Precision orifices are small devices used to accurately and consistently control the flow of a liquid or gas through a tubing system. They’re found in a diverse range of products, from coffeemakers to complex and critical systems for the aviation and aerospace industries and the delivery of anesthesia and other medical applications.
What Are Precision Orifices?
Precision orifices, also known as flow restrictors, perform exactly that job—providing a regulated, precise, consistent flow, controlling the speed and volume of a liquid or gas that passes through a system. At its most basic premise, a precision orifice is a solid part with a carefully measured hole in it through which liquid or gas flows.
The opening, typically 1/8″ or smaller, controls and regulates the passage of the liquid or gas to create a steady, accurate stream with a consistent flow for reliable, repeatable results. Careful measurements are needed to select or design a flow restrictor with the correct size, shape, diameter, material, and features to ensure the desired functionality and appropriate material for environmental conditions and the substances with which the orifice will be in contact.
Some aspects of flow control offered by precision orifices include:
- Flow Rate: Precision orifices provide a steady, measured, precisely-controlled volume of liquid or gas flowing through a system.
- Flow Timing: Precision orifices can supply a consistent, predictable flow rate often critical for many pneumatic and hydraulic circuits for safety and preventing malfunctions.
- Flow Ratios: Precision orifices can be installed so that multiple individual flows of gas or liquid are passed through the system to create a consistent, regulated mixture in the desired ratio.
Precision orifices can function independently, with little to no maintenance. This regularity can reduce system stresses caused by inconsistent flow regulation, improving overall system integrity, performance, and durability. This also means that systems and products which incorporate precision orifices will operate uniformly and accurately.
Precision Orifice Applications
Precision orifice fittings can be simple, have in-line orifice restrictors that create the desired flow rate, can incorporate integrated filters, create directional flow (restricted in one direction and free flowing in the other), and can be produced in standard fashion, or with barbs, threaded fittings, or as a needle valve for adjustable flows. Typical materials we use include polysulfone (PSU), polycarbonate (PC), nylon, and stainless steel. Polypropylene Applications for precision orifices include any scenario in which the flow of liquid or gas must be carefully controlled to achieve expected results. Among specific industries, uses of precision orifices include:
Industrial Processes and Automation
Because precision orifices generally work smoothly without intervention, once installed, they are an ideal solution for industrial and manufacturing processes, supporting uninterrupted and automated production.
Medical, Dental, and Scientific
Precision orifices are an ideal match for the exacting requirements of medical and scientific applications, offering reliable, accurate flow control. In the medical and dental industries, they are commonly used to regulate the delivery of analgesics, anesthesia, and oxygen, as well as supporting hydraulic elements in diagnostic, imaging, respiration, beds, and other vital equipment. Scientific laboratory equipment also relies on the consistency and precisely controlled flow of liquids and gases for proper testing, experimentation, and analysis.
Marine, Aviation, and Aerospace
From the hydraulics that power fishing boat equipment to vital controls and systems in airplanes, helicopters, and spacecraft, accurate and reliable regulation of liquid and gas flow is key. Small but critical precision orifices enable braking, actuators, HVAC systems, landing gears, and numerous other systems to work smoothly and effectively.
Plumbing and HVAC
Because they typically control heated or cooled air — as well as water, oil, and other fuels — plumbing and HVAC systems require the accurate, dependable controls provided by precision orifices. Air Logic’s history began in the HVAC industry, at the time orifices were used to control the opening of HVAC valves.
Oil and Gas
The high-pressure nature of oil and gas drilling requires dependable precision orifices which allow careful regulation of equipment controls, hydraulics, pumps, lubrication, and more.
Precision Orifices from Air Logic
At Air Logic, we offer a wide array of stock precision orifices and custom fittings to meet the exact specifications of our customers. Whatever your liquid or gas flow control needs, our expert team has decades of experience and professional expertise to provide a solution. Contact us today to learn more, or request a quote for your next project.
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