Elkhart Brass Manufacturing Company, Inc. introduces the next generation in electric valves for fire apparatus – the new Unibody actuators, the E3F and E4F. These two actuators represent the first major extension of the Elkhart Brass Unibody valve product line since its introduction two years ago.
For this OEM-driven innovation, Elkhart has taken the electronics out of the controller and actually embedded the microprocessor controls into the valve actuators. Now any control system can be used–from everyday discrete switches to PLCs to the Elkhart UBEC controller line–allowing much more flexibility in apparatus design.
Additionally, either actuator will interface to any existing Elkhart UBEC or ICS controller in a retro-fit capacity. The E3F is utilized for valve control only. The E4F also includes flow and pressure sensor provisions.
With the new E3F and E4F actuators all functions, including: valve position, pressure, status and flow, can be broadcast and controlled across a simple 2-wire network interfaced to the existing apparatus CAN-bus, thereby eliminating wiring harnesses and third-party interface systems. Control of water, extinguishing agents, pump, power train and apparatus features can be integrated and supplied as a firefighting package rather than a collection of components hung on a chassis. The entire design maximizes apparatus configuration possibilities.
As with the original Unibody electric valve, these new actuators remain committed to reliability under the most extreme conditions. All electronic components are sealed in potting compound to eliminate potential leak paths. Plus, the electric motors and gears are rated for well in excess of 50,000 full load cycles.
The new E3F and E4F join the most configurable, most extensive, most flexible valve line currently on the market–the Unibody valve line from Elkhart Brass.
Elkhart Brass Mfg. Co., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of innovative firefighting equipment. They have been owned and operated by the same family since they were founded in 1902. Elkhart Brass manufactures firefighting nozzles, water cannons, valves, fireground appliances, foam eductors, and apparatus fittings, as well as accessories for many of these components.
More: www.elkhartbrass.com
