Ramping up valve production for ventilators to support pandemic relief effort

24th August 2020 By: Creamer Media Reporter

Parker Hannifin, the global leader in motion and control technologies, is accelerating production in response to increased demand for solenoid and proportional valves used in ventilation equipment needed to treat patients with COVID-19. With 20+ years of experience serving the medical device industry, the Precision Fluidics Division is well positioned to respond to customer needs with technical expertise and lean operations to ensure product quality and reliability.

Parker's miniature solenoid valves are known for high-speed operation and extremely low leakage rates, while its proportional valve technology meets the most demanding precision flow applications. Specifically, the valves used in ventilator systems include the VSO Max HP, VSO, VSO Low Pro, x-Valve, and S-11.

One leading global OEM in ventilator instruments stated: "We are very moved by Parker Hannifin’s support on the prevention of the coronavirus. Our company relies on socially responsible suppliers, and we expect Parker Hannifin will continue to support us on production and jointly contribute to help save lives.”

"We are employing many preventative measures across our operations to protect the safety of our team members, their families and our community, while addressing the critical demand of our customers,” said Craig Stiffler, General Manager of Parker Hannifin’s Precision Fluidics Division.

Employees are stepping up to increase production output. They are adopting rotating schedules, moving to alternate shifts, helping to train new hires and, in some cases, moving from the office to manufacturing cells.

The agility of the team is a key factor in their ability to quickly adjust to rising demands in this time of crisis. In January, the division increased capacity across nine primary product families by as much as 500%. Current estimates are that this increased demand could continue for the foreseeable future.

"Our entire team has responded with the courage, resilience and determination that we are known for at Parker," continued Stiffler. "I would like to extend my thanks to each of them for adhering to our enhanced hygiene and social distancing practices to ensure we can continue to supply our valves to help treat sick patients. I could not be prouder of the work our team is doing to respond to this crisis."

 

Motion Control