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NEWS

SIL3 Certification for the EHPC210 Diagnostic Controller (June 2018)

Bifold is pleased to announce that the Partial Stroke Function of the EHPC210 Diagnostic Controller is now SIL3 Certified according to IEC 61508 : 2010 Parts 1-7 and meets requirements providing a level of integrity to: Systematic Integrity: SIL3 Capable.

In obtaining the SIL3 certification, Bifold Orange partnered with Exida, a global supplier of functional safety products, services and certifications, which has performed more process control safety certifications than any other company worldwide. Exida certified the product reliability, design and engineering processes for the Bifold Orange EHPC210 Universal Controller as SIL3 capable per International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 61508.

The EHPC210 is a smart controller solution operating a single solenoid for partial stroke testing in pneumatic and hydraulic valve actuation. It is designed to meet the basic legislation requirements to perform a partial stroke test and to record the results.

The controller can interface with a valve switch box or has the added benefit of integral position feedback. The EHPC210 can be retrofitted onto existing systems to allow partial stroke testing to be performed.

The controller incorporates graphic display integrated rotary feedback measurement, low power modes, ESD monitoring and control. The enclosure assembly allows installation in zone 1 or zone 2 hazardous areas.

The controller features HART and Modbus communication as well as fully configurable control logic allowing hard wired interface to a local control panel or the clients control system.

The controller records the time, valve position and pressure at the actuator (separate pressure transmitter required). It uses this data to provide a graph for local visual indication, actual safety factor calculation and alarm status.

Using the controller in association with Bifold zero bleed (in steady state position) solenoid technology can improve valve control, system power efficiency and reliability.


More Information
Gill Bancroft, Tel. +44 (0) 161 345 4777 Email: gbancroft@bifold.co.uk

Additional Information for Editors

The Bifold Group of Companies are supported worldwide with a global network of agents and distributors. Bifold is a world class supplier of the widest range of switching instrument valves and pumps in the oil and gas upstream and downstream sector. Our innovative and reliable range of high-tech valve products and accessories specifically designed with the customer in mind, have gained worldwide approval and credibility for the onerous conditions as found in hazardous (classified) locations, hostile, corrosive and subsea environments.


Bifold’s Circuit Designer – Modular solutions with drag and drop system (April 2018)

The Bifold Circuit Designer allows you to design a bespoke modular solution or tubed valve circuit comprising a series of valves in any order or orientation (where applicable) using a schematic drag and drop system. The completed system can then be bought as a modular solution or as a list of separate valves from Bifold.

•     Design a circuit using drag and drop (new schematics added regularly).
•     Organise and manage your projects in the Project Centre.
•     View the modular solution code and description or a list of separate valves and fittings.
•     Create a PDF schematic diagram and description for sending with a quote.
•     View and print the Modular Solution Bill of Materials (BOM) or separate valves (BOM).
•     For users with Solid Edge ST6 and above, create a 3D model and dimensional drawing for a Modular Solution.
•     3,500 + systems already configured.
•     New users configuring systems every week.

Installation
Download and run setup.exe from: -
https://www.bifold.co.uk/BifoldCircuitDesigner.aspx

More Information
Gill Bancroft, Tel. +44 (0) 161 345 4777 Email: gbancroft@bifold.co.uk

Additional Information for Editors

The Bifold Group of Companies are supported worldwide with a global network of agents and distributors. Bifold is a world class supplier of the widest range of switching instrument valves and pumps in the oil and gas upstream and downstream sector. Our innovative and reliable range of high-tech valve products and accessories specifically designed with the customer in mind, have gained worldwide approval and credibility for the onerous conditions as found in hazardous (classified) locations, hostile, corrosive and subsea environments.


Bifold Pneumatic Actuator Controls (February 2017)
The Best Technology at the Lowest Cost – At Least 22% to 39% Cost Saving

Bifold offer configurable valve control products, simplified for ease of selection with the highest safety factors and reduced spares requirements, offering the highest flow at the lowest cost.

Maximise flow of typical tubed systems with Bifold components

With traditional tubed pneumatic control circuits Bifold elements are capable of the highest possible flow in the market but the output is limited by the change in the bore size through the tubes and fittings.

Maximise flow of typical nippled systems with Bifold components

 With traditional nippled pneumatic control circuits Bifold elements are capable of the highest possible flow in the market but the output is restricted by the diameter of the nipples.

Optimise flow with Bifold patented modular solution

Bifold developed an unrestricted common bore system that optimises the high flow capability of their components.

Bifold have furthered this logic and developed a range of patented Filter Boosters removing as many elements as possible from the flow line including the filter and regulator, amplifying the possible flow for any given tube size. This principle results in smaller tube sizes being used and can be supplied in up to a 2” connection.

If you are interested in the lowest cost solution for your application, please visit www.bifold.co.uk for further details and a video outlining the above. You can also contact Bifold on +44 (0) 161 345 4777.

Bifold are dedicated to maintaining the excellence of their products and their new facility confirms their commitment to shortening lead times and meeting customer demands.

Bifold Group would like to take this opportunity to thank all their customers for their continued support.

download pdf brochure

High Flow Model VBP Series Volume Booster Delivers System Stability (February 2017)

Bifold announces the introduction of the model VBP series high flow Volume Booster for pneumatic and gas service. This unique patented product, manufactured from 316L stainless steel, performs efficiently with a high flow in both open and close rotation of the actuator. Competitor’s booster valves have a high output flow, but a low exhaust flow. In applications where a fast response time on modulating service, in combination with a fast shutdown time (ESD), is required, the VBP also eliminates the need for an additional poppet or Quick Exhaust Valve to achieve the required closing speeds. This results in reduced material and labour costs and simplifies positioned set up and control.

When used with a valve positioner/valve actuator, the VBP is designed to produce fast opening and closing times. This range is also available as a combined filter booster.

The range functions with a working pressure range of 2 to 10 bar g, with maximum inlet pressure of 20 bar g and operates at a working temperature of -20ºC to +180ºC. The design offers a choice of two sizes with port threads of 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/4”, 1” and 2” NPT which allow installation flexibility for easy hookup.

The extremely compact modular design eliminates the need for additional quick exhaust valves enabling reduced costs and installation time.

Improved system design offers a simple tubed system with ONE Bifold Filter Regulator and ONE Volume Booster. The advantages = faster response times and simple to install resulting in the lowest cost solution. Conventional systems require multiple Filter Regulators and multiple Volume Boosters, the disadvantages = slower response times and requiring balancing of the Filter Regulators.

A soft seat sealing design provides tight shut off to reduce costly air consumption. A bypass needle adjustment fitted as standard across the range eliminates system hunting and providing stability. Manufactured from 316L stainless steel as standard.

Applications include activation of control valves used in chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, pharmaceutical and food processing markets. This range has been designed and tested at Bifold and supplied for use with the majority of positioner/valve actuator manufacturers.

For innovative and reliable valve solutions, visit our website www.bifold.co.uk where more detailed information and a PDF brochure can be down loaded.


Valve World Expo Dusseldorf 2016 (November 2016)

The volume of visitors to the show far outstripped the numbers of 2014, a record 12,350 visitors, proved to be the biggest Valve World Expo in Dusseldorf so far, which is a really encouraging sign and our stand was busy throughout the duration of the exhibition.

The significant increase in business over the last few years has meant that Bifold has implemented new plans for more efficient and fast despatch whilst still retaining excellence of quality and service. This is the 48hr despatch plan.

We launched a range of new products including the PICØ- Pneumatic Intelligent Control Zero Bleed.

This is a revolutionary control system which will transform Pneumatic actuation, both in positional control but also on/off and ESD valves.

Zero Bleed, High Speed, High Accuracy, Arctic Service option, Low Power, High Capability, High Level of Flexibility, Low Consumption


Bifold Releases Solenoid Operated BXS Pneumatic Valves (October 2015)

Bifold has built on the experience and skills of its workforce to continually broaden its product range. In addition to the high quality valves and pumps, Bifold are proud to announce the launch of their solenoid operated BXS Pneumatic valve range.

Bifold’s BXS valve range offers a compact and flexible solution to low pressure applications. With over 35 common interface modular operators, this versatile range covers a wide spectrum of actuation requirements. Specifically, the solenoid operated types are compact, two-stage valves. The robust design is manufactured from 316L stainless steel as standard with anodised aluminium options also available. The valves are suited for offshore and other corrosive atmospheres.

With a valve operating temperature range of -55°C to + 130°C and worldwide solenoid operator approvals Ex emb, Ex d & Ex ia for ambient temperatures up to 90°C, the solenoid operated product range is available with the widest range of override options. These include: auto reset, spring return manual override, stayput manual override, manual reset, tamperproof manual latch and latch energised. Low power options are also available, rated at only 1.8W. Product design FMEAs, extensive qualification testing, computerised diagnostic factory acceptance testing and test procedures to confirm operational safety factors of all production valves, combine to support the certification of the BXS series valves as SIL 3 capable. A NAMUR interface is available on 5/2 port configuration valves. These types are supplied with multi-functional adaptor plates to permit valve orientation through 90° or conversion to a 3/2 configuration.

Alongside the development of the BXS series valves, Bifold has designed the IPV (Integrated Pilot Valve). This is a cartridge valve that fits within the solenoid operator adaptor, permitting the solenoid operator to be connected directly to the BXS series valve body. This will be a more compact, simpler to maintain and more cost effective solution for the end user.


Ambitious valve manufacturer Bifold continues to grow developing 48hr Despatch for efficient and quick delivery (May 2015)

Bifold’s 48hr Despatch

Bifold has recently moved to larger premises in Chadderton (see below for full address) and so have been able to develop many different initiatives due to their expansion within the factory and growing workforce. The initiative that has the biggest impact for customers is that Bifold now has the capability to deliver products, configured and built to order within 48 hours.

The significant increase in business over the last few years has meant that Bifold has implemented new plans for more efficient and fast despatch whilst still retaining excellence of quality and service. Bifold’s modular approach to product design and extremely efficient build and test processes have afforded increasing levels of flexibility as to the number of valve types that can be assembled and tested with very short lead times. This negates the need for ‘off the shelf’ finished valve products to meet customer’s urgent requirements. This form of productivity enhancement emphasises the significant increase in demand that has been placed on Bifold for their outstanding products.

The products that are available for 48hr despatch are available to view on the website (details of which can be found below). However, along with the preferred range that is advertised, Bifold is also able to accommodate reasonable requests for alternative, configurable valve options that the customer may require and are more than willing to cater to individual customer requests. Whilst this 48hr service is applicable to single valves and small batch quantities, Bifold are also able to, within reason, accommodate specific demands for large quantities.

With 48hr despatch the customer receives the same quality and efficiency as they would usually experience and it does not require any special process within the ordering of the products. The customer must simply specify that they require the parts to be ready for despatch within 48 hrs and so provides minimum hassle process.

If you are interested in Bifold’s 48hr despatch please see the website for further details and terms and conditions. You can also contact Bifold using the information below.

Bifold are dedicated to maintaining the excellence of their products and their new facility confirms their commitment to shortening lead times and meeting customer demands.

They would like to take the opportunity to thank all their customers for their continued support.


Valve World Expo Dusseldorf 2014 (November 2014)

Bifold Group returned to The Valve World exhibition in Dusseldorf, to introduce further additions to our already well established product range.

This included our new innovative range of Electro-Hydraulic Power Packs and our Bifold Orange control systems. Also included at the show was our revolutionary, interactive 3D configuration software and App which allowed visitors to view our product to scale in a new, interactive and innovative way using augmented reality.

It was a pleasure to see new and old faces. Our stand was extremely busy throughout the duration of the exhibition and proved to be our most successful show by far.


Bifold Group Announces the Acquisition of Orange Instruments (August 2014)

Bifold was founded in 1865 originally manufacturing miner’s lamps for the coal industry. Over the years, Bifold has diversified to become the leading manufacturer of switching instrument valves and accessories, piping valves and pumps for the oil and gas sector. Bifold is now one of the UK’s fastest growing manufacturers having grown 50% per year since 2002.

Bifold Group announces the recent acquisition of the instruments part of Orange Instruments as a new subsidiary. The Orange expertise in process control systems will greatly contribute toward expanding the Bifold product offering.

The new acquisition of Orange Instruments will further enhance Bifold’s capabilities to penetrate existing and new markets and will improve business growth to our existing customers.

Orange Instruments shares an equally as successful history as Bifold Group. It was established in 1975 designing and manufacturing industrial control and monitoring electronics. During this period Orange Instruments developed an expertise in process control systems, designed for a wide range of industries. During the 1990’s Orange Instruments expanded into the instrument valve and pump control sector building hazardous area systems for the worldwide oil and gas industry.

Bifold Group, are dedicated to maintaining the excellence of their products and would like to take the opportunity to thank all their customers for their continued support.


Ambitious valve manufacturer Bifold continues to grow and has acquired new premises to accommodate an increase in business (May 2014)

A Bright Future for Bifold

Bifold, on Greenside Way, Middleton have moved to larger premises on Broadgate, Oldham Broadway Business Park (details of full address given below), which means they will be better placed to expand the business in the longer term.

The significant increase in business over the last few years has meant that Bifold has implemented plans for future recruitment, indicating the fluent growth of the business. The new premises has meant that we have been able to achieve significant productivity enhancements with the emphasis very much on this gives the capability to configure engineered to order products over the mobile network and can be delivered within 24 hours.

Bifold is the leading manufacturer of instrument valves and pumps for the oil and gas sector and its profits have grown 50% per year since 2002.

Bifold are dedicated to maintaining the excellence of their products and their new facility confirms their commitment to shortening lead times and meeting customer demands.

They would like to take the opportunity to thank all their customers for their continued support.


Bifold have linked Safety with Performance to provide Medium Pressure Instrumentation Valves and Fittings (August 2013)
 

The Bifold Group broadens its valve line with a range of medium pressure ball and needle valves, delivering safe, reliable operation to 20,000 psi / 1379 bar.

Both valve types are available in ¼”, 3/8”, 9/16”, ¾” and 1” tubing sizes, comprising of a coned and threaded connection. The connection method allows for increased flow rates due to the larger bore sizes, common within this range. The valves are constructed from high tensile 316L CW stainless steel (Exotic materials available).

The range comprises of needle valves, ball valves, manifold valves, check valves, fittings and adaptors. The valves are designed with unique features alongside many standard features which makes the product far superior to conventional products on the market.

Our medium pressure ball valve range is available as a floating or trunnion style and incorporates an innovative locking device. This design allows the valve to maintain it’s through panel mount function and is pressure tested in accordance with API 598 & BS EN 12266-1, also proof tested to 1.5 times maximum working pressure. These valves are offered in a wide range of configurations, with an operating temperature range of -46ºC to +225ºC (-20ºC to +180ºC) as standard.

Our medium pressure needle valve range is designed with a unique maintenance free stem sealing system. This eliminates the loss of integrity often experienced over time with traditional packing glands. There is also a secondary metal to metal seal system which reduces potential leak paths. Further product advantages include the unique stem treatment to prevent galling, non wetted threads, fail safe open and closed system and many more features and benefits. These valves are offered in a wide range of configurations, with an operating temperature of -73°C to +315°C (-20°C to +170°C) as standard.

Here at Bifold, we are constantly carrying out vigorous research and development on all our products, ensuring that our valves represent the best of what we do.


Bifold have linked Safety with Performance to provide Directional Control Valves and Valve assemblies for Subsea applications (May 2013)
 

Bifold have been successfully designing and manufacturing valves for operation directly immersed in sea water since 1987 and have applied this experience to develop our extensive range of technically superior subsea valves, maintaining safety factors and reliable operation across the pressure range to over 15,000 psi / 1035 bar with an operating temperature range of -50°C to +140°C.

Designed to operate reliably on fluids with contamination levels greater than NAS 1638 Class 12, these true failsafe valves provide the option for reducing the sub-sea control module weight and cost, providing the customer with superior products for their application. With a focus on safety and reliability in subsea control, Bifold’s directional control valves maintain safety factors on pull in and drop out voltage as well as de latch pressure, throughout the pressure range, but also during long term cycling (in cycles) and long term static hold tests.

Our state of the art production facilities based in the UK allow our superior and innovative sub-sea valves to be subjected to extensive test programmes, these include:-

• Qualification in accordance with ISO 13628-6 • Endurance tested to in excess of 1 million cycles
• Corrosion testing in direct seawater immersion for 90 days and 50/50 seawater internally at 60°C
• Contamination resistance testing on class 8 fluid over 30,000 cycles without filter
• High and low temperature storage and function testing
• Hyperbaric function testing to 3500m
• Shock and Vibration testing

The Bifold sub-sea range includes Shear Plane Sealing directional control valves, shuttle valves, pilot operated valves (ball seated and slide), solenoid valves with a range of connector options, check valves, relief valves, pumps, intensifiers, special valve products and control pod products.


Valve World Expo Dusseldorf 2012 (November 2012)
 

Bifold Group returned to The Valve World exhibition in Dusseldorf, to introduce further additions to our already well established product range.

This included our new range of Medium Pressure Instrumentation Valves and Fittings and our NAMUR Mounted Solutions. Also introduced at the show was our revolutionary, interactive 3D configuration software, which was very well received. Also launched was the Bifold Valve World App which allowed visitors to view our product to scale in a new, interactive and innovative way using augmented reality.

It was a pleasure to see new and old faces. Our stand was extremely busy throughout the duration of the exhibition and proved to be our most successful show by far.


Bifold introduce the New Bifold Group Valve World FREE App (November 2012)
 

With Bifold you can submit bespoke bids faster and with greater clarity, obtain immediate 3D images and offer your clients reduced lead times.

Bifold has developed interactive 3D configuration software and manufacturing systems to create instantaneous custom designs including 3D CAD models, 2D drafts, Part numbers and descriptions and Bill of Materials.



• View scale 3D augmented reality in 1 minute
• Produce scale 3D printed prototype models in 1 day
• Deliver 316L stainless steel products within 1 week

Download the free Bifold Valve World App and view cLean Manufacturing™ at apps.bifold.co.uk for more details including how to download the App, available from mid November 2012.


Bifold have linked Safety with Performance to provide the widest range of relief valves for pneumatic & hydraulic applications (August 2012)
 

Bifold provide the widest range of relief valves for pneumatic and hydraulic instrument applications with pressures ranging from 7 to 1300 bar.

Our relief valves are suitable for safety applications. Many other relief valves of this type on the market, fail to perform the correct safety function required.

The Bifold pneumatic relief valves have a very high flow and low dead band. The relief valves are a safety device designed to match Bifold’s high flow filter regulators. The device will limit the over pressure to less than110% of the set point in the event of a filter regulator mis-operation. Some other relief valves on the market have insufficient flow to be used as a safety device in this application.

Bifold precision relief valves have very high sealing forces along with accurate and narrow dead bands allowing system design pressure to be reduced. Precision relief valves should be used in preference to sprung relief valves where there is a risk of vibration induced leakage or where dead bands are important to system performance. Sprung relief valves typically will have a narrow dead band when tested on a static dead weight tester but will have a much wider dead band under flowing


Bifold have linked Safety with Performance to provide Innovative and Reliable Ball and Needle Valve Solutions (August 2012)
 

Bifold has been manufacturing Ball and Needle Valve products for more than 20 years.

The products have all been designed to overcome the problems of traditional assemblies on primary isolation and venting duties.

Our new compact design range of Ball and Needle Valve products have been developed for low / medium pressure applications with an operating range from 1,000 psi / 70 bar up to 10,000 psi / 690 bar.

Constructed from UNS S31600 / S31603 Stainless Steel (alternative materials available), in compliance with NACE MR-01-75 as standard and with ¼” NPT up to 2” NPT within the range.

Our Ball Valve range is available as a single piece body design, reducing potential leak paths to the outside environment along with an anti-blow out stem and pressure energised stem seal which ensures seal integrity. The use of PEEK seat and stem seal materials allows operation over a wide temperature range from -20°C to +180°C, with alternative temperature range from -45°C to +225°C.

The unique design incorporates lower and consistent torque to operate and pressure tested in accordance with API 598 & BS EN 12266-1. Proof tested to 1.5 times of maximum working pressure as standard.

Our Needle Valve range incorporates dynamic sealing which eliminates the loss of seal integrity and reduces the risk of fugitive emissions along with non-wetted parts. A compact design offers a light weight body with smaller envelope, enabling closer mounting and reduction in the overall panel size.

Direct mount to the back plate is also standard which means that no panel cut-outs or spacers are required for vents and needle heads. The range also offers lower torque to operate – No need to mount on the back plate to counteract torque.


Bifold have developed sophisticated configurators to make valve selection effortless (June 2012)
 

With Bifold, you can use our unique online drag and drop Modular Manifold Configurator to design highly bespoke manifold systems effortlessly. The manifold can be designed from the circuit sequence down to the orientation of individual modules to your exact specification. Once designed an interactive 3D rendered model is immediately viewable online and an installation drawing, bill of materials and 3D CAD model are automatically emailed upon design verification from Bifold.

You can use our Valve Model Configurator to create the valve you require and download a bespoke configured datasheet with a single click. The 3D CAD model is then automatically emailed. The datasheet contains a tracking image which enables you to view the rendered image in real time, in augmented reality and to scale using the Bifold Model Viewer, available on the App Store for iPad and iPhone; and Google Play for android devices



1. Configure your product
2. View interactive 3D model online
3. Print bespoke data sheet or save to your system
4. Receive 3D CAD model by email
5. Contact sales department with your order

Download the free Bifold Model Viewer from the App Store or Google Play to view our products. Go to apps.bifold.co.uk for more details.

Offshore Europe Aberdeen 2011 (December 2011)
 

Bifold Group launched additions to their established product range. This included a highly distinctive design concept which allows Bifold's Solenoid Valve Housing to Freely Rotate 360°.

Also launched was their new range of Namur, HIPEX, Volume Boosters, Subsea products and Bifold Marshalsea Pump products.

It was a pleasure to see new and old faces in Aberdeen. Our stand was busy throughout the duration of the exhibition. The show proved to be very successful for us.


Bifold Introduce the New HIPEX High Speed Exhaust Valve Range (November 2011)
 

The new Bifold HIPEX Valve is a 2 way, normally closed directional control valve with a venting flow rate proportional to the differential pressure between the inlet and the pilot signal pressures. It is specifically designed for both modulating and "on-off" pilot pressure signals.

When the pilot pressure signal is equal to or above the main valve inlet pressure, the valve exhaust port remains closed.

This compact modular design is manufactured from 316L stainless steel or aluminium and is supplied with a pilot/valve seat assembly (patent pending). The Model HIPEX series is SIL 3 third party certified to IEC 61508 Parts 1 & 2.

Available in 1/2", 1" & 2" with various port sizes ranging from 1/4", 3/8" & 1/2" NPT sizes (1/2" HIPEX Valve) and 3/4" & 1" NPT sizes (1" HIPEX Valve). The 2" HIPEX Valve is supplied with 2" or 1 1/2" NPT port sizes. The valve operates on a 1:1 pilot pressure to valve pressure ratio at pressures between 2 and 10 bar g.

This specially designed valve is able to perform various functions:-


Partial Close Testing Function

When the pilot pressure falls below the main valve inlet pressure, the valve quickly exhausts the excess pressure until both the valve and pilot pressures are again equal, then the exhaust port closes.


Pressure Relief Function

If the main valve inlet pressure increases above the pilot pressure, the valve automatically exhausts the excess valve and the excess valve actuator pressure.

Applications include activation of control valves used in chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, pharmaceutical and food processing markets. This range has been designed and tested at Bifold and supplied for use with the majority of positioner/valve actuator manufacturers.


Bifold Releases Direct Mount NAMUR Solutions (November 2011)
 

Bifold Group introduces their range of direct mount solenoid valves, manifold and accessories for general valve actuator applications. These valves are available in 3/2 or 5/2 5/3 port configurations.

Compact in its design, the solenoid valve features a NAMUR mounting pattern according to VDI/VDE 3845 designed to mount to any NAMUR valve actuator thus reducing actuator response times, space requirements and also negating the need for a back plate. Installation costs are lower as the need for tubing, fittings, brackets and assembly labour are greatly reduced. All mounting screws and seals are included with the valve.

What differentiates the Bifold design to any other on the market is the unique patented mounting/spacer block which is free to rotate through 360°. This feature avoids the solenoid housing from coming into contact with the switch box and ensures the Filter Regulator remains upright at all times.

This range of products also includes the manifold option which incorporates the NAMUR interface kit based on the market leading ‘AXIS’ ® system, allowing the direct mounting of Filter Regulators, Check Valves, Flow Control Valves, Pressure Relief Valves and Manual Valves etc.

Our system will accommodate all valve actuators in any orientation = NO RESTRICTIONS. The unique multifunction rotating system includes inlet/exhaust Flow Control Valve and High Flow Quick Exhaust Valve and optional fully rotational Filter Regulator.

This robust design is manufactured from 316L stainless steel with an operating temperature range of -60°C to +180°C and worldwide approvals Ex d, Ex ia, Ex emb and explosion proof. This product range is available with the widest range of override options including (Auto Reset, Spring Return Manual Override, Stayput Manual Override, Manual Reset, Tamperproof Manual Latch and Latch Energised).

All our FP Solenoid valve assemblies have SIL 3 third party certification to IEC 61508.


High Flow Model VBP Series Volume Booster Delivers System Stability (November 2011)
 

Bifold announces the introduction of the model VBP series high flow Volume Booster for pneumatic and gas service. This patent pending unique product, manufactured from 316L stainless steel, performs efficiently with a high flow in both open and close rotation of the actuator. Competitor’s booster valves have a high output flow, but a low exhaust flow. In applications where a fast response time on modulating service, in combination with a fast shutdown time (ESD), is required, the VBP also eliminates the need for an additional poppet or Quick Exhaust Valve to achieve the required closing speeds. This results in reduced material and labour costs and simplifies positioned set up and control.

When used with a valve positioner/valve actuator, the VBP is designed to produce fast opening and closing times. This range is also available as a combined filter booster.

The range functions with a working pressure range of 2 to 10 bar g, with maximum inlet pressure of 20 bar g and operates at a working temperature of -20°C to +180°C. The design offers a choice of two sizes with port threads of 1/4”, 3/8”, 1/2”, 3/4”, 1” and 2” NPT which allow installation flexibility for easy hookup.

The extremely compact modular design eliminates the need for additional quick exhaust valves enabling reduced costs and installation time.

Improved system design offers a simple tubed system with ONE Bifold Filter Regulator and ONE Volume Booster. The advantages = faster response times and simple to install resulting in the lowest cost solution. Conventional systems require multiple Filter Regulators and multiple Volume Boosters, the disadvantages = slower response times and requiring balancing of the Filter Regulators.

A soft seat sealing design provides tight shut off to reduce costly air consumption. A bypass needle adjustment fitted as standard across the range eliminates system hunting and providing stability. It is manufactured from 316L stainless steel as standard.¬¬

Applications include activation of control valves used in chemical, petrochemical, oil and gas, pharmaceutical and food processing markets. This range has been designed and tested at Bifold and supplied for use with the majority of positioner/valve actuator manufacturers.


Valve World Expo Dusseldorf 2010 (November 2010)
 

Valve Specialists Bifold Group, returned to The Valve World exhibition in Dusseldorf to introduce further additions to our established product range. This included a new highly distinctive design concept which allows Bifold's Solenoid Valve Housing to Freely Rotate 360°, enabling easy cable layout and ease of connection wiring.

We also displayed our new range of Namur, Hipex and Volume Booster products. It was a pleasure to see new and old faces in Dusseldorf. The show proved very successful for us. The volume of visitors to the show far outstripped the numbers of 2008 which is a really encouraging sign and our stand was busy throughout the duration of the exhibition.


Middleton Based Bifold FluidPower has got the Winning Habit and is Hungry for more Success (December 2007)
 

The company, which makes high-tech valves for the oil and gas exploration sector, is in the running for the Manchester Evening News Business of the Year Awards in the turnover £10m to £25m category. The company, which employs 140 people at its headquarters on Greenside Way and in Somerset , is testament that not everything in the world has to be made in the Far East.

Its boss Gary Jacobson, 40, was this year crowned north west entrepreneur of the year. The accolade followed a secondary buy-out deal in April, which valued the company at £35m. In the last three years turnover at the company has more than doubled, from £7.5m to £15.1m

Bifold was founded in 1880 in Wigan as a supplier of valves for steamships and of miners lamps. The company supplies stainless steel control valves used on oil and gas rigs, at refineries and in pipelines. In seeking the award Mr Jacobson said the company has a strong track record of growing its sale, profits, increasing margins and innovation.

He said: "In the five years to August 31 last year, we have grown turnover by 201 per cent from £3.8m to £11.68m, increasing EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) from £190,000 to £2.43m. "For the year to August 31 this year, we are forecast to generate turnover and EBITDA of £15.1m and £3m respectively. Since 2001, Bifold has demonstrated significant growth, predominantly by expanding its product range."

He said the company's organic growth had been augmented by the acquisition last year of Marshalsea in Somerset, which will add around £3.4m to turnover.

Mr Jacobson said he and the management team are committed to driving the business forward and increasing profits.

Article taken from Manchester Evening News - 22 August 2007 by Chris Barry


Bosses of a Greater Manchester firm which makes valves for the oil and gas industry have increased their stake in a secondary buyout which values the business at £35m (April 2007)
 

The management team has spearheaded turnover growth at Bifold FluidPower from £3m to £15m in the past five years, partly fuelled by the acquisition of Marshalsea Hydraulics, based in Taunton, last April.

Now the team, led by managing director Gary Jacobson, may seek more targets, following a deal which provides an exit for Barclays Ventures, which backed a management buyout in 2002.

Bank of Scotland Corporate's integrated finance division has provided a debt and equity package for the deal and takes a minority stake. The transaction includes a facility to fund further acquisitions.

Bifold has 110 staff at its headquarters on the Greengate industrial estate, Middleton, and 36 employees in Somerset, as well as offices in Houston and Singapore. It was founded more than 100 years ago in Wigan as a supplier of valves for steamships and of miners' lamps. It merged with FluidPower, a business set up in Great Yarmouth, and moved to Middleton in 1997.

The group also includes MTS Precision, an engineering business. The company supplies stainless steel control valves used on oil and gas rigs, at refineries and in pipelines.

Bifold is one of the sector's fastest growing businesses. Mr Jacobson said today: "We have one of the most advanced manufacturing facilities in our industry and aim to offer market-leading products, quality, technical support and service."

Frank Summers, Bank of Scotland's director of integrated finance, said: "With an experienced management team boasting a proven track record, Bifold has a very strong position in a niche market that shows excellent growth prospects."

Advisers included a team at Manchester investment bank Altium, led by Simon Lord, and lawyers at Addleshaw Goddard and DLA Piper.

Article taken from Manchester Evening News 23 April 2007 by Kevin Feddy


 
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