Air valve

Description

An air valve opens, closes or throttles a line of compressed air. On laser and CNC machines it is commonly found in the air-assist supply to the cutting head, in pneumatic lines feeding cylinders or clamps, or on hoses from the workshop compressor, giving the operator direct control over where and how much air flows.

A valve that needs replacing may leak with a hissing sound, fail to shut off fully, turn stiffly, or restrict airflow even when fully open. Check its threads and fittings for damage, use a suitable thread sealant when installing, and make sure the arrow on the body, if there is one, points in the direction of flow.

Valves come in different port sizes, thread types and pressure ratings, and some are manual while others are solenoid-operated. To order the right one, tell us the hose or thread size and where the valve sits on your machine, and include a photo of the existing part. Top Laser's spare-parts staff will compare it and recommend the equivalent.