45% more compact size compared with similar valves on the market. “But the modular range consists of much more than the two valves,” emphasises Wolf Gerecke, Head of Product Management at Aventics. “Customers who last saw the AV03 one year ago will be surprised at all the new features the AV system offers today – we have consistently added new options.” Compared with previous valve systems, the AV series features fast switching times, a low weight, and a small size. As with the AV03, the flow in the AV05 valve system was also optimised. “The valves can be mounted closer to where compressed air is required,” explains Gerecke. The decentralised Advanced Electronic System fieldbus connection also does its part. The AES processes analogue as well as digital signals and allows for fast assembly and flexible use.

The AV series – the latest valve generation

“We called all known principles of design, materials, and assembly into question during the development of this AV series,” Gerecke reports. Firstly, the valve components in the housing are arranged diagonally, saving up to 45% more space and secondly shorter distances between the actuator and valve allow for compressed air savings of up to 20%.

“These unique designs clearly show the innovative leap our AV family takes in pneumatics,” says Gerecke. The concept required much more work and expertise than simply the idea of using the maximum length in a specified geometry. For example, high-tech polymers were implemented and a new injection-moulding process was developed specifically to be able to realise the design principle. These new materials make the product up to 40% lighter.

The AV series is based on expert development and engineering, production, service, and logistics – all of these areas are seamlessly intertwined in the AV05 and are geared towards the needs of customers and innovative engineering. As a result, the AV system is a perfect fit for the philosophy followed by the manufacturer, because, with the new company and brand name, Aventics is setting the course for top customer focus, speed, and flexibility. The AV Series and all Aventics products are available in South Africa exclusively though Tectra Automation, a member of the Hytec Group of Companies.