Manifolds have an important job in the compressed gas industry, acting as the central point of gas distribution in applications where gases may need to be combined, a system may need to control multiple valves, or any system that demands multiple functions to be handled at once time. Manifolds allow users to feed multiple gas cylinders or high-pressure gas sources into one area and then control and smoothly deliver gas to serve the end application. Key benefits of manifolds include:
Centralized Control
The biggest benefit of a manifold is the ability to bring multiple valves into one control point to ensure the controlled flow of compressed gases.
Increased Distribution Efficiency
Because of the manifold’s central control design, gas distribution is much more efficient, especially when the application has multiple distribution points in a facility or larger system. The streamlined design also improves energy efficiency when moving gases around particularly large systems.
Better Safety and Automation
Automated manifold designs eliminate the need for manual adjustments and switchovers, which increases safety by reducing the potential for human error and injury through repetitive use (like carpal tunnel). Wear and tear on joints is also decreased, improving reliability and performance.
There are a variety of manifold designs to suit the needs of the application, with manual and automatic control options depending on the need for automation. More complex manifolds can incorporate a variety of valves and electronic interfaces to control threshold alarms, for example.
Common manifold components include:
- Central hollow pipe for moving gas
- Valves for controlling gas flow
- Piping and fittings
- Regulators for controlling pressure
- Pressure gauges
- Flexible connectors
Manifolds span a wide range of applications:
- Medical Gas: Oxygen, nitrous oxide, and medical air distribution in hospitals, healthcare facilities, fire departments and veterinarian offices, among others.
- Industrial: Compressed gases for fill plants, welding, laser cutting, chemical processing, and manufacturing.
- Specialty Uses: Laboratories commonly use a range of specialty gases with multiple endpoints while ensuring proper pressure control and preventing accidental mixing of gases in highly-sensitive experiments and processes.
Ratermann has a complete selection of manifolds to meet your industry or application needs. Contact us below to learn more or get help selecting the right system.