How does a manual pinch valve work?
In the manual pinch valve, turning the handwheel transfers mechanical force via a pinch bar onto the sleeve. The sleeve is compressed from the outside across its full cross-section — the medium only comes into contact with the sleeve, not with any metal parts. When opening, the pinch bar retracts and the sleeve returns to its full nominal bore.
Depending on the nominal diameter, the mechanism operates unilaterally (one pinch bar, DN15–DN50) or bilaterally (two pinch bars, DN65–DN250). The bilateral mechanism ensures a symmetrical closing pattern and optimal sealing at larger diameters. No energy connection is required — the valve can be operated at any time.
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OV Series — Aluminium Housing, DN15 to DN250
The OV series is AKO-Armaturen's most widely used manual pinch valve for standard industrial processes. The two-part housing is made of powder-coated aluminium with a flange connection to EN 1092 PN10. The sleeve is directly connected to the pinch bar, enabling precise and reproducible operation.
Nominal diameters: DN15 to DN250Housing material: Powder-coated aluminiumFlange connection: EN 1092 PN10Mechanism: Unilateral (DN15–DN50), bilateral (DN65–DN250)Sleeves: Various elastomers, available in food-grade qualities (FDA, EC 1935)
The OV series is the first choice for applications where a compact, lightweight housing is sufficient and the operating pressure does not exceed PN10.
RV Series — Cast Iron, Higher Pressure Classes
The RV series is designed for heavier process conditions requiring higher operating pressures or a more robust housing. The housing is made of painted cast iron (GJL250) with flange connections to DIN EN 1092-1 PN10, PN16 or ANSI B16.5/150 lbs. From DN250 upwards, the handwheel features an additional gear reduction for easier operation at larger diameters.
Nominal diameters: DN25 to DN250Housing material: Painted cast iron GJL250Flange connection: DIN EN 1092-1 PN10/PN16 or ANSI B16.5/150 lbsSleeves: With or without opening lip, various elastomers, FDA/EC 1935 availablePressure classes: Up to 1, 6, 10 or 16 bar — higher pressure classes on request
The opening lip connects the sleeve directly to the mechanism, ensuring rapid and complete release of the pipe bore when opening — an advantage with viscous or tough media.
When to choose the OV or RV series?
Criterion
OV Series
RV Series
Housing material
Powder-coated aluminium
Painted cast iron (GJL250)
Nominal diameter
DN15 – DN250
DN25 – DN250
Maximum operating pressure
PN10
Up to 16 bar
Flange connection
EN 1092 PN10
DIN EN 1092-1 / ANSI B16.5
Mechanism
Unilateral / bilateral
Bilateral
Opening lip
- Not applicable
+ Optional
Gear reduction
- Not applicable
+ From DN250
Application
Standard processes up to PN10
High pressure, heavy-duty conditions
Choose the OV series for standard applications with a lightweight housing. Choose the RV series when the operating pressure exceeds PN10 or when process conditions require a more robust construction.
For which media and applications is a manual pinch valve suitable?
The manual pinch valve is suitable for the same media as all other pinch valves — the distinction lies in the actuation, not in media compatibility:
Abrasive media: sand, cement, sludge, oreFibre-rich media: pulp, fibre suspensions, wastewater with solid particlesViscous media: pastes, thick suspensions, high-viscosity productsPowders and granules: plastic pellets, chemical powders, food raw materials
Manual actuation is particularly suitable for applications where the valve is operated infrequently, where the operator is present on-site, and where a simple, low-maintenance solution is preferred. For frequent switching or automated processes, pneumatic or cylinder-operated pinch valves are better suited.
Wear parts and maintenance
The sleeve is the only wear part of the manual pinch valve. AKO-Armaturen supplies sleeves in various elastomers, matched to medium, temperature and wear load. The sleeve is easy to replace — depending on the design, this can be done without removing the complete housing from the pipeline. Ebora supplies wear parts and replacement sleeves for the OV and RV series.
Frequently asked questions
How many operating cycles can a manual pinch valve handle before the sleeve wears out?
The sleeve service life depends on the medium, operating frequency and sleeve material. AKO-Armaturen sleeves are designed for long-term use, including with abrasive media. At higher operating frequencies or with aggressive media, we recommend selecting a sleeve material tailored to your process. Contact us for advice based on your process data.
Can the manual pinch valve be converted to pneumatic or electric actuation at a later stage?
The OV series is available in manual, pneumatic and electric versions. However, retrofitting on the same housing is not standard — a different version must be selected for that purpose. View our overview of all pinch valves for a comparison of all actuation types.
Is the manual pinch valve available with a lock or position indicator?
Optional accessories such as locks and position indicators are available via the product page of the relevant pinch valve. Contact us for the options available for your specific version.
Select the correct manual pinch valve based on series, diameter and sleeve choice, or request a quote directly via the contact page .
