The Clippard NR series — also known as the NIV (Isolation Valve) — uses a flexible PTFE diaphragm to physically separate the solenoid actuator from the wetted fluid path. All surfaces contacting the media are PTFE, making the valve chemically inert across a wide range of aggressive fluids. The 3-way configuration functions as a selector or diverter, with both normally closed (NC) and normally open (NO) options available in four orifice sizes.

Why choose PTFE isolation over a conventional solenoid valve?

Conventional solenoid valves expose internal metal components (armature, spring, core tube) to the process fluid, which limits media compatibility and creates dead volume that resists flushing. The NR series eliminates both problems — the PTFE diaphragm forms a hermetic barrier, so the solenoid mechanism never touches the fluid. Zero dead volume means the valve can be completely flushed between reagent batches, critical in DNA synthesis, drug dispensing, and chemical sampling where cross-contamination is unacceptable.

How do I select the right orifice size?

Four orifice diameters map to different flow and pressure characteristics. The 0.8 mm orifice suits micro-dispensing and low-flow reagent metering. The 1.6 mm and 2.4 mm cover general laboratory fluid switching. The 3.2 mm (1/8") orifice maximizes flow for vacuum manifolds and waste-line diverting. Flow ranges from approximately 10 L/min at 0.8 mm to 60 L/min at 3.2 mm at 2 bar. All sizes support bidirectional flow and operate from vacuum to 30 psi.