Precise switching
The valve control module VAEM from Festo makes precise switching of solenoid valves easier than ever. Up to 8 channels can be parameterised individually. A time resolution of only 0.2 ms and control of the valves via current – not voltage – ensure high precision, e.g. for dispensing applications. The holding current reduction saves energy and minimises heat input.
Customers currently wishing to implement holding current reduction or control solenoid valves very precisely have to design the relevant control electronics themselves. The valve control module VAEM is extremely easy to parameterise thanks to its RS232 interface – and via a GUI. This simplifies the configuration and control of solenoid valves, as the settings for the inrush and holding currents as well as the respective time constants can be defined independently for each channel. The module also improves the precision of the switching behaviour of the valves, as it is controlled by current rather than voltage. The dispensing process is controlled via an external trigger signal or the communication interface.
Its compact form makes it suitable not only for bench-top devices in laboratory automation, but also anywhere where solenoid valves are used. The valve control module VAEM is ideal for controlling dispense heads, as each channel can be controlled individually. Users can therefore calibrate even the smallest manufacturing tolerances or viscosity differences and achieve above-average tip-to-tip coefficients of variation.
Festo is a global player and an independent family-owned company with headquarters in Esslingen am Neckar, Germany. Festo has set standards in industrial automation technology and technical education ever since its establishment, thereby making a contribution to sustainable development of the environment, the economy and society. The company supplies pneumatic and electrical automation technology to 300,000 customers of factory and process automation in over 35 industries. Digitalization, AI and the LifeTech sector with medical technology and laboratory automation are becoming increasingly important. The products and services are available in 176 countries. With about 20,600 employees in over 250 branch offices in around 60 countries worldwide, Festo achieved a turnover of around €3.65 billion in 2023. Each year around 7% of this turnover is invested in research and development. In this learning company, 1.5 % of turnover is invested in basic and further training. Festo Didactic SE is a leading provider of technical education and training and offers its customers worldwide comprehensive digital and physical learning solutions in the industrial environment.
