Parker Hannifin Corp., Richland, Mich., expanded its Standard LV Series Pneumatic Lockout Valve with new Compact and High Flow versions with additional body and port sizes. The lockouts are installed in pneumatic drop legs or individual pneumatic control lines.

In compliance with OSHA Standard 29 CFR Part 1010, the lockout valves are used during the maintenance of pneumatically operated equipment. The valves help protect maintenance personnel from being harmed by a machine that might otherwise engage while in operation.

The Standard LV Series features port sizes ranging from 3/8 inch to 1-1/4 inch and is ideal for most applications. The new Compact version, which features ¼- and 3/8-inch port sizes, is for smaller machines such as packaging and machine tools where space is at a premium, but must still meet OSHA requirements. The High Flow LV Series, which features 1- to 1/2-inch and 2-inch port sizes, is ideal for higher flow applications such as power generation and pulp and paper. All versions operate in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 175°F. The Compact version handles inlet pressures of 15-145 psi, while both the Standard and the High Flow versions handle inlet pressures of 15-300 psi.  All versions are inline or surface mountable and come in safety yellow and red for high visibility.

Additionally, Parker’s new EZ Series of Pneumatic Lockout Valves meets all of the same standards as the LV Series, with the added feature of a soft start when opened. The handle pushes to close and pulls to open, but when pulled open, an adjustable needle valve controls the rate of pressure buildup. This can protect equipment during startup after maintenance.  The valves feature port sizes ranging from 3/8 inch to 1-1/4 inch and handle inlet pressures of 30-150 psi.

Parker’s new LVSS Series comprises corrosion-resistant stainless-steel versions of the LV Series, providing what is said to be the only OSHA-approved option in the industry for lockouts made from stainless steel. The valves are suitable for washdown areas in the food and beverage industry.

The LV, EZ and LVSS Series all improve on the common, non-OSHA-approved approach of using a traditional ball valve to shut off the air to a machine during maintenance. Unlike traditional ball valves, the Parker solutions are dedicated energy isolation devices. As such, they are easily identifiable, only lockable in the OFF position and have a full exhaust port.

Additionally, an important new option for the LV, EZ and LVSS Series valves is a visual indicator that verifies energy isolation by popping up when the valve is open and air is flowing.

Parker Hannifin Corp., Pneumatic Division
269-629-5000
www.parker.com