Don’t Overlook Apparatus Valves

Apparatus valves are easily overlooked, but their importance becomes clear when one fails. Manual valves are tucked away behind panels, while electric valves have a reputation for unreliability based on outdated technology. However, valve technology has advanced significantly, and understanding the specifics of the valves in your apparatus can contribute to safer, more efficient operations.

How-to videos, FAQ, product overview videos

Manual Valves

Unibody Apparatus Valves

Manual valves consist of a valve body, two end caps, and an actuator.

  • Valve Portion: Made up of a cast valve body, stainless steel ball, and two seals.

  • End Caps: Manual valves are equipped with two end caps; an inlet and outlet side. Matching the valve body, the ends caps use a 4-bolt pattern to attach. End caps are designed based on termination, drain taps, and pressure taps.

  • Actuators: Based on valve location and pump panel controls, the actuator attaches to the top of the valve body in a 4-bolt pattern.

  • Direct Handle / Twist Lock: The Direct handle actuator is typically used for driver-side discharges and auxiliary suctions when the valve is located close to a panel. It requires a large oval cutout in the pump panel for operation and is also available in a locking version to prevent valve drift. Traditionally, this type of actuator is known as a “swing handle”.

  • Remote Handle: The remote handle is the most popular option for manual valves. It features a push/pull handle located on the pump panel, connected to the valve through linkage.

  • Rack & Sector: The Rack & Sector actuator is used on manual valves to provide mechanical advantage, making it easier to operate valves under pressure. This type of actuator is often used on officer-side LDH discharges.

  • Gear: Gear drives are controlled through a handwheel crank on the pump panel which provides the best mechanical advantage for valve operation.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron 8820 Swing Out Valve

Electric Valves

Elkhart E14X

The E14X electric valve actuator interfaces with the valve to open, close, and throttle. The fully sealed design can handle continuous duty cycles and high torque requirements.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron Navigator / Navigator Pro

Apex-S™

Typically used for “Tank to Pump” or “Tank Refill”, the APEX-S is a compact valve controller with no digital display.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron Mini Navigator Pro 9327

Apex-100™

Same functionality as the APEX-S, however, features like an LCD display and custom colors / verbiage take it a step further.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron Navigator Pro 9333

Apex-200™

Resembling the APEX-100, the APEX-200 features a pressure sensor shown on the digital display. The pressure reading can be configurable for 0-600psi or 0-400psi.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron Navigator Pro 9335

Apex-300™

The most advanced digital valve controller, the APEX-300 functions as the APEX-100 with added features like a pressure and flow sensor. This setup provides ultimate control showing valve position, pressure reading, and GPM flow.

Competitor Comparisons:
Akron Navigator Pro 9335

Industry Best Warranty

The APEX controller, E14X Actuator, and Unibody Valve are all backed by an industry exclusive 10-year warranty. The 10-year warranty covers the valve, motor, and electronics. Nobody else covers the entire system like Elkhart Brass.

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