New Valve from SPX Flow Reduces Risk of Hand Injuries

Bolting Systems, an SPX FLOW brand, has announced the launch of its Bolting flow control valve (BFCV), designed to prevent accidental operation while a torque wrench is being positioned by the operator, minimizing the risk of entrapment or nipped fingers during setup.

In noisy environments or when the line of sight between pump and tool operators is impeded, there is the possibility of miscommunication. If an operator starts the pump before a torque wrench is in position, it can lead to severe hand injuries. The BFCV gives control to the tool operator and isolates the tool from the pump until it is in position. Unlike some alternative solutions, the unit is lightweight and the trigger fully pressure balanced, making it easy to operate even over prolonged periods. The trigger is squeezed upward, away from the valve, and is positioned to keep the operator’s hand away from the pressure part of the valve. The lightweight valve completely isolates the wrench from the pump and is easy to use.

The valve’s ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue and its two-stage trigger system of an interlock and a trigger, prevents accidental starting. It ensures that operators can safely carry out tool drive direction changes and link switch-over on low-profile tools. During the torque operation, the operator can override the pump and stop the wrench at any time, further enhancing safety.

Other features of the valve include generous handle space and non-slip handles for easy operation even with gloved hands. The valve is pressure tested to minimum 20,000 psi (1380 bar), providing a 2:1 safety factor. Although of lightweight construction, it is highly robust and corrosion resistant for use in harsh working environments.

 “The BFCV has all the safety features to protect tool operators’ hands from accidental pump operation but we designed the unit to be extremely practical and easy to use on-site,” said David Campbell, global product director and site lead – Bolting Systems at SPX FLOW. “It is not heavy or cumbersome, the fully balanced trigger is lightweight to operate, and the design ensures no undue stress on the tool hydraulic connections, which can lead to premature leakage.”

For more information, visit www.spxboltingsystems.com.