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Parker Hannifin, a motion and control technology provider, has launched Generation IV of its DFPlus proportional valves. The valve electronics have been revised to open new possibilities for communication with the valve, as well as connectivity for demanding industrial applications. Its mechanical part, with its patented voice coil drive (VCD), serves as the basis for the performance of the valve’s previous generations and remains ‘almost unchanged,’ Parker confirmed. Within the latest iteration, a new dual-core processor enables the Generation IV valves to run at maximum performance level and to communicate with the PLC at the same time. An integrated near-field communication chip allows users to obtain all status information in the field or service situations, even when the valve is not actively powered. A 360° LED at the top of the electronics box ensures that the basic status data is immediately visible in the application through different colours or flashing frequencies. Parker’s ProPxD parameterising software has been revised along with an improved oscilloscope function, allowing adjustment to the application-specific parameters quickly and easily. The VCD, with a high-resolution integrated linear variable differential transformer, increases force drive without the need for strong active return springs. According to Parker, vibration tests with up to 60g and 10 billion endurance test cycles have demonstrated the valves’ robustness across numerous demanding applications. Frank Henschke, product manager for proportional valves at Parker’s Industrial Systems Division Europe, said: “The enhanced features of the Generation IV will make our DFplus valves market leaders, not only in terms of dynamics and flow. They now also offer the easiest way to enter Industry 4.0 without high investments and without changing the machine control strategy.”