Abrasive Metering Valves & Remote Controls
Control Abrasive Flow at the Source
An abrasive metering valve regulates how much media enters the compressed air stream. Stable, precise flow helps maintain the surface finish, limit media waste, protect the blast hose and nozzle, and support predictable production. Too little abrasive reduces cutting action. Too much abrasive can slow the stream, increase consumption, accelerate wear, and make the finish harder to control.
The correct valve depends on media type and size, blast machine configuration, pressure hold or pressure release operation, remote control design, clearance, production duty, and whether the operator must adjust flow while the system is active.
Pneumatic and Manual Metering
Pneumatic valves respond to the remote control system and are suited to applications where abrasive flow must start and stop with the blast cycle. The PQV Pro supports common media, pressure hold and pressure release configurations, and adjustment during operation. Its service design reduces wear component count and supports practical maintenance in the field.
Manual valves are appropriate when the abrasive setting can remain fixed for long blasting intervals. The MQV Pro provides precise manual adjustment for common media on compatible machines. Other Clemco valves address fine media, lightweight media, small machines, low clearance installations, and established legacy equipment.
Pressure Hold Versus Pressure Release
A pressure hold system keeps the pressure vessel pressurized when the operator stops blasting. This can reduce restart delay and support production processes, but it requires compatible valves and controls. A pressure release system depressurizes the vessel when the remote control is released, which supports common contractor operation and refilling practices.
Valve selection must match the complete control circuit. Mixing incompatible components can create poor operation or a safety hazard. Use the current manual and confirm the configuration with an authorized distributor.
Pneumatic
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Ideal for Complex Blasting Setups: Designed for pressure-release and pressure-hold systems, especially where multiple hose lengths or elevated work (like scaffolding) are involved.
Abrasive Cutoff Capability: Allows operators to stop media flow during blasting, preventing hose slugging and enabling quick clearing between uses.
PQV-Pro Valve: Versatile for both pressure-hold and pressure-release systems; supports all common media, offers adjustable flow during operation, and features simplified maintenance with 60% fewer wear parts.
Auto Quantum Valve (AQV): Compatible with all common media; used in pressure-release systems with 3-cuft and larger machines.
Sentinel Valve: Tailored for fine-mesh media, often used in pressure-release blast cabinets for precision applications.
Manual
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Designed for Long-Duration, Ground-Level Blasting: Ideal when blasting for extended periods with short blast hose runs on the ground.
MQV-Pro (Manual Quantum Valve): Compatible with all common media; fits 2-cuft and larger blast machines.
FSV & MSV (Flat and Manual Sand Valves): FSV is for larger machines using expendable mineral or slag media; MSV fits ½- and 1-cuft machines with similar media.
LPV (Lo-Pot Valve): Specially designed for 6-cuft Lo-Pot machines, its compact form fits the low-clearance configuration.
LMV (Lightweight Media Valve): Optimized for soft abrasives like soda, glass bead, and agricultural media in Soft King and Pool Pal machines.
Remote Controls
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Operator-Controlled Blasting: Allows operators to start and stop blasting with fingertip controls near the nozzle for enhanced convenience and safety.
Fail-to-Safe Design: Automatically halts blasting if the operator drops or loses grip on the control handle, prioritizing jobsite safety.
OSHA-Compliant: Meets regulatory requirements that mandate remote control operation for all abrasive blasting machines.
Pneumatic Option: Ideal for setups with up to 100 ft of blast hose; reliable for standard temperature environments.
Electric Option: Designed for longer hose runs (over 100 ft) or cold-weather conditions, functioning effectively up to 500 ft with appropriate control cord.
Service, Adjustment, and Retrofit
Abrasive valves should be inspected for wear, leakage, damaged seals, restricted passages, actuator condition, and control line problems. Service intervals depend on media, pressure, usage, and operating environment. Adjustments should follow the current manual and should be verified by observing the blast stream and surface result.
When retrofitting an existing machine, confirm vessel size, outlet connection, control type, available clearance, pressure rating, media, and required accessories. Clemco can help identify the compatible valve and remote control arrangement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does an abrasive metering valve do?
It controls the amount of abrasive entering the compressed air stream so the system can produce an effective and consistent blast pattern without excessive media use.
Can abrasive flow be adjusted while blasting?
Certain pneumatic valves, including the PQV Pro in compatible configurations, allow adjustment during operation. Follow the current instructions and safety procedures.
Why does abrasive flow surge or stop?
Possible causes include moisture, contaminated media, an incorrect valve setting, worn components, blocked passages, control problems, or an incompatible media and valve combination.
Proven Performance. Rugged Reliability.
Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941
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Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941 • Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941 • Generations of Excellence Transforming Our World, Worldwide since 1941 •
