Parker introduces DFplus Gen IV proportional valves

The valve electronics have been fundamentally revised, opening up new possibilities for communication with the valve as well as connectivity for demanding industrial applications. The mechanical part with its patented voice coil drive (VCD), the basis for the established performance of the previous generations of DFplus valves, remains almost unchanged.

A new dual core processor, in the Generation IV valves, enables them to run at maximum performance level and to communicate with the PLC at the same time. The retention of the analogue command signal in combination with the use of the valve's IO-Link connection for communication is unique.

“The enhanced features of the Generation IV will make our DFplus valves market leaders not only in terms of dynamics and flow. They now also offer the easiest way to enter Industry 4.0 without high investments and without changing the machine control strategy,” says Frank Henschke, Product Manager Proportional Valves at Parker’s Industrial Systems Division Europe.

There are more innovations that provide added value. One of these new features is an integrated near-field communication (NFC) chip that allows users to obtain all status information in the field or in service situations – even when the valve is not actively powered. A 360° LED at the top of the electronics box ensures that the basic status data is immediately visible in the application by different colours or flashing frequencies. Parker’s ProPxD parameterising software has been fundamentally revised along with an improved oscilloscope function, permitting adjustment to the application-specific parameters quickly and easily.

The new electronics are perfectly complemented by the mechanical characteristics of the DFplus valves. The unique VCD with its highest resolution integrated linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) provides elevated force drive without the need of strong active return springs, resulting in real servo valve performance. Together with the high robustness, which has been proven by vibration tests with up to 60 g and 10 billion endurance test cycles, the valves have already demonstrated their suitability for numerous demanding applications.

With the innovations of DFplus Generation IV, Parker is ideally positioned for working with engineers facing the challenges of the future in industrial hydraulics, in particular the increasing digitalisation of processes. The valves are also suitable as a 1:1 replacement for DFplus Generation III valves in existing applications.