2 questions “Funnel the Spec” to one product type.

Start at the top, follow the path down, end on the recommendation. Designed for distributors to send a customer ahead of a quote call.

Question 1

What is the valve doing in the machine?

Direct flow · which cylinder port gets pressurized, on what signal

Question 2a

How is the valve commanded, and what is the install environment?

If PLC signal · standard area · single station

Recommend

Solenoid Valve

The default. 5/2 single for spring-return, 5/2 double for memory, 5/3 for hold-position, 3/2 for single-acting — function follows the cylinder's required power-loss behavior. SMC SY anchor; AIGNEP 01V drop-in value.

If PLC signal · standard area · 3+ valves on one machine

Recommend

Manifold / Sub-base Valve

Loose valves stop scaling past 2-3 stations. ISO 5599 / 15407 base for cross-brand interchange and a future IO-Link upgrade path. Size supply to total simultaneous flow, not per-station flow.

If Hazardous-classified area · Zone / Class / Division applies

Recommend

ATEX Solenoid Valve

Unit-certified valve and coil matched to the area's exact zone, gas group, and temperature class. Marking on the body is the legal spec. Air-piloted with a safe-area solenoid is the cheaper alternative where the area classification permits.

If Operator-actuated · no PLC · safety interlock or pedal

Recommend

Mechanical Valve

Foot pedal, palm button, hand lever, cam roller. Press safety palm-button stations are NOT a standalone valve — require a redundant pair with a safety-rated monitoring relay per the customer's safety engineer.

Replace · rebuild a leaking or sticking valve