Time delay valve and sequence control systems

Module Objectives:

After the completion of this module, the student will be able to:
Demonstrate an understanding of the pneumatic time element.
Demonstrate an understanding of the different types of time delay valves.
Identify the symbol, and design of normally closed time delay valve.
Explain the function and principle of operation of normally closed time delay valve.
Identify the main parts of the time delay valve.
Draw a pneumatic circuit diagram that consists of a time delay valve, normally closed.
Simulate pneumatic circuit that consists of a time delay valve using Fluid SIM software.
Build a pneumatic circuit that consists of a time delay valve as per specific requirements.
Explain the main types of displacement diagrams.
Draw a displacement step diagram for a given sequence of operation.
Draw a circuit diagram from a given sequence of operation.

1. Time Delay Valve

Pneumatic time elements can be formed very simply from combinations of three valves:
directional control valve, one-way flow control valve and reservoirs.

1.1 Function
Time delay valve is used to delay the output signal. The time delay valve is actuated by a
pneumatic signal through the tank after a preset time delay has elapsed. The returned to the
normal position via return spring when the signal is terminated. Fig. (1) shows the picture of the
time delay valve, normally closed.

Figure 1 Time delay valve

1.2 Symbols

Fig. (1.2.a) shows the ISO symbol of normally closed time delay valve.
Fig. (1.2.b) shows the ISO symbol of normally opened time delay valve.
 Figure 1.2(a) ISO symbol of N/C time delay valve (fluidSIM)

Figure 1.2(b) ISO symbol of N/O time delay valve(fluidSIM)

2. Design

The time delay valve is a combination of a 3/2 way valve, one way flow control valve and air
reservoir. The 3/2 way valve can be normally open or normally closed. The delay time is generally
ranging between (0-300) seconds for both types of valves (normally opened and normally closed).
By using additional reservoirs, the delaying time can be extended. Fig. (1.3) shows the parts of
the time delay valve, normally closed. The type of the time delay valve whether normally opened
or normally closed is determined according to the type of the 3/2 way valve if it is N/O or N/C.
Fig. (1.4) shows the two types of 3/2 way valve. (N/C) and (N/O).
Fig. (1.3) parts of the time delay valve

Fig. 1.4.a 3/2 way valve (N/C)

Fig. 1.4.a 3/2 way valve (N/O)

Fig. 1.4: 3/2 way valve

3. Principle of operation

The following operational principle applies for a time delay valve in normally closed position as
shown in Fig. (1.5.a). The compressed air is supplied to the valve at connection 1. The control air
flows into the valve at 12 through a one-way flow control valve and depending on the setting of
the throttling screw, a greater or lesser amount of air flows per unit of time into the air reservoir,
when the necessary control pressure has built up in the air reservoir, the pilot control of the 3/2
way valve is moved downwards. This blocks the passage from 2 to 3. The valve disc is lifted from
its seat and thus air can flow from1 to 2 as shown in Fig. (1.5.b). The time required for pressure
to build up in the air reservoir is equal to the control time of the valve.

(a) Un-actuated position

 (b) Actuated position

Fig. 1.5: Time delay valve principle of operation

4. Practical Task 1: Pressing device with time control

4.1 Learning objectives:

Upon the completion of this task, the student will be
• Familiar with the set-up and mode of operation of a time delay valve normally closed.
• Able to recognize and sketch the time delay valve.
• Able to choose different pneumatic components according to the given conditions.

4.2 Problem Description:

A double acting cylinder is used to press glued components together. Upon operation of a push
button, the clamping cylinder extends as shown in Fig. 7.6 below. Once the fully advanced
position is reached, the cylinder is to remain for a time of T = 6 seconds and then retract to the
initial position automatically. The cylinder retraction is to be adjustable. A new start cycle is only
possible after the cylinder has fully retracted.
Fig. 1.6 Postional sketch

4.3 Requirements:
1 Draw pneumatic circuit diagram using the space provided below.
2 Simulate the circuit using FluidSIM software.
3 Assemble the circuit practically and check its operation.
4 Write down your observation below.

5 Introduction to sequence control system

A control system with compulsory stepped operation where switching from one step to the next
in the program is dependent upon certain conditions being satisfied. In particular, the
programming of jumps, loops, branching, etc. is possible.

6 Sequence control is divided into two subgroups:

Time-dependent sequence control system

A sequence control where the switching conditions are dependent only on time. Step enabling
conditions are generated via timers, or cam-shaft controllers with constant speed.

Process dependent
A sequence control system where the switching conditions are dependent only on signals from
the system being controlled. Step diagram control is a form of process-dependent sequence
control; the step enabling conditions depend purely on the stroke-dependent signals of the
controlled system.

7 Control of multiple actuators

In the case of multiple cylinder circuits, a clear definition of the problem is important. The
representation of the desired motion of all actuators is described using the displacement-step
diagram. The special conditions for the start of the sequence must also be defined. If the motion
diagram and auxiliary conditions have been clearly defined, drawing of the circuit diagram can
commence. The circuit diagram should be designed according to the guidelines, in order for a
circuit to operate, it is essential to avoid overlapping signals. By an overlapping signal, we
understand signals applied simultaneously at the two control ports of a double pilot valve. The
following valves can be used to eliminate signal overlap: roller lever valves with idle return or
toggle lever valves, time delay valves, reversing valves or sequencers.

8 Displacement-step diagram
The displacement step diagram and the displacement-time diagram represents the operating
sequence of the actuators, the displacement is recorded in relation to the sequence step. If a
control system incorporates a number of actuators, they are shown in the same way and are
drawn one below the other. Their interrelation can be seen by comparing the steps as shown in
(Fig.1.7b). There are two cylinders 1A and 2A. In step 1 cylinder 1A extends and then cylinder 2A
extends in step 2. In step 3 cylinder 1A retracts and in step 4 cylinder 2A retracts. Step number 5
is equivalent to step 1. In the case of a displacement-time diagram, the displacement is plotted
in relation to the time as shown in (Fig.1.7c)

(a) Positional sketch

 (b) Displacement step diagram

(c)Displacement time Diagram

Fig. 1.7: Displacement step and time program

Example (1)
Find the sequence of operation for the given displacement step diagram

Solution:
A+A-B+B-C+C

Example (2)
Draw the displacement step diagram for the following sequence of
operation A+B+B-A-C+C

Solution: