Nordson EFD introduces the xQR41 Series MicroDot needle valve

June 23, 2015 - Nordson EFD introduces the xQR41 Series MicroDot needle valve. The valve features a 60% smaller form factor than standard valves, an exchangeable modular design for greater customization and process control, and a Quick Release (QR) clasp that allows easy removal of the fluid body to replace wetted parts in seconds. The valve expands manufacturing opportunities for multiple applications and industries, especially those related to wireless devices, sensors, mobile phones, and other high-end electronics.

The xQR41 valve's small profile of 66 mm length x 23.7 mm diameter (2.60" x 0.93") enables multiple valves to be mounted closer together for greater output per batch, increasing production throughput. Ideal for automated assembly processes, the needle valve can dispense in tighter spaces and at more complex angles. Weighing only 141.4 g (5.0 oz), the xQR41 valve reduces the tooling payload. This not only means faster actuator arm movement and improved positioning stability, but also reduced tabletop automation (TTA) motor and belt wear. The xQR41's small form factor also results in a smaller wetted path, resulting in less retained fluid volume, which minimizes fluid waste. It can be fed from a variety of reservoirs, syringe barrels, external cartridges, or tanks.

The valve's QR clasp secures the fluid body to the air actuator and can be removed with a turn of a thumbscrew - no tools required. No longer is it necessary to remove the entire actuator or valve assembly from mounting fixtures. Full change-outs take seconds, not minutes. This is especially important in applications with fluids that have a curing time where the wetted part must be removed as quickly as possible and returned to operation.
The pneumatically-operated, adjustable valve applies precise micro-deposits as small as 150 µm (0.15 mm) (0.006") of low- to high-viscosity fluids onto a substrate. The xQR41's exchangeable modular design can be configured with stroke adjustable or non-adjustable cap, BackPack valve actuator, low-profile mounting block, and 90° air and fluid inlet fittings. The fluid body can be aligned and locked at 360° intervals to accommodate mounting, positioning, and fluid inlet alignment needs. It can be installed on many automation platforms.

"With rapid interchangeability, a smaller form factor, and infinite configurability, Nordson EFD's new xQR41 MicroDot needle valve not only offers new possibilities for fluid dispensing, but it also saves time and costs and increases productivity," said Claude Bergeron, product manager, Nordson EFD.About

Nordson EFD

Nordson EFD designs and manufactures precision fluid dispensing systems for benchtop assembly processes and automated assembly lines. By enabling manufacturers to apply the same amount of adhesive, lubricant or other assembly fluid to every part, every time, EFD dispensing systems are helping companies in a wide variety of industries increase throughput, improve quality, and lower their production costs. Other fluid management capabilities include high-quality syringe barrels and cartridges for packaging one- and two-component materials, along with a wide variety of fittings, couplers and connectors for controlling fluid flow in medical, biopharmaceutical and industrial environments.