Innovation

New Accumulator Safety Blocks from Parker Help Manufacturers Satisfy PED Compliance, Improve Operational Safety, Minimize System Build/Maintenance Times, Reduce Overall Costs

ROCKFORD, Ill., 10/1/2009 — An innovative range of accumulator safety blocks is now available from Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies.  

Designated the SBA Series, the accumulator safety blocks are designed for use in a wide variety of critical hydraulic applications to benefit end-users in several ways including:

• Compliance (for systems where shut-off, pressure limiting, pressure release and measurement point functions are required on accumulators)
• Fit (compact design makes them ideal for applications where space is limited)
• Productivity and Uptime (blocks help speed-up maintenance procedures/reduce system downtime)

Parker SBA Safety Blocks represent a single-unit solution for manufacturers tasked with European Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) 97/23/EC compliance. The directive states a safety device must be fitted to all accumulators to provide a shut-off facility, pressure limiting and pressure release function as well as measurement points. A CE-certified relief valve is also included on all units to satisfy PED compliance.

“In comparison with traditional safety systems, the new SBA Series makes it possible toprotect, isolate and discharge a hydraulic accumulator from a single unit” points out Bryan McGehee, Application Engineer, Parker Hannifin Corporation, Global Accumulator Division, “Each SBA Safety Block incorporates a shut-off, pressure limiting and pressure release feature in a compact and robust housing rated for working pressures up to 350 bar. As leaks are also a safety concern in any hydraulic system, the integrated manifold approach of our product provides added value through the elimination of plumbing and leak points.”

Modular in design, the new SBA Safety Blocks feature a tamper-proof pressure relief valve that can be specified in a wide range of pressure settings. The valve can be easily changed without having to disconnect or remove the block. In addition, the integrated shut-off valve allows an attached accumulator to be isolated and then safely discharged to a tank. This can be done directly using a threaded, manually operated discharge valve, which is standard on all safety block models. As an option, the accumulator can also be discharged automatically via integrated two-way solenoid-operated cartridge valve. For diagnostic purposes and continuous pressure monitoring, all SBA Safety Blocks have two maintenance ports.

New SBA Safety Blocks are suitable for use with all types of accumulators – bladder, piston and diaphragm. Their compact, multi-function design saves space and reduces connections. A full range of adapters is available to suit all common port sizes and styles including SAE and BSPP straight port. Three different sizes – NG10, NG20 and NG32 – are available in a durable corrosion resistant finish to suit most applications.

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