Similarly, an operator working with a manifold can redirect fluid flow into the output of their choosing, thanks to the integrated valves or electronic network interface attached to the manifold. This ability to redirect electricity is available due to the switchboard providing switches. An electrical circuit works by the operator having complete control of redirecting the signal into the output of their choosing. If a comparison of how it works were to be made it would be to that of a switchboard in an electrical circuit. No matter the type or construction style of the manifold they all work in the same way. The other, a modular block design, is a construction of multiple blocks designed to be used as an individual unit or assembled into a modular combination to make up a complete system. In a single-piece design all necessary valving and passages for the entire system are supported on that one device. Both a hydraulic and pneumatic manifold can be constructed as two forms of manifolds. Both provide a distribution point for compressed air, gases, and fluids to redirect pneumatic or hydraulic power to equipment throughout a facility. The two most common types of manifolds that will be used in industrial automation are hydraulic and pneumatic manifolds. The selection of what type of material a manifold should be made of will come down to the type of chemical or fluid flowing throughout the system it will be used in. For example, a manifold made from aluminum might have a stronger resistance to a specific oil, then say a manifold made from plastic. Although each provide corrosion and wear resistance to some extent, their corrosion and wear resistant ability will perform differently depending upon the chemical or fluid flowing throughout the system. A common feature throughout all these materials is they must be able to provide corrosion and wear resistance. The most common types of materials that make up a manifold are aluminum, ductile iron, plastic, steel, and stainless steel. Depending upon the type of material that makes up a manifold, fluid compatibility and performance will be affected. Measurement is tracked by pressure gauges, switches, and other devices attached to the manifold.Īlong with their make up of many components, manifolds can be made out of a variety of materials. The flow of the fluids through the ports of the manifold is controlled by having one or more valves attached. Tees, elbows, crosses, plugs, and other parts are used to fit the pipe and tube to the manifold. A hollow container in the form of a pipe or tube is used to move fluid. Manifolds are made up of several key components. More complex systems can incorporate integral valves or an electronic network interface. They are typically used to divide one supply input to multiple outputs. Manifold systems can range from simple supply chambers with several outlets, to multi-chambered flow control units. Incorporating a manifold into a fluid power application in hydraulics or pneumatics can provide an easier and more efficient performance.Ī manifold is a fluid or gas distribution system or device that serves to bring many valves into one place or a single channel into an area where many points meet. Combining gases or fluids, controlling multiple valves, operating pneumatic and hydraulic systems can all demand that multiple functions be performed simultaneously. In the industrial industry there are many instances where two or more requirements must be fulfilled at the same time.

Water manifold